A few things to consider,
#1 Spa size, 7X7 is small, you may be a family that only wants to enjoy it every so often and it’s more of a after thought but if you do like using it and with more than a few people in it at a time it needs to be bigger or you will be elbow to elbow. Also the pool is 50‘ long and a 7’ long spa is going to look out of place even though it at water line.
#2 If you are going to have a pool sweep be aware that it is going to get stuck on your barstool seats more than not. I would have the dedicated line installed 1/3 distance from the opposite side of the stools.
#3 The pool is starting off at 4’ deep, is this something you requested or have seen and liked? 3 1/2‘ is standard and works really well with small kids.
#4 Have more than 2 umbrella sleves so you can adjust locations as the sun moves during the day.
#5 What depth is the reef step? Depending on how you intend to use it (sitting or lounging) will determine its best depth.
Hope this helps, Ray
Thanks so much Ray, great advice and things I certainly didn't think of.
#1 On the spa - We will likely use it often, and am thinking it needs to fit ~6 people comfortably. What size would you suggest? Does it need to be square or can it be rectangular (so it doesn't take up too much of the pool width)? I wanted to have the spa close to the covered patio so the TV was visible from the spa (unfortunately the covered patio brick columns block the view from the reef step) so that's made it a bit difficult to figure out size and where to put it. Also, I plan on lap swimming as well, so I am trying to limit how much of the pool width it takes up.
#2 Bar stools - I didn't think of the pool sweep, good point! I could also move the reef step to the right of the spa (no barstools at all), keep the steps where they are (just facing North instead of West), make the spa / reef step / stairs the same width (provided they don't take up too much of the pool width) and I would get more length for laps. Would love to hear your thoughts!
#3 Our kids (as well as most kids in our family / friends circle) are pre-teens, all good swimmers, so we opted for 4 ft on the shallow end for more arm room for laps. The 8 ft side will be for kids (and kids at heart) to jump in, with a jump wall (not too tall - maybe 3 ft?) on the west side of the pool (considered a diving board but got turned off once I found out it could cause issues getting liability insurance)
#4 More umbrella sleeves! I didn't think of that - my yard is pointing North so it gets sun all day. I was debating if a pergola was worth installing but I like having the option of sun vs. no sun.
#5 Reef steps - mostly for lounging by the pool (I'm thinking curved pool loungers), reading a book, umbrella drink in hand. We might have the occasional younger kid splish splashing with their parents nearby, but mostly lounging. What depth would you suggest? Any thoughts on bubblers (my initial thoughts were no, but open to suggestions)
Appreciate your input!
Adriana
