Well, I will sign a contract this week. I narrowed the 6 pool builders down to two and I am doing final negotiations with them today. It has been a lot more difficult then I predicted getting these guys down on price (I am usually good at getting a deal). I was thinking the economy would play in my favor but all the pool builders are doing great right now in this area. They are even being selective on who they will build for.
We decided not to go with the hot tub. Below is what I think is our final design.
Very cool!
Make sure where the waterfalls are that they make a
sharp lip. The waterfalls need a sharp lip (no leading edge) because otherwise the water tends to follow the stone and it makes the waterfall uneven. If the lip is sharp the water flows out smoothly and clean looking.
If you still want a hottub, I'd put a small one on that square area closest to me from the artists rendering... you could have it slightly raised and have the overflow flow into the pool. It creates a pretty cool effect.
Also, where are they putting the drains?
How are you going to light it (important!!!!)?
Also, bring the stone all the way around the pool. The grass will die in that area where the pool is next to the grass. Or do some pebbles/small stones with landscaping there, with some tough plants. Grass will die though.