So you want to build a pool in Charleston? Read this first.
Living in the Lowcountry means embracing hot and humid summers, and to help beat the heat, many of our clients choose to include a pool in their custom home plans. A pool can transform your outdoor space into a private retreat, but just like the rest of the custom home building process, it comes with a lot of options and considerations. As a premier custom home and pool builder in Charleston, we’ve helped numerous clients navigate the process of honing in on the right location, design, and features for their pools. If you’re planning to include a pool in your new custom home build or are looking to transform your current backyard with a pool addition, consider these tips.
Who Is the Pool For and How Will It Be Used?
Think about who’s going to be splashing around in your new pool. Is it for your kids or grandkids and their friends to burn off energy during summer break? Or are you picturing quiet evenings with your partner, sipping cocktails by the water? Maybe you’re an avid swimmer looking for a space to do laps. The answers to these questions shape everything from the pool’s size to its depth and design, and offer a good starting point for the right type of pool for you.
For families with young kids, safety is a top priority. You might want a shallow end for wading or a gradual slope for easy entry. If the pool is for entertaining, consider a larger design with space for floating loungers or a built-in seating area. For fitness enthusiasts, a longer, narrower pool for laps might be ideal. At Structures | Alair, we’ve seen and built it all, and we’ll work with you to design a pool that fits your lifestyle.
What Features Are Important to You?
Once you’ve nailed down the pool’s purpose, it’s time to get creative with features. This is where your pool starts to reflect your personality. Maybe you want a spa-like vibe with a hot tub and cascading waterfalls? Or perhaps you want to maximize space and optimize for depth and square footage. Lighting is another game-changer—think underwater LEDs for nighttime swims or soft perimeter lights for a cozy ambiance. Don’t overlook practical features either. Automatic pool covers offer a low-maintenance option for keeping debris out and maintaining water temperature. Heating systems can extend your swimming season, especially in Charleston’s mild winters. And for eco-conscious considerations, energy-efficient pumps and filtration systems can reduce your environmental footprint. As your custom home and pool builder in Charleston, we’ll guide you through the options to balance aesthetics, functionality, and budget.
How Will Your Pool Integrate with Your Architectural Design?
A pool isn’t just a standalone feature; it’s part of your home’s overall aesthetic. Integrating your pool into your architectural design and landscaping flow will add to the wow-factor of your home. Our team specializes in creating seamless transitions between your indoor and outdoor spaces. Your pool should feel like a natural extension of your home, whether you’re in a modern coastal bungalow or a traditional Lowcountry estate. Will your pool be installed at grade? Is your lot and home design better suited for an elevated pool deck? We walk you through structural considerations and costs that can then help determine other architectural features of your space.
Consider how your pool will interact with your landscape. A well-placed pool can enhance your views, like framing a glimpse of the marsh or complementing a lush backyard garden. Decking materials matter too, whether you opt for natural stone for a timeless look or composite decking for low maintenance. We also recommend tying in architectural details, like matching the pool’s tile work to your home’s exterior or incorporating a pergola that echoes your home’s roofline. As experts in pool builders in Charleston, we consider every detail, from sightlines to privacy, ensuring your pool feels like it was always meant to be there.
Other Common Questions to Consider
Beyond these core themes, there are a few other FAQs we hear often.
1. How much does a custom pool cost?
Like the rest of your custom home selections, pools can range from modest to luxurious. When working through the considerations above, we’ll help you prioritize features to work within your financial plan and will discuss how to value engineer your pool to best fit your needs.
2. Are there any restrictions on pools in my neighborhood?
Permits and regulations are certainly a factor, especially in Charleston, where local codes and HOA rules can come into play. Having built pools across the Lowcountry and throughout many of Charleston’s sought after neighborhoods, we are well versed in the logistics and handle the red tape so you don’t have to.
3. How much maintenance is involved?
Maintenance is also a key factor, especially for clients who many not be living in their Charleston home year round. However, modern pools are easier to care for than ever, and by knowing your maintenance preferences up front, we can develop a plan to make pool care as seamless as you need it to be.
4. When is the best time to build a pool?
Pool construction typically takes several months, depending on the complexity. Planning your project during the off-season can sometimes save time. We’ll work with you to determine the timing that works best with your goals.
Ready to Dive In?
A pool is often a must-have feature in Charleston and there’s nothing quite like being able to come back from a run, a day at the beach, a ride on the boat, or shopping downtown and being able to head straight to your backyard retreat to cool off. Building a pool is an exciting journey, and getting the details right makes all the difference. If you’d just starting to navigate those waters, reach out and we’d be glad to discuss.