Opinions on this 16x36 sport pool surround please

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eoc1212

New member
Jan 7, 2025
3
Los Angeles
Hi… I’m in So Cal building a new 16x36 ingroumd gunite pool. We love the modern look of large cement blocks with river rock between them. So our designer has specified large concrete pavers with 4” strips to be filled with “Del rio gravel.” We have a 6 and a 13yo girl (most of our friends have kids 3-6yo) and are now thinking that large pavers with river rock, or even grass, may be a tripping hazard or just uncomfortable. As you can see it’s around the entire pool.

Does anyone with kids and this type of pool surround have any love it or hate it opinions? Any other considerations to this type of pool surround regarding maintenance or anything else we may not be thinking of???

I added some pics of what I imagine it’ll look like.

Much appreciated!
Edwin
So Cal
 

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They look like great rocks for skipping! That aside, although the aesthetics can look nice, I prefer a solid surface for functionality.

Also consider those with (now or in the future) mobility issues and how comfortable they would feel walking around the pool on it.

I presume with little rain that weeds won't be an issue. Here weeds always find a way to grow.
 
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The only look similar to that which I've seen that may be practical is to have artificial turf installed in those channels. Though I've often wondered, for those who have turf by the pool, does the rubber infill material, which allows the turf to remain upright and not get matted, make its way into the pool?
 
Your "safest" bet is always a solid surface such as brushed concrete. Even pavers have spots of unevenness. That being said, the kids will learn pretty quick how to walk around the stones that are installed. Build the pool for your and what you like. The kids will be fine.
 
Cost would certainly increase with this thought, however I service a Grecian style pool with a similar deck construction. The difference being the ornamental rocks were actually permanently set in a bed of mortar/grout. In this installation thinner stones were used and they were set on their edge creating a nice aethstetic. You could have your builder install the rocks as indicated in the picture in a mortar bed and you’ll get the same look without the downsides of weeds and “rock skipping” temptation from little pool users.
 
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