May 2025 Pool of the Month: H2Pro Pools Transforms Blank Yard into Backyard Paradise

Sometimes the most remarkable transformations begin with a blank canvas. That’s exactly what H2prO Pools encountered when they took on this winner of the May 2025 pool of the month project in Bellbrook, Ohio. What started as an empty yard with only an unappealing small pond has become a breathtaking backyard retreat featuring The Inspiration 30′ in Volcanic Black from Imagine Pools.

The magic happened through the collaboration of Ty Miller and April Mittlestead, who co-own H2prO Pools together. April also owns Sunshine Designs, bringing her design expertise to the partnership. Ty, a mechanical engineer by trade, handled the technical aspects while deferring to April’s design vision. “April is a mastermind designer,” Ty explained, and their partnership clearly shows in the stunning results.

The project required innovative thinking from the start. The team had to tie up tree limbs in the side yard just to move the pool in with an excavator. But challenges like these are exactly what H2prO Pools thrives on, as they can install a pool in practically any backyard and love thinking outside the box.

The sloping yard presented another opportunity for creative problem-solving. Rather than fighting the natural slope toward the existing shed, the team incorporated it into their design. They built a striking three-foot-high boulder retaining wall in the back, which not only addresses the slope but adds visual drama to the space.

The hardscaping choices reflect both beauty and functionality. The main field features Pendelton Elite Pavers from Reading Rocks, while the exterior border uses Mark Elite pavers from the same supplier. The dark charcoal smooth bullnose coping perfectly complements the Volcanic Black pool shell, while the midnight sky main deck creates a sophisticated color palette.

But the real genius lies in the details you don’t see. The team installed a permeable patio system for superior drainage, sloped the ground away from the home, and added gravel drainage systems. A sump pump – standard for all H2prO installations – prevents water runoff and erosion while reducing freeze-thaw cycle issues common in Ohio. Even the gravel serves double duty by deterring rodents from burrowing.

The choice of Volcanic Black for The Inspiration 30′ wasn’t just about aesthetics, though it certainly delivers on beauty. This striking color helps the water stay warmer longer and heat up faster, offering a practical benefit that extends the swimming season. At night, when the two LED lights illuminate the pool, it transforms into what looks like an elegant pond, creating a serene focal point for evening relaxation.

H2prO Pools didn’t stop at the pool installation. The complete makeover included new landscaping, a freestanding spa with dual access points, fencing and even a putting green. Every element works together to create a cohesive outdoor living space that maximizes both beauty and functionality.

Mittlestead emphasizes that H2prO Pools focuses on creating installations that require minimal maintenance in the future but never cuts corners to achieve this goal. It’s a philosophy that clearly pays dividends for homeowners who want to spend more time enjoying their pool and less time maintaining it.

This project perfectly demonstrates how the right team can transform any space into your dream backyard. Whether you’re starting with a blank yard like this winning installation or working around existing features, the possibilities are endless when you combine expert design, quality engineering and premium products.

Ready to explore how a fiberglass pool from Imagine Pools can transform your backyard? Every space has potential. It just takes the right vision and expertise to bring it to life. Contact your local Imagine Pools dealer today to get started.