It goes without saying that a pool in the yard gives a vacation vibe to the outdoor spaces. Children and friends love it. August is a good time to prepare this kind of purchase, plan the landscaping and perhaps even have a chance to enjoy it in the fall.

A pool project has aesthetic, practical and legal elements that should not be underestimated. First, it’s crucially important to find out about municipal standards in effect. It’s also a good idea to do some research, looking for inspiration on the web that can be turned over to the garden designer or landscape architect. This person will put things together and suggest everything from the best placement  to the view from the deck or the house, so that with just one look, you can see what’s happening in the pool.

The whole pool-fencing combination is highly regulated – including basement windows that lock from the inside or a fence that separates the windows from the pool – in fact, so well that the part of the house beside the pool is sometimes completely fenced. The fence gates must also close automatically.

A glass fence or one of wrought iron provides good visibility. The more economical chain-link fence painted black and camouflaged by a hedge is another option. Wood fences are recommended to create privacy between the pool and the neighbours. Combinations of the above can also work well.

A rectangular pool, with a dark bottom, provides an impression of depth that is popular. Made of concrete, with an antiskid surface in natural stone or concrete pavers, it lasts a long time. Feet are happy when the surface is a pale colour, and knees tend to like a rounded, non-chiseled, coping.

Vegetation such as ferns, including Yucca and polygonum (some species of knotweed), as well as humidity-resistant shrubs, work well with a pool. Avoid coniferous trees and shrubs and limit the deciduous ones. You’re better off creating shade with a pergola or some kind of hanging fabric sail or parasol.

Enjoy your pool party!!