The first step is a meeting with the new client. In this initial meeting, Curtis searches for the clients’ expectations, along with their greatest hopes and dreams for their backyard. Beyond that, though, he finds out about their hobbies and favorite places. His goal is to create a backyard experience that will take them away from their backyard and into a world of their dreams. He begins thinking of themes and ideas based on what he has found out about the clients.
The next step is to look at the space and define any special needs. He surveys the area and determines if and where he will need to build a retaining wall, how best to fit the swimming pool in the area available, and space for additional elements like fire pits or pool houses. Now the ideas are really starting to take shape for Curtis, and he can start to imagine what the backyard will look like.
The third step is designing. This is the stage when Curtis begins to sketch, creating a tangible design for the swimming pool. The theme has been settled and the pool is really beginning to be visualized. When the drawing is complete, the client has an opportunity to see it and give feedback. Clients are encouraged to remember that the drawing is not final, and that there is much they cannot tell by the picture. It can be difficult for a man like Curtis, who designs in three dimensions in his head, to transfer his vision onto paper.
Now the building begins. Curtis keeps an open mind, encouraging his clients to do the same, throughout the design and construction process. He is always on the lookout for materials that will speak into the design of the swimming pool, creating a one-of-a-kind backyard experience. The clients are involved each step of the way, to whatever extent they wish to be. One client might choose to give Curtis complete artistic control, while another might choose to be involved in each decision made, or anything between the two.
Customers have commented on the unique design and construction process Curtis uses. “I didn’t really know what they meant when they said it was ‘organic,’” one client remarked, “but after walking through this process with Al, I get it.” It is hard to explain or understand without witnessing it, but the results speak for themselves: Curtis consistently creates extraordinary swimming pools.
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Al Curtis is the designer and builder for Legendary Escapes Pools. He has pioneered the hybrid swimming pool, and is known for his unique and innovative custom swimming pools. If you are interested in building a new swimming pool, you can contact him or a competent member of his team by phone (248-478-4978), email (pools@legendaryescapes.com), or online (www.legendaryescapes.com).