Wonderful waterscapes
Since we live in the desert it seems only natural that when the time comes to create the perfect backyard, water will somehow be involved.
Pools and spas are often the focal point of backyard designs. And though they may occupy a large percentage of the space, they are only one element of outdoor living.
That lifestyle and its limitless possibilities are explored in the new book “The Al Fresco Life: Pools, Spas, Bars and Kitchens.” The book is a way to help area residents figure out how to make the most of their own yards.
Co-authored by Las Vegans Joe Vassallo, president of Paragon Pools, and Mary Vail, his exclusive photographer and a publicist, the book presents a variety of ways to combine pools and spas into backyard retreats. Together, they showcase Vassallo’s concepts of AquaTekture, which blends the design of the pool with the surrounding area for both aesthetic and functional reasons, and how to develop a Comfort-scape, a combination of backyard and pool design that creates a sense of joy.
The backyards created by Vassallo and his design team are featured in about 350 color photos. They include yards both large and small, elaborate and simple pools, some with separate dining areas and outdoor kitchens and some with covered patios.
“There’s not just one picture of each pool. They are from many different angles. You get a really good feel for the overall look or design,” he said.
Vassallo and Vail take pride in the fact that none of the photos featured have been enhanced and portray the backyards exactly as they look. Some are from pools he built five or more years ago.
Although Vassallo specializes in pool and spa design through his company, he said the book focuses on the entire backyard living experience.
As such, the book features grilling recipes from Gustav Mauler, a certified master chef and owner of Spiedini restaurant, and cocktail recipes and techniques from Shawn Barker, a mixologist and bartender for Wolfgang Puck’s Bar and Grill at the MGM Grand, as well as ideas for special events and celebrating holidays outdoors.
“You don’t have to have a pool to enjoy your backyard,” he said.
He said there are so many areas in the backyard that are underutilized. A small side yard, for example, can be transformed into a cozy nook for lounging or reading.
“Indoor/outdoor living is a big trend. More people are starting to realize they can extend their home’s living space, especially here in Las Vegas,” he said.
Vassallo said the book is a direct result of his time as a columnist for the Home section of the Las Vegas Review-Journal. One of the company’s designers was visiting a client who had saved an article published about two years ago for when it was time to design a pool of his own.
In addition to design tips, the columns featured information about pool and spa maintenance, and themed decorating.
“There were several people who e-mailed us to say they had collected every article,” Vail added. “It just seemed natural to put it all together in one place.”
Proceeds from sales of the book benefit public education programs for the homeless.
