Project Team: Aquatic Glazing; Excel Geothermal; McDaniel Custom Design; Mosaicist, Inc.; Watershape Consulting; Westside Pools & Service, Inc. Photos by Riley V Photography.
When thoughtful design meets decades of building experience, engineering innovation, and artisanal craftsmanship, the results can be breathtaking. Such is the case with a recently completed palatial pool build in Fort Worth, Texas. Designed by Kyle McDaniel of McDaniel Custom Design, constructed by Guy Wood of Westside Pools & Service, Inc., engineered by Dave Peterson of Watershapes Consulting, and tile mosaic design and installation by Ray Corral of Mosaicist, Inc. This project is a testament to expert craftsmanship and the power of collaboration.
Transforming a Challenging Landscape into an Architectural Marvel
When the client initially engaged McDaniel Custom Design about their project, they encouraged Kyle to use his artistic license. Their direction was sparse outside of maintaining the stunning vista of the lake below and downtown Fort Worth beyond. The client’s only additional request was a “75’ long pool… for lap swimming! The natural grade presented Kyle both a challenge and opportunity. “My hope was to provide a palatial pool for a palatial home. Capitalizing on the inherent drama of the existing terrain was goal number one. Maintaining a constant “wet” line of sight from the living room to the vanishing edge was second,” he notes.
Overcoming Construction Challenges: Expertise in Action
Taking this vision from design to reality was the task of Guy Wood. Four decades of pool construction experience was the critical lynch pin for this entire project. Guy’s extensive knowledge base, construction acumen, and patient determination proved to be “guiding force” that would ensure this client’s dream was realized. Adds Guy,” I was excited about the challenge of such a large-scale project. Putting all the pieces together in a way that ensured the highest of construction standards was paramount. Diligent management of the details was the difference between success and failure.”
A Structural Feat: Building on a 13-Foot Elevation Change
One of the most significant challenges of this build was the steep elevation change of approximately 13 feet from the main house to the lower deck area. Ensuring structural integrity required the expertise of Dave Peterson at Watershape Consulting in San Diego, California. The pool’s construction incorporated heavily reinforced concrete piers and beams to support the massive 75,000-gallon water volume. Poured-in-place concrete and wet shotcrete were used to form the walls and key features, such as the integrated spa, ensuring durability and longevity.
State-of-the-Art Mechanical System
A pool of this scale required an advanced mechanical system to maintain water quality and operational efficiency. Trade partner Pentair Pool supplied top-tier equipment, including:
- An in-floor cleaning system with 85 cleaning heads, seamlessly integrated into the custom mosaic colors and installation by Ray Corral and his team at Mosaicist, Inc.
- A 400-square-foot underground mechanical room housing four filtration systems, two high-efficiency gas heaters, and six variable-speed pumps.
- An IntelliCenter automation system to manage the various pool auxiliaries, ensuring effortless operation.
Exquisite Mosaic Tilework
A defining visual element of this pool is the stunning mosaic tilework crafted by Ray Corral and his team at Mosaicist, Inc. Known for their intricate and artistic designs, Corral’s mosaics add a layer of elegance and refinement to the pool’s interior.
The delicate interplay of colors and patterns enhances the luxurious aesthetic, seamlessly integrating with the overall design. Each tile was meticulously placed to ensure continuity and harmony, making the pool a true work of art.
Innovative Geothermal Heating and Cooling
Incorporating sustainable technology, this pool features a geothermal heating and cooling system sourced from Roy Schar at Excel Geothermal in Dallas. Utilizing 30 wells drilled 300 feet deep, the system leverages the stable temperature of the earth’s crust to regulate the pool’s water temperature efficiently. In winter, heat is drawn from the earth to warm the pool, while in summer, excess heat is transferred back underground, providing an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution to year-round comfort.
Striking Acrylic Panel Design
One of the standout design elements of this pool is its stunning 55-foot-long edge wall, incorporating three large acrylic panels. The centerpiece is an impressive 30-foot-long panel flanked by two stone columns, each adorned with fire and water bowls. This custom feature by Aquatic Glazing enhances the pool’s visual appeal and creates a seamless connection between water and landscape.
Custom Finishes and Water Features
Attention to detail was paramount in selecting high-quality materials and finishes:
- Custom-Fabricated Coping: Texas Lueders limestone, crafted with a smooth bullnose edge to accentuate the pool’s sophisticated aesthetic.
- Lighted Cascade Bubblers and Spillways: Strategically placed in the sun ledge and spa area, these features include custom-made copper spillways from Oreq Corporation, adding dynamic movement and ambiance.
- Advanced LED Lighting: A total of 28 small, color-changing LED lights illuminate the pool, spa, and catch basin, enhancing the nighttime atmosphere.
- Light Walnut Travertine Decking: Installed over a steel-reinforced concrete deck, this material ensures durability while maintaining a luxurious look and feel.
- Underwater Sound System: While yet to be installed, the pool has been prepped for an advanced underwater speaker system, further elevating the entertainment experience.
A Pool That Redefines Luxury Outdoor Living
This project showcases how thoughtful design, dedicated management, innovative engineering and technology, and world-class craftsmanship can come together to create an unparalleled outdoor living experience. While the final landscaping is still in progress, this pool already stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and a commitment to excellence.
For those looking to push the boundaries of luxury pool design, this build serves as an inspiring example of what is possible when expertise and vision align.
