—Superb style tactics beyond the rock waterfall 

If you are building a gunite swimming pool and prefer a woodsy or countryside-style aesthetic, a number of appealing features and elements are available to help achieve that look.

From tanning ledges to swim-up bars, adding style and shade to your pool & spa

Swimming pools and patio umbrellas make great backyard companions.

When you see one, you often find the other. After all, when the temperature soars, having a spot for retreating from the beating sun makes outdoor living more comfortable.

Your backyard should feel like a retreat, not a fishbowl. Whether you're swimming laps, relaxing in a spa, or grilling with family, it's hard to fully unwind when neighbors have a clear view into your space.

The good news: there are plenty of ways to add privacy to a pool, patio, or outdoor living area, at almost any budget. This guide covers the most effective options, from landscaping and fencing to shade structures and architectural features, so you can choose what works for your property.

—Going small for big benefits with compact swimming pools 

What is a plunge pool?

Is it different from a cocktail pool or a dipping pool?

And how are these three kinds of compact swimming pools different from a design known as a spool?

—Aka: rain walls, water curtains, or rain descents

When would you actually want rain to come down on your swimming pool?

If the falling “rain” is from a tall, stunning water feature that enhances your pool’s beauty and outdoor ambiance.

—Achieving better looks, versatility, and functionality for backyard leisure

In addition to providing a solution to a sloping property or disparate elevation between the house and yard, a deck with two or more tiers around a swimming pool delivers excellent functionality, an attractive outdoor space, and clearer “zoning” for various backyard activities.

A sun shelf (also called a tanning ledge or Baja bench) is a shallow platform built inside your pool where you can lounge in just 6 to 9 inches of water. It sounds simple, but it tends to become the most-used feature in the entire pool. Sun shelves reach their full potential in a custom concrete (gunite or shotcrete) pool, where shape, size, and finish can all be tailored to your space. Here is what you need to know before adding one to yours.