Get creative! You want your swimming pool to fit your, your family’s, and your landscape’s personality. The overall size and shape is obviously the most noticeable feature of your pool. Do you like straight-edged pools? Or are you looking for something more natural looking? The shape of your pool really plays no part in the cost, so if you have ideas, let us know! If you’re unsure, we have staff members that can help you design your pools using Pool Studio™ — a top-of-the-line 3D Pool Design software.

If your pool's shape and size are considered the overall setting, then the individual features of your pool are the main characters! Features can include a beach entrance, rock designs, waterfalls, bubbling jets, deck jets, a slide, diving board/rock/platform, spa, vanishing edge, tile mosaics, etc. Additionally, we can even create features that are around the pool but not part of the pool itself — like a firepit, outdoor kitchen, and landscaping. Again, the options are limitless! You can request as few or as many features as you like.

Coping is essentially the finished edge of your swimming pool. The basic coping options are: flagstone style, bullnose, and safety grip. A flagstone-style coping is flat on top but with a slightly rough edge. It's great with the more natural-looking pools. Bullnose coping is the basic smooth finished style with a rounded edge while safety grip is almost identical except that it has a curve to it to allow easier grip if you're treading water near the edge or climbing out of your pool. Many colors and finishes are available. See some examples at a couple of our sources: Noble Tile Supply & National Pool Tile Group.

The finish determines the overall color and style of the interior walls of your pool. You could go with a darker, more muted finish that gives your pool a natural pond or lake color, or a bright, reflective finish that gives your pool that beautitul crystal blue look. We've got quite a few options for finishes as well. Get inspired and get some ideas at one of our supplier's sample page: National Pool Tile Group - Finishes.

We have a vast array of tiles and styles of tiles to choose from including Glazed, solid colors, patterned, quartzite, and simulated stone to just name a few. Typically, the main tile work for your pool is along the waterline just below the coping. The tiles define your pool's interior shape and allow for easier cleaning at the waterline. You may also want to incorporate tile work into the bottom of your pool to add character and details, such as mosaic pictures or designs. Check out a sampling of the many types and styles of tile available here: National Pool Tile Group - Tiles & Noble Tile Supply.

Your finished deck is a major feature that can greatly enhance the entire look and functionality of your swimming pool. Well, Sun-Ray Pools can certainly build your deck as well. Whether you choose a traditional wood deck, a stone deck or patio, or a mix of all three, we can handle it. We've built tiered decks with steps, footbridges, stone patios, you name it! Extend your indoors to the outdoors and enjoy a place to relax when taking a break from your pool.

One of the last things to consider is the general landscaping surrounding your pool. Not only does Sun-Ray Pools build swimming pools, features, and decks, but we've also been known to plant a tree or two! We can most certainly handle landscaping your surrounding poo! area. Part of the pool planning process can include your landscaping needs so that you have a clear visual understanding of what your swimming pool and area will look like when it's finished. Great landscaping can truly turn your pool and backyard into your own vacation oasis!

After deciding on your swimming pool's size and shape, what features you'd like to have, your deck, and landscaping you can consider some other great additions to your pool area. At Sun-Ray Pools, we can plan and build additions such as a fire pit, outdoor fireplace, an outdoor kitchen, or other amenities you may want near your pool.