When an Atlanta area homeowner sought “something different” for his backyard pool installation, Sundial Pools‘ CEO Shawn Kelley and his team didn’t just deliver – they pioneered. The Pool of the Month October 2024 showcases an Imagine Pools’ Illusion 35’ in stunning Reef Blue, complemented by what may be America’s first 360-degree infinity edge spa installation.
Starting with a sloped, blank-slate backyard at this suburban home, Sundial Pools tackled the terrain challenges head-on. The team excavated three feet near the house and constructed a retaining wall, creating a perfect foundation for this ambitious project. The entire landscape was transformed with artificial turf, eliminating the need for traditional lawn maintenance while providing a lush, evergreen backdrop.
An integral part of the installation’s centerpiece is the innovative spa design. The Mystique spa, also from Imagine Pools in matching Reef Blue, features a revolutionary 360-degree infinity edge where water cascades into a catch basin on all sides. Floating steps on three sides of the spa are illuminated, creating a striking visual effect at night. The spa is elegantly framed with black glass porcelain tile, adding a sophisticated contrast to the water feature.
“We wanted to do a 360 spa,” explained Kelley, who believes Sundial Pools is the first company in the United States to execute this design. Inspired by a spa installation he saw in Florida, Kelley challenged himself to exceed that design – and succeeded. The adjustable water flow provides not just visual appeal but also creates a soothing soundscape that enhances the entire backyard experience.
Attention to detail is evident throughout the project. The decking features wood-grain textured porcelain tile, while the pool coping in Thermae Storm complements the overall design. The hardscaping integrates pavers and artificial turf in a thoughtfully planned pattern that ties the entire space together. The pool and spa are equipped with colored LED lighting, creating an enchanting atmosphere for evening entertainment.
Modern conveniences weren’t overlooked – the pool features saltwater chlorination and heating systems, ensuring comfortable year-round enjoyment. The project seamlessly blends aesthetic appeal with practical functionality, creating a low-maintenance outdoor oasis.
For Kelley, who opened Sundial Pools five years ago, this project represents the culmination of expertise gained from his background in water park design. After transitioning from the water park industry to focus on residential pools, he brought his innovative vision and technical knowledge to backyard installations. Under his leadership, Sundial Pools has evolved into a comprehensive outdoor living solution provider, offering everything from pavilions and fire pits to complete hardscape designs.
What sets Sundial Pools apart is their commitment to long-term customer satisfaction. As an authorized warranty service provider for major brands including Hayward, Pentair, and Jandy, they ensure their clients receive continued support long after installation. “We are there through the build and beyond,” Kelley emphasized, highlighting their full-service approach.
The success of this project lies not just in its innovative features or meticulous execution, but in the perfect alignment between vision and reality. Both Kelley and his client are thrilled the result matched their initial concept exactly. This installation stands as a testament to what’s possible when creative design meets expert implementation, setting a new standard for residential pool and spa installations.
This Pool of the Month winner demonstrates why Imagine Pools and their certified installers continue to lead the industry in innovative fiberglass pool solutions, pushing boundaries and creating extraordinary backyard experiences that redefine luxury outdoor living.
