S pring 2024 By Mallory Gleich n other parts of the country, it would feel strange to say “getting ready for pool season” in March – but in Phoenix, the start of spring means the start of pulling out the chairs, tubes, noodles and floaties from storage: pool season is upon us. In that spirit, Arcadia News decided to dig into the trends surrounding a backyard oasis and what families are doing to update the pools in their backyards. One of the most common trends we found was new automation systems. These systems connect to apps like Google and Alexa to control waterfalls, colored pool lights, spa heaters, and adjustable speed pumps. Some systems can monitor, in real- time, a pool’s pH and sanitizer levels. Energy efficiency is also on the rise. Whether it’s saving electricity or water, the government is making moves to ensure that manufacturers are producing environmentally friendly products. Pool owners are opting for energy-efficient pool equipment such as variable-speed pumps, LED lighting and solar-powered heaters. These options decrease energy consumption and cost while reducing environmental impact. Grace Dunlop is the marketing director of Presidential Pools, a company that’s been around for over 30 years. The founder, Tim Murphy, grew up cleaning pools and started his own business as a teen. Dunlop said one of the most popular additions are fire features around or near a pool, like fire pots/bowls or fireplaces. Fire bowls function as accent pieces that blend two elements to create a dramatic effect – some come with lights to really make the water pop. These fire bowls can also be connected to your automation system for easy operation. “Wet edge pool designs are another popular trend that will continue in 2024,” Dunlop said. Also known as infinity or vanishing edge, this design creates the illusion that the water continues infinitely to the horizon by having one or more edges appear to blend with the surrounding landscape. Another innovation is the improved efficiency of in-floor pool cleaning systems. Set into the pool’s infrastructure, the systems distribute water in a pattern across the pool floor to clean up dirt and debris and improve water circulation. “Other ongoing trends include water sheers – a type of waterfall feature, darker pool interior finishes, and baja shelves, which are almost a given with every pool now,” Dunlop said. Some of the things that are losing popularity, according to Dunlop, are traditional artificial boulder grottos and waterfalls. “Most customers want a modern version of this that is not built with boulders,” she said. “As for the trends, we consider the ‘simple rectangle’ the Arcadia’s poolside trends for 2024 Take a dip Take a dip ,, take a dive take a dive I I Take a dip , take a dive PHOTOS COURTESY OF GRACE DUNLOP

15 most popular. The freeform tropical lagoon vibe doesn’t seem to be what homeowners want anymore.” Other trends on their way out are traditional chlorine pools, as pool owners are looking into saltwater systems, UV-C sanitation, and natural filtration systems. Fiberglass or plastic pool slides – once known as the place to be when summer hits – are declining in popularity as well, most notably for safety concerns and aesthetic appeal. Advancements in technology, sustainability, and design encourage pool owners to create – and update – their perfect outdoor oasis. Backyard pool trends are constantly changing, but some current ones include baja shelves, fi re bowls and waterfall features.