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You don't need to have a pool to enjoy luxurious water-based entertainment areas
After 30+ years in the landscape design and installation business here in Arizona, I've learned that choosing the right type of water structure can really help make an outdoor living space come to life. For many Arizonans that may mean a swimming pool but for others, pools aren't always the best option or even a good fit. In this article, I want to discuss a great alternative to swimming pools- outdoor spas.
Understanding Your Spa Options: From Simple to Luxurious
When clients ask me about adding a spa to their landscape, the first thing I do is help them understand the different options available. While it wasn't always the case, these days the variety of spas available is amazing, and each type requires different considerations for outdoor spa and pool hardscaping. Let me share what I've learned about the main types:
Above-Ground Acrylic Spas: The Versatile Choice
I'll be honest - I haven't always been a huge fan of above-ground spas. But manufacturers have really stepped up their game in recent years. Modern acrylic spas can be absolutely stunning when properly integrated into the landscape. The key is creating a design that makes the spa look intentional rather than just dropped into place as an afterthought.
One of my favorite projects involved building a multi-level deck around an acrylic spa, with built-in planters and LED lighting. The end result looked like a high-end resort feature rather than a typical hot tub installation. These spas are great because they:
Come in various sizes and configurations
Offer excellent energy efficiency
Can be moved if needed (though I don't recommend planning for this)
Usually include built-in features like jets and lighting
Tend to be more budget-friendly than custom options
Swim Spas: The Perfect Compromise
In recent years, swim spas have become increasingly popular in Arizona, especially among clients who want the benefits of both a pool and a spa but have limited space. They are especially great options for those with shallow or narrow yards who may not have the room for a traditional swimming pool.
The key advantages of swim spas include:
Year-round usability for exercise and relaxation
Smaller footprint than a traditional pool
Lower maintenance costs
Excellent for physical therapy and low-impact exercise
Can often be installed where a full pool isn't feasible
Custom In-Ground Spas: Made to Match Your Style
One of my favorite types of installations is custom in-ground spas. These offer unlimited design possibilities. My clients loves that they can be built to match the style and color scheme of their home or other outdoor structures and can include a number of additional features like lighting or attached planters.
I have worked on a number of inground spa projects over the years and in conjunction with a number of different pool companies to create some truly unique features. One project that stands out involved building a four sided negative-edge spa that appeared to float above the surrounding desert landscape. It was certainly an eye catching focal point that elevated the entire look and feel of the client's outdoor space.
Pool-Attached Spas: Creating a Seamless Look
Working alongside several different pool companies over the years has taught me a lot about integrating spas with swimming pools. The most important lesson? The spa should look like it was always meant to be there, not an afterthought. There are a number of different techniques that I employ when I design or help construct pool-attached spas.
Some of my favorite design techniques include:
Using identical interior finishes in both pool and spa and
Incorporating the pool and spa finishes into other places in the yard when possible
Creating multiple spillway effects between the spa and pool
Incorporating shared water features
Designing unified lighting schemes
Using consistent coping and decking materials to tie the pool and spa together and to the rest of the space
The Technical Side of Spa Integration
Here's something other contractors may not tell you upfront - different types of spas require very different installation approaches. For example, I once had a client who wanted to convert their above-ground spa into an in-ground installation. The amount of retrofitting required made it more expensive than starting fresh with a proper in-ground spa.
Foundation Requirements That Matter
Each spa type needs specific foundation preparation:
Above-ground spas need a perfectly level pad, often concrete
In-ground spas require proper excavation and shell construction
Swim spas often need enhanced structural support due to their size and weight
Pool-attached spas must be engineered to prevent settling and maintain proper water flow
Electrical Requirements for Spas and Jacuzzi's Can't be Ignored
One thing I can't stress enough to my clients when considering a spa or jacuzzi is the importance of paying attention to electrical requirements. Most modern spas require a dedicated 220-240 volt circuit with adequate amperage to power their heaters, pumps, and lighting systems. This necessitates working with a licensed electrician to ensure the spa has the following:
Dedicated circuit - spa needs its own circuit directly from a main electrical pane
GFCI protection - Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter is mandatory for all outdoor spas
Proper wire sizing - Typically 6-gauge copper wire is required, but this varies based on the spa's specifications and distance from the panel
Disconnect switch - A weatherproof disconnect must be installed within sight of the spa, but at least 5 feet away
Conduit requirements - Underground wiring must be run through approved weatherproof conduit
Permit and inspections - Required in most jurisdictions
How Do You Get That Spa or Swim Spas Back There?
The installation process of your spa or swim spa varies significantly depending on the type, size, and accessibility of your property. Most prefab spas are delivered as complete units, while swim spas may require more extensive planning due to their larger size. The installation approach chosen depends on factors like your yard's layout, access points, and the specific features you've selected. Here's a breakdown of the most common installation methods:
Crane delivery - For larger spas and swim spas, a crane may be required to lift the unit over your home or obstacles and place it precisely in your prepared site
Hand-carried installation - Smaller portable spas can sometimes be moved in sections through gates or walkways and assembled on site
Semi-modular delivery - Some swim spas are transported on flatbed trucks and rolled/slid into position using specialized equipment
Prefabricated acrylic spas - These typically come as complete units and require either crane lifting or multiple-person teams to maneuver into place
Prefabricated acrylic shells- These are the spa unit but without exterior walls and are dropped into a masonry structure prepared ahead of time on site.
Creating the Perfect Spa Environment
If you already own or if you've ever considered adding a spa to your outdoor space, you know that it is only one part of the equation. For maximum utility, enjoyment and relaxation, the surrounding environment matters just as much and should be well thought out to compliment the inclusion of your spa or jacuzzi. When discussing outdoor spa projects with my clients, I also recommend considering:
Privacy screening using landscape elements (especially if your property contains a view fence)
Comfortable seating areas nearby
Easy access from the house
Shade structures for daytime use
Storage solutions for chemicals and accessories
A negative edge spa spills over into the main pool with nearby seating and entertainment area.
Common Design Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I see that I try to help my clients avoid is underestimating the importance of good access to your spa or jacuzzi. You need to think about:
Daily access for users (including safe, well-lit pathways)
Maintenance access for equipment servicing
Cover removal and storage (this can be a big one, believe it or not!)
Equipment placement for efficient operation
Safety measures in place for those who may have more difficulty getting in and out
How Do I Choose the Perfect Spa for My Space?
Wondering how to choose the perfect spa for your yard? If you're in the Phoenix area and thinking about adding a spa or swim spa to your outdoor living space, I'd love to help you explore some options that will work well for your specific situation. I know with so many great choices, it can seem overwhelming but with the right design approach, a spa can become a beautiful and functional part of your landscape. Click the link below for a free consultation, and let's talk about creating your perfect outdoor retreat.