Custom Pools in Arizona: Top 8 Pool Features that Boost Home Value.

Canterra Pools • March 27, 2025

Beat the Heat in Arizona with a Custom Pool by Canterra Pools

Arizona summers are no joke. With triple-digit temperatures lasting for months, homeowners are always looking for the best ways to cool down, relax, and make the most of their outdoor living space. One of the most effective (and luxurious) ways to beat the desert heat? A custom pool built specifically for your Arizona lifestyle.


At Canterra Pools, we specialize in custom pool builds in Arizona, crafting personalized backyard retreats that are both beautiful and functional. But beyond just cooling off, the right pool design can significantly boost your home’s value — especially in Arizona’s competitive real estate market.


To get the most out of your custom pool in Arizona, it’s smart to understand the top trends for best pool features for Arizona homeowners and how to design a custom pool that adds long-term value to your home.

 

Why Custom Pools Are a Smart Investment in Arizona


Arizona is ranked among the top states for in-ground pool ownership. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 32% of Phoenix homes have a pool — one of the highest percentages in the country. With extreme summer temps and a culture centered around outdoor living, it's no surprise that a well-designed custom pool can significantly increase a home's market appeal. In fact, according to real estate experts, homes with pools in Phoenix can potentially sell for 5-8% more than similar homes without one.


But not just any pool will do. A custom pool, tailored to your home’s layout and lifestyle, offers the most return — both in enjoyment and resale value.

 

Top 8 Pool Features for Arizona Summers


1. Baja Shelf (Tanning Ledge)


This shallow entry area is perfect for sunbathing while staying partially submerged — a must-have for Arizona’s scorching sun. It’s also a great feature for kids or pets to splash around safely.


Bonus Tip: Add umbrella sleeves and lounge chairs directly on the shelf for extra comfort.

 

2. Built-In Shade Structures


Even in the water, sun exposure is intense. Pergolas, cantilever umbrellas, or integrated shade sails over sections of your pool provide essential UV protection without sacrificing aesthetics.

 

3. Pool Chillers and Cooling Features


In Arizona, pool water can reach uncomfortably warm temperatures during July and August. Adding a pool chiller or a reverse-cycle heat pump with cooling mode can drop the water temp by up to 10 degrees — making your pool a refreshing oasis, not a hot tub.

 

4. Water Features (Waterfalls, Sheer Descents, Deck Jets)


Water features aren’t just beautiful — they help cool the air around your pool and keep the water circulating. The sound of flowing water also adds a relaxing ambiance, turning your backyard into a private resort.

 

5. High-Efficiency Pool Equipment


Arizona homeowners can save significantly on energy and maintenance with the right equipment, and according to SRP (Salt River Project), switching to an energy-efficient pool pump can save up to $500 per year on electricity. Types of energy-efficient pool equipment includes:

  • Variable-speed pumps (now required by Arizona law)
  • Automated filtration systems
  • Smart pool automation apps for mobile control

 

6. Cool Decking


Surround your pool with cool deck coatings that reflect sunlight and stay up to 30% cooler than standard concrete. This keeps feet comfortable and reduces the ambient temperature around your pool.

 

7. LED Lighting for Night Swims


With desert heat lingering even after sunset, many Arizona families swim at night. LED lighting not only enhances safety and visibility, but also adds drama and mood with color-changing options.

 

8. Integrated Spa or Hot Tub


Yes — even in Arizona, spas are a hot feature. Cooler desert evenings and the therapeutic benefits of a hot soak make spas a highly desirable addition to your pool design.

 


Designing a Pool That Adds Value to Your Home


Building a custom pool in Arizona is one of the biggest investments you can make in your Arizona home. Here’s how to ensure it adds real value:

 

1. Work With a Licensed, Bonded, and Insured Pool Builder


This is key to protecting your investment. Canterra Pools is proud to be fully licensed, bonded, and insured through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, with an active and clean ROC license.

 

2. Choose a Design That Matches Your Home’s Architecture


A custom pool should blend seamlessly with your home’s style — whether it’s modern, Mediterranean, or desert contemporary. Features like natural stone, clean geometric lines, or custom tile finishes in your can elevate the entire property.

 

3. Consider Future Buyers


While it’s important to design for your lifestyle, you’ll get better resale value with versatile features. Think:

  • Moderate pool size (too large can reduce yard space)
  • Family-friendly shallow zones
  • Energy-efficient systems
  • Low-maintenance materials

 

4. Enhance Landscaping & Outdoor Living Areas


A pool isn’t just a standalone feature — it’s the centerpiece of your outdoor space. Add value with:

  • Paver patios or travertine decking
  • Outdoor entertainment areas like built-in BBQs or kitchen
  • Fire pits and conversation areas
  • Drought-tolerant landscaping and xeriscaping with native Arizona plants

 

5. Stay Ahead of Trends, but Keep It Timeless


Trendy features like glass tile mosaics, vanishing edges, or fire-water bowls can be stunning — but they should be tastefully integrated so the design ages well. A timeless design ensures your pool remains desirable to future buyers and at Canterra Pools, our in-house pool designer will ensure the final result checks off every box!

 


Why Arizona Homeowners Trust Canterra Pools


At Canterra Pools, we don’t just build pools — we build dream backyards that transform the way you live at home. From concept to completion, we handle every step with precision, transparency, and a commitment to excellence.

  • ROC Licensed, Bonded & Insured
  • Locally owned and operated in Arizona
  • Custom free design consultations tailored to your home
  • Trusted by dozens of Arizona homeowners and families

 

Ready to Beat the Heat with a Custom Pool?


If you’re ready to create a luxurious backyard escape that not only helps you survive the summer but adds real value to your home, Canterra Pools is here to help. Schedule your free design consultation today and let’s turn your dream pool into a reality — just in time for the Arizona heat.☀️


Top 5 Ways to Elevate Your Arizona Winter Landscape Design

Top 5 Ways to Elevate Your Arizona Winter Landscape Design

By Canterra Construction • October 28, 2025
Enhance your outdoor living space this winter with tips to transform your Arizona winter landscape design and turn your yard into your favorite place to unwind.
5 Tips to Make Your Arizona Home Energy Efficient This Winter

Top 5 Ways to Make Your Arizona Home More Energy Efficient This Winter

By Canterra Construction • October 16, 2025
As winter approaches in Arizona, get top tips on how to make your Arizona home more energy-efficient—and how our experts can help you check each one off your list.
Elevate Your Exterior Lighting for Arizona Winters.

Top 3 Ways to Elevate Your Exterior Lighting for Arizona Winters.

By Canterra Construction • October 9, 2025
Brighten your Arizona home with these top winter exterior lighting ideas from Canterra Construction—safe, stylish, and energy-efficient.

Get Holiday-Ready with a Casita: Build the Perfect Space for Visiting Family in Phoenix

By Canterra Construction • September 29, 2025
The holidays are just around the corner, and for many Phoenix homeowners, that means welcoming family and friends into their homes. But as joyful as the season is, it can also feel crowded when guests arrive. That’s why more families are turning to casitas and guest houses —a smart, stylish way to provide comfort and privacy for visitors while adding long-term value to your property. At Canterra Construction , we’re a trusted casita builder in Phoenix , helping homeowners design and build spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful. Why Casitas Are Perfect for the Holidays Privacy for Guests – Give in-laws, relatives, or friends their own retreat, complete with a bedroom, bathroom, and even a kitchenette. More Space for You – Keep your main home uncluttered and stress-free while still being an incredible host. Multi-Use Value – Once the holidays pass, your casita doubles as a home office, gym, studio, or even a rental unit. Features That Make Holiday Hosting Easy When planning a casita, think beyond just the basics. Consider: Open floor plans that allow flexibility. Kitchenettes for quick meals and snacks. Luxury finishes that make the space feel like a true home-away-from-home. Energy-efficient design built for Phoenix’s climate. Why Build Now Fall and early winter are excellent times to start your casita project. By beginning now, you’ll be ready not just for this holiday season, but for many more to come. Plus, with Phoenix’s strong housing market, casitas continue to add exceptional resale value to your home. Canterra: Your Phoenix Casita Builder We specialize in designing and building custom casitas tailored to your family’s lifestyle. From simple guest quarters to luxury in-law suites, our craftsmanship and attention to detail ensure a seamless blend with your home’s existing architecture. Make This Holiday Season the Most Comfortable Yet Don’t stress about where the in-laws will stay—create a dedicated, private space that everyone will appreciate. 👉 Ready to build your casita in Phoenix? Contact Canterra today and let’s design a guest retreat that’s perfect for the holidays and beyond.

Pool Season Isn’t Over: Extend Your Enjoyment This Fall in Phoenix

September 17, 2025
In most parts of the country, fall signals the end of pool season. But here in Phoenix, the sunshine lingers, and backyard pools stay front and center well into autumn. With the right upgrades, you can keep your pool experience thriving even as the weather cools down. At Canterra Construction, we help homeowners make the most of Arizona’s endless summer by creating pool areas that are as functional in October as they are in July. Why Fall Is the Perfect Time to Focus on Your Pool Temperatures in the Valley stay warm enough to swim well into the season, and the milder weather makes construction and renovation projects more efficient. It’s the ideal time to add those features you’ve been dreaming about before the next hot summer rolls around. Ways to Keep Pool Season Going Strong 1. Heated Pools & Spas Add a heating system to extend your swim season through fall and even into winter. Combined with a built-in spa, you’ll enjoy comfort and relaxation year-round. 2. Shade Cabanas & Ramadas Create resort-style lounging with a shaded cabana or ramada. These additions make poolside entertaining more comfortable and visually striking. 3. Outdoor Kitchens & Bars Turn your pool area into the ultimate gathering spot with a built-in grill, bar, or full kitchen. Perfect for football watch parties, birthdays, or weekend get-togethers. 4. Lighting & Fire Features Enhance safety and ambiance with custom lighting. Pair it with a fire pit or fireplace to keep the evenings cozy long after the sun sets. 5. Upgraded Decking & Seating Areas Durable decking and thoughtfully designed seating areas make your pool the true heart of your home’s exterior. Canterra’s Expertise in Poolside Living We know how to design and build for Phoenix’s unique climate. Our poolside structures and heated pool solutions are crafted with durability, style, and function in mind. With Canterra, you don’t just get an upgrade—you get a personalized extension of your lifestyle.  Make Every Season Pool Season Don’t pack away the swimsuits just yet. In Phoenix, fall is still pool time—and with the right additions, it can be the best season of all. 👉 Ready to extend your pool enjoyment into fall and beyond? Contact Canterra today to start planning your perfect poolside upgrades.
phoenix construction company casitas and pols

Get Ready for Outdoor Season in Phoenix: Fall Structures & Exterior Additions

September 10, 2025
Making the Most of Fall As the temperatures finally dip and the desert sun feels just right, fall in Phoenix is the perfect time to embrace outdoor living. At Canterra, we know your home’s exterior should feel like a true extension of your lifestyle. Whether you’re hosting game-day barbecues, relaxing by the pool, or creating a cozy retreat for family nights, the right outdoor structures can transform your space into a year-round haven. Why Fall Is the Ideal Time for Outdoor Projects Fall brings relief from Phoenix’s summer heat, making it the perfect season to start building or enhancing outdoor spaces. Construction timelines are smoother, materials hold up better in the cooler weather, and you’ll be ready to fully enjoy your upgrades come spring and summer. Popular Outdoor Structures & Additions 1. Pergolas & Shade Structures A custom pergola provides stylish shade while defining your patio or backyard. Add string lights or climbing plants for a touch of warmth and ambiance. 2. Covered Patios & Ramadas A well-built covered patio or ramada extends your living space outdoors, giving you a perfect spot for dining, lounging, or entertaining—even when the sun is high. 3. Outdoor Kitchens & Bars Imagine grilling under the stars or hosting friends for a fall football party. An outdoor kitchen or bar adds both function and luxury, raising your home’s value while elevating your gatherings. 4. Fire Features Fire pits, fireplaces, or modern fire bowls create a cozy focal point. In cool desert evenings, they bring people together and make your backyard usable year-round. 5. Poolside Enhancements From shade cabanas to sleek decking, exterior additions can make your pool area more comfortable, functional, and visually stunning. The Canterra Difference At Canterra Construction, we combine expert craftsmanship with creative design to bring your outdoor vision to life. Our team specializes in structures built to withstand Phoenix’s climate—durable, stylish, and tailored to your home. Make This Fall the Start of Your Outdoor Lifestyle Don’t wait until summer to realize you wish you had built the perfect outdoor escape. Fall is here, and it’s the best time to invest in a space where memories are made. 👉 Ready to create your dream outdoor addition? Contact Canterra today and let’s build something extraordinary—just in time for outdoor season in Phoenix.
More Blogs