Rock on. Stone versatile accent for pools

Frank Lloyd Wright, noted as one of America’s most influential architects, popularized what he described as organic architecture: design that evolves and blends with the environment. Wright’s influence continues to inspire today with the use of stone and rock on the interior and exterior of homes and in outdoor settings. The rugged terrain of Southern Nevada lends itself well to incorporating this type of architecture.

Rock brings an earthy, harmonious character to the pool and outdoor dwelling. Commonly used in tropical design, rock has also found its way into more sophisticated styles and what I call “casual contemporary.”

Stone and rock is not limited to a mound of boulders stacked to form a waterfall. Stone becomes a versatile accent to the pool replacing portions of tile, interior finish and deck surfaces.

There are many different applications to integrate rock in, out and around the pool — on dam walls, wet decks, ledges, steps, raised bond beams, equipment enclosures, cabanas, firepits, benches, swim-up bars, tables, decking, landscape walls, coping, pillars and columns.

Merging the home’s architecture with the backyard setting provides a smooth transition from the house to outdoors. The fashionable stacked stone prevalent on Las Vegas homes can easily be incorporated in the pool area.

Intermixing a combination of different rock styles and formations with two to four materials such as boulders, field stone and ledger stone will add color, dimension, depth, texture and symmetry.

Creating a natural ambience with rock and stone is truly an art form. A well-trained and talented rock artisan will incorporate rock work in multiple areas, place rocks to penetrate into the water and set the stones to minimize grout joints for a tight, consistent look.

Avoid using simulated architectural rock in submerged areas or in areas with constant water flow. Over time, the chemically treated pool water will bleach out stains and dyes typically used to color artificial rock. In contrast, natural stone needs little care, is durable and can be easily cleaned with a wire brush.

Justin Dougherty, owner of Rockworks Vegas, has been crafting rock features for pools and spas for 15 years.

“Waterfalls, caves, slides and grottoes are the most requested rock elements,” states Dougherty. “However, using rocks to accent pools has gained in popularity over the years.”

Rock artisans such as Dougherty have a keen eye for selecting the perfect rock pieces to complement a design. Dougherty insists that not all rock is suited for the pool and spa.

“Just because a rock can be used in landscaping doesn’t mean it can be used in a water element,” he explains. “Pool designers will collaborate with the rock artisan to advise clients on the best design and rock types to achieve a specific goal and look.”

Joe Vassallo is the president of Paragon Pools, as well as a member of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals, a certified building professional and a representative of the APSP National Builders Council, Region XI. Send questions or suggestions for column ideas regarding pools and spas to him at jvassallo@paragonpools.net or 251-0500.