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Plan pool features first, not last. When you decide on fountains, custom depth zones, step geometry, in-pool stools, and lounging shelves early, you lock in plumbing, structure, elevations, and lighting with intention. This approach prevents change orders, protects timelines, and aligns the way people will actually use your pool–swim, sit, talk, and relax–every day of the year.
Fountains anchor the scene and set the mood. A sculptural bowl, architectural scupper, or wide sheer descent adds motion and sound while masking neighborhood noise. Scale the element to your waterline and main sightlines from the house so it reads as a designed focal point rather than an afterthought.
Plus, you can custom fountains to your liking. Tune the sound with drop height and nozzle width: lower, wider sheets create a soft hush for conversation; taller, narrower spills add lively sparkle near play zones.
Finally, integrate discreet LED lighting under the fall line so evenings feel luxurious without glare. Automation helps you schedule run times for ambiance without excess evaporation.
Depth drives comfort, safety, and energy costs. At Thunderbird Pools & Spas, we offer gentle transitions in the zones you prefer. Placing a rest bench or corner seat at depth changes, and wash those zones with targeted lighting so evening swims stay intuitive.
Our gallery will show you all the examples of depth including in-pool spas and additional features that we have worked in before through Arizona, including Phoenix, Scottsdale, Surprise, Gilbert, Queen Creek, and more!
Comfort starts the moment you step in, which is why thoughtful entry steps are one of the most important pool features to get right. Choose wide, welcoming steps that feel natural underfoot and guide guests into the water without hesitation. You can keep them straight for a modern look, curve them for a softer feel, or add a corner landing that doubles as a perch for quick chats.
Additionally, a wraparound bench along a feature wall creates an “on-the-water sofa” for effortless lounging without crowding the sun shelf, while integrated seating by a fountain or spillway turns everyday moments into a mini–resort experience. For peace of mind, use slip-resistant textures and a subtle contrasting edge so each tread stands out–even at dusk–and consider a low-profile grab rail in a matching finish to make entry easy for everyone.
In short, when you treat steps as foundational pool features, they welcome every age and ability, elevate the look, and make every swim feel effortless.
In-pool stools turn the water into a casual hangout, and they’re one of those pool features guests gravitate to without thinking. Picture smooth, rounded seats where you can linger with a drink, a comfy spot to rest your feet, and a curved counter aimed at the best view–maybe the fountain’s shimmer, the sunset, or the sizzle from the outdoor kitchen. Keep the look cohesive by matching the stool tops to your waterline tile, and choose finishes that wipe clean so the space stays beautiful with minimal effort.
In the end, these simple additions spark easy conversation, elevate comfort, and make your pool features the place everyone wants to gather.
Shallow lounging shelves bring that resort vibe home, letting you stretch out, cool off, and stay part of the conversation without leaving the water. Think of a ledge roomy enough for a pair of chaises, an umbrella sleeve for easy shade, and maybe a soft bubbler for gentle movement and daytime sparkle.
Keep it comfortable and low-maintenance with a light, slip-resistant finish that stays cooler in the sun and helps the water sweep away stray leaves. In the end, this simple pool feature invites slow mornings, kid-friendly play, and sunset lounging–no itinerary required.
Think in experiences, not parts. Enter on wide, confident steps that face your main seating area. Pause on the tanning ledge under an umbrella while kids play in shallow water. Drift to the in-pool stools for snacks and conversation, oriented to the fountain and sunset. In the background, a centered bowl or sheer descent sets the tone with a gentle soundtrack and nighttime sparkle. Beneath it all, smart hydraulics push water across shelves and around stools, while scene-based lighting shifts from “Family Swim” to “Evening Entertaining” with a tap. The result is a cohesive composition of pool features that earns its keep every single day.
Thunderbird Pools & Spas helps you design the pool and spa of your dreams! With plenty of custom features to choose from, we give you an award-winning pool that you can enjoy all day!
Are fountains too loud for conversation?
No. You tune sound with drop height and nozzle width; wide, low sheets stay calm near conversation zones.
What depth works for families?
Most families love a big 3'–3.5' play platform and a ~4' activity lane.
Do in-pool stools complicate maintenance?
Not when you round edges, use smooth caps, and direct returns to sweep debris away from the bar zone.
How deep should a tanning ledge be?
Between 6 and 12 inches; many homeowners prefer 8 inches for cooling comfort with chaise lounges.
Thunderbird Pools & Spas can create the pool of your dreams and completely transform your backyard into a magical paradise!
If you’ve been searching for “pool builders near me,” let your search end with Thunderbird Pools & Spas. Our team is here to guide you from concept to cannonball with professionalism, transparency, and pride in every project.
Contact us today or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok to get inspired. Let's bring your backyard vision to life!