Why is it that pool projects seem to drag on and on? If it's not the contractor who didn't show up, it's the weather. If it's not the weather, it's that the ground is too wet to work. If it's not the wet ground, it's…..well there are 101 things that can prolong a pool project.

That means you have to start early. At the beginning, you have two choices.

HIRE A POOL CONTRACTOR DIRECTLY

It is the unusual pool contractor that has the knowledge or desire to place the pool in the optimum place for the best landscape design. Let's face it, he has to excavate, and most likely would prefer not to place the pool in a location that needs intricate grading. There also is the matter of access. His thought process is not like yours. You want the best swimming pool landscape possible, and he is looking for ease of installation.

Now what about how the pool location and elevation fits with the rest of the landscape design? Has he thought about planted areas and the space for them.

Perhaps you hadn't thought of it, but maybe you would love plants to be right at the water's edge. Does the pool location and elevation maximizes the amount of possible pool paving or meeting your paving requirements?

And now we come to pool elevations, the trickiest of all. If you have a relatively flat property, this is usually not an issue. (Although drainage problems can be created even in these situations if it is not thought out ahead of time.) However, if your property has grade changes, the elevation has to be thought out very carefully. The beautiful projects you see in the magazines or through Google images have been well planned, I can assure you.

Will he advise you as to the pros and cons of various pool paving materials? There is concrete, concrete pavers, travertine pavers, brick, and natural stone. How do these look with the material on your house? What kind of pool coping will look best?

HIRE A PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPE DESIGNER

Here is your answer if you would like an outstanding project. A professional designer will take into consideration all of the above. He will work with you to design the pool itself, along with the best placement and elevation, and it will be incorporated into the entire swimming pool landscape design. He can discuss with you all the various pool options, such as pool waterfalls, and if they will be an asset. He can also suggest reputable pool contractors he has worked with in the past. It's your best bet.

BUT, you do have start early. It takes time to come up with the concept, create the design to your satisfaction, and first get bids on the project. And then you must get on the pool contractor's schedule. The good ones are booked pretty far out.

The earlier you start, the better.