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By Nicole

Selecting Materials for Your Backyard with Ashton Pools

A Custom pool with beautiful Material Selections used

Selecting Materials for Your Dream Backyard: A Guide by Ashton Pools

Congratulations on taking the first step toward creating your dream backyard with Ashton Pools by Design! Now, it’s time to dive into one of the most exciting parts of this journey: selecting the right materials. Each choice—whether it’s pool color, paver type, or veneer—plays a crucial role in shaping a backyard that’s uniquely yours. Let’s explore what to consider so that together, we can build a seamless, beautiful outdoor space tailored to your vision.

Start with Your Vision: Preparing for Material Selection

To make your dream backyard feel like a natural extension of your home, start with some simple preparation. One effective way to prepare is to bring samples of your home’s exterior materials, like paint swatches, stone samples, or siding pieces. With these samples on hand, we can better match your backyard to your home’s look.

Another helpful step is creating a Pinterest board filled with backyard inspiration. This board can help you clarify your style by highlighting your preferences for color, texture, and design. Each pin you add—whether it’s a lush landscape, cozy seating area, or unique pool design—guides us in tailoring your dream backyard to your taste.

Person's hand holding iphone with pinterest showing how you can utilize the social media app for your material selection meeting

Pool Color: Setting the Mood for Your Oasis

The pool color is a defining feature of your backyard oasis. Are you imagining a bright, tropical blue for an inviting escape? Or, perhaps a tranquil, dark hue that mirrors a coastal bay resonates more with you. At Ashton’s Pools by Design, 90% of our clients prefer the elegant Pebble Sheen finish by Pebble Tec, valued for its durability and high-end appeal. Our most popular choice, Aqua Blue, creates a refreshing tropical vibe that complements any outdoor space.

Your pool color defines the ambiance of your backyard. Are you imagining a bright, tropical blue for an inviting escape? Or, perhaps a tranquil, dark hue that mirrors a coastal bay resonates more with you. At Ashton’s Pools by Design, 90% of our clients prefer the elegant Pebble Sheen finish by Pebble Tec, valued for its durability and high-end appeal. Our most popular choice, Aqua Blue, creates a refreshing tropical vibe that complements any outdoor space.

When we designed our own pool, we selected the Irish Mist finish—a choice that holds personal meaning for us, as it brings to mind a cherished resort in Mexico. Irish Mist delivers a resort-style aesthetic with a calming, reflective quality that makes every swim feel like a luxurious escape. This finish is perfect for anyone looking to bring a touch of relaxation and sophistication into their own backyard.

For those wanting to elevate their pool experience even further, Pebble Brilliance is available as an upgrade. This finish incorporates stunning reflective glass beads, adding an extra sparkle that truly shines in the sunlight. Whether you’re aiming for a peaceful oasis or a show-stopping centerpiece, these Pebble Tec options allow you to create a pool that’s as unique as your vision. Let’s set the perfect mood for your dream backyard oasis.

pictures of Pebble Tec samples offered during your backyard selections meeting

Choosing Paver Colors for Comfort and Style

Paver color isn’t just about style—it’s also about comfort. Especially during Delaware’s hot summer months, it’s important to select pavers that stay cool underfoot, making your backyard more enjoyable for you and your guests. We often recommend light, natural stones like travertine or marble. These options stay comfortable in the sun, unlike dark, heat-conducting stones such as bluestone.

If you prefer man-made paver options, choosing lighter tones will ensure a comfortable surface, creating an inviting area for everyone to enjoy. Let’s work together to find the right combination of comfort and style for your backyard.

A pool with a waterfall in the back with beautiful pavers chosen at a backyard design meeting

Adding Finishing Touches with Pool Tile

Think of pool tile as the “jewelry” of your pool. Covering the top six inches of the pool, these tiles add a sophisticated touch without overpowering other features. Once the pool is filled, only three inches remain visible above the water line, giving you a subtle but impactful design element. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or something bold and colorful, our wide range of tile options ensures you’ll find the perfect fit to enhance your dream backyard.

photo of pool showcasing its pool tile that was picked out at the backyard selection meeting

Using Durable Veneer for Vertical Surfaces in Your Dream Backyard

For any vertical surfaces—such as walls, raised pool areas, or outdoor kitchens—a high-quality veneer is essential. It offers durability and style, especially in areas exposed to pool chemicals. While synthetic veneers may appear cost-effective initially, they often wear out faster. Natural stone veneer, on the other hand, maintains its beauty over time and requires less frequent replacement.

If you’re considering a water wall, a textured natural stone veneer can create a beautiful cascading effect, adding both function and style. This feature helps transform your space into a one-of-a-kind backyard retreat.

A beautiful custom water feature for a backyard oasis

Designing an Outdoor Kitchen Perfect for Entertaining in Your Dream Backyard

An outdoor kitchen not only brings convenience but also adds functionality to your backyard. To achieve this, we offer two main options: NatureKast outdoor cabinetry or a classic stone-built kitchen. For instance, NatureKast cabinetry provides extra storage for dishes and cooking tools, creating a streamlined and practical setup. Additionally, if you want to break up the stone elements in your backyard, this cabinetry can add both contrast and a touch of modern style.

On the other hand, Stone-built kitchens provide a classic look and are ideal if you want your outdoor kitchen to blend seamlessly with other stone features. Whichever option you choose, our team will work with you to create an outdoor kitchen that fits your cooking needs and aesthetic preferences.

custom naturekast outdoor kitchen showcasing materials chosen at the materials selection meeting

Final Touches to Complete Your Dream Backyard Oasis

Your backyard is more than just a pool and patio—it’s an outdoor retreat designed for relaxation, entertainment, and cherished memories. To make your space truly unique, we can incorporate a variety of features that enhance both style and functionality. From ledge loungers that let you relax right in the water, to custom fire features, tranquil water features, and even in-pool furniture, each addition helps transform your backyard into a personalized oasis. Whether you’re aiming for a luxurious escape or a family-friendly space, we’ll help you create the perfect outdoor living area tailored to your lifestyle.

An outdoor custom pool with ledge loungers, firepit, pavers and beautiful pool tile all chosen at the material selections meeting

Let’s Create Your Dream Backyard Together

At Ashton Pools by Design, we’re thrilled to help you bring your backyard dreams to life. Whether you have a clear vision or are just starting to explore ideas, our team is here to help. We’ll guide you through each choice and every design element. After all, we believe that every backyard should be as unique as the people who enjoy it. We’re excited to work with you to create a space that reflects your personality and enhances your lifestyle.

If you have any questions or inspiration you’d like to share, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We can’t wait to start building your perfect retreat together!

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