Arrowhead Deck & Pools – Scottsdale, AZ
1) Cool Decking + Real Shade
Light-tone acrylic overlays, travertine, or textured pavers stay cooler and add traction. Pair fixed shade (pergola/trellis) with adjustable shade (umbrellas on sleeves). Place misters at lounge edges and aim away from walk paths.
2) Baja Shelves You’ll Actually Use
A 6–12″ Baja shelf turns the shallow end into an all-day lounge. Add umbrella sleeves and a ledge table; include step markers for visibility and safer entry.
3) Low-Splash Water Features
Scuppers and sheer descents bring movement and evening sound without overspray. A raised beam doubles as a privacy wall and a clean backdrop for lighting.
4) Integrated Spas for Year-Round Use
Efficient heaters, quiet equipment, and an insulated cover extend the season. Tune the spillway for a pleasant sound, not a splash, especially in breezy areas.
5) Lighting That Performs (and Photographs)
Layer it: warm path/step markers for safety; soft uplights on walls/plants for depth; in-pool LEDs set to a clean white by default. Save simple app scenes for “Evening,” “Party,” and “Quiet Hours.”
6) Automation + Low-Upkeep Gear
Variable-speed pumps, oversized filtration, and app controls keep energy down and water clear. Program post-storm circulation to lift dust after monsoon bursts.
7) Small-Yard Wins
Plunge/cocktail pools with a vertical focal wall (raised beam), perimeter benching, and tight lighting beams make compact courtyards feel intentional with no clutter.
8) Neutral, Textured Finishes
Porcelain or glass waterline tile in soft neutrals plus micro-texture deck finishes read modern now and age well in photos.
FAQs
What cool-decking options really stay cooler?
Light-tone acrylic overlays or honed travertine typically feel 10–20°F cooler than dark broomed concrete and hold traction with a micro-texture finish.
How big should a Baja shelf be for two loungers?
Plan 6–12″ depth and at least 7–8 ft width; place an umbrella sleeve ~18–24″ from the shelf edge.
How do I get water-feature sound without oversplash?
Use scuppers/sheers 18–24″ above water with a 3/8–1/2″ lip and tie them to a variable-speed pump so you can tune flow for wind and events.
What lighting looks best at night (and in photos)?
Paths/steps at 2700–3000K warm white with low-glare fixtures; keep in-pool LEDs on clean white for daily use and save color scenes for parties.
Where should I put misters so the deck isn’t slippery?
Mount them at the outer edge of lounge zones, 8–10 ft apart, aimed away from walk paths; typical fine-mist nozzles use ~0.5–1.0 gph each.
Small yard, what pool size actually works?
A plunge 8×12 to 10×16 ft, with a raised beam for privacy and lighting, feels intentional and leaves room for seating.
Best quick upgrade with big impact?
A lighting refresh + new waterline tile fast install, dramatic evenings, minimal disruption.
How do I plan shade for our west sun?
Prioritize fixed shade (pergola/trellis) on the west/southwest side; use umbrella sleeves to fine-tune coverage at lounges mid-summer.
About the Authors
Catherine Trice & John Trice, Co-Owners
Catherine and John built Arrowhead Deck & Pools into an award-winning residential and commercial pool company. For 17+ years (since 2008) and 5,000+ completed projects, they’ve helped Arizona homeowners, HOAs, and hotels plan outdoor spaces that stand up to Scottsdale’s heat, dust, and monsoon season.