How to Design a Pool With Waterfalls & Hot Tub

Make a list of the parameters of your pool before you start designing it. For example, you may want to write down the dimensions of the space in which the pool will be built, the specific features you want to include -- such as a hot tub and three waterfalls -- and any existing gradient in the space.

Draw an outline of the space where the pool will go, using a ratio such as 1 inch of drawing to 1 actual foot, to achieve a more accurate depiction. Sketch a preliminary outline of the main pool. Common pool shapes include square, kidney and free-form or "natural."

Add the hot tub and waterfalls to the sketch. Draw with an erasable medium like a pencil first so you can make changes in your design. If the area in which the pool will be built has a gradient, or slope, to it, placing the waterfall features in the downward-sloping spot will reduce the amount of earth-moving that will need to be done before the pool can be installed.

Finalize the pool design drawing once you make your pool-feature placement decisions. Add decorative details like fountains, tropical-inspired landscaping in the surrounding area, and faux rocks over which the waterfalls will flow. Once you have designed the pool and its features, you can work out technical details like pumps, filtration and pool lining.