I'm terrible at visualizing the real life outcome of color and design choices. I know what I like when I see something finished, but I have no idea from using samples. Now that I've lived with my glass tile for 3 years, I'm glad I didn't get a darker tile. I believe most look darker once installed unless they have constant direct sunlight.
Tile: The glass tile will be used for accents but not waterline tile, right? I would have a hard time recommending Light Streams glass tile. I was thrilled in the beginning, but after seeing all the less expensive tiles available locally, the overall look is just as stunning. Piece by piece there is a difference, but I don't believe it's worth the price. Also, Lightstreams was difficult to deal with last summer and the one before - can't speak about this summer. Look at the other local tile companies in your area.
I'm terrible at visualizing the real life outcome of color and design choices. I know what I like when I see something finished, but I have no idea from using samples. Now that I've lived with my glass tile for 3 years, I'm glad I didn't get a darker tile. I believe most look darker once installed unless they have constant direct sunlight. A lighter glass color would have looked better with my pool.
I like your idea of having the water color and waterline tile blend (now it sounds like the glass tile will be the waterline tile along with the other accents).
Water color: Soooooo very hard to decide, and then once I was in the pool, I wondered why I worried so much about it! Lol!!!! The reason for that? Because I realized how much the color changes throughout the day and depending on the sky, clouds, etc. It still amazes me. My best suggestions for selecting a color of finish are:
1. decide how much green, teal, or aqua you like. If you don't want any of those color tints, then watch the color of the pebbles on the sample. Any tans, beige's, browns, etc are going to give you a green hint - either all the time or at some times. And it all depends on the surroundings to your pool - plants, trees, decking, houses, sunlight, etc.
2. decide if you want a light, medium, or dark pool. There are pros and cons to all. Ask questions or do some research on TFP.
3. You still haven't decided???? Roll the dice and then get some sleep!!!! The colors are going to change all day anyway, so get close, and you'll be happy!
Coping: I really like your choice, and I've heard that stone is relatively cool compared to concrete products (poured, pavers).
Grass: Hahaha! I had to save a patch for my granddog Willy (see my avatar) when he comes to visit from Oregon. Oh, he brings my 34 yo son with him when he visits and his 2 yo adopted brother, Chance (another dog).
Depth: This is YOUR pool!!!! You're not the first to want/need a shallow pool, and you won't be the last!!! As long as you can do what you want in the pool (ie, tread water for exercise, dive for rings, etc), and hubby likes those depths, then it's perfect for you!!! That's all that matters! I swam in a pool one summer built for a family whose mom couldn't swim. So all the sides of the pool floor were like 3.5 or 4 feet deep with a small deep end of 6 feet so she could do 'bicycle legs' without bumping her feet. She was about 5'2", so little taller than you. It was a lovely pool. I enjoyed it a lot.
Now! Waiting for the Big Dig on Friday!!!!!! I can't wait! Pool fun, here we come!!!
). I don't recommend a dark grout and wouldn't even with dark glass tile (although I wouldn't go very light). I have places where the grout looks white - not sure if it's a build up or what. I think it's obvious mostly to me. If my grout had been very dark, those places would stand out more. It could be my water or the installation of the tile and water has gotten behind.