This or That: Picture Perfect Pools

Summer has officially started and that means lounging season is upon us. There are few things as enjoyable as being out in the sun during July and August. Whether you’re reading a good book or hanging out with friends, relaxing by the pool is one of everyone’s favorite summer activities.

So we’ve got to ask: where would you prefer to catch some rays? Check out our selection of picture perfect pools below and tell us which one is your favorite. Do you prefer Option A’s natural beauty? Or would you rather spend your summer in Option B’s modern-meets-bohemian style? 

OPTION A

Image via Peach Time

OPTION B

Image via Better Homes and Gardens

Our Choice:

Honestly, we were really torn here. Both pools are exceptional spots to spend your summers, so it was very hard for us to choose a winner. But we had to choose, and so we did. Option A ultimately won our vote because it’s all natural. Plants filter and clean the water, which means no more chlorine (you’re welcome, hair) and that the pool fits more cohesively with the landscape. Although Option B is stunning, with two great seating areas and beautiful vegetation, it can’t trump a natural pool. Don’t agree? Share your opinion with @HomeShows on Twitter  - we’d love to know what you think!

Here’s something we can all agree on: saving money is great!  Right now you can get 2-for-1 tickets to the latest Marketplace Events Home Shows. Visit our Facebook page to learn more, and don’t forget to Like Us while you’re there!

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Dream On: 7 Amazingly Ridiculous Features For Your Home

For most, home improvement projects are rooted somewhere in between dreams, budgets, and practicality. Homeowners responsibly create rooms they love. But what if money, space, and time weren't a factor? The renovations you decide to undertake might become very lavish. You may find yourself putting extravagant, luxurious, over-the-top items and features in your home and garden. Need some inspiration for this fantasy? Check out these seven amazing but ridiculous things for your property.

1. Hammock Floor - Great for sitting, napping, and hanging out, the hammock floor is a must-have when you could have it all.

Image via Apartment Therapy

2. Swimming Pool Movie Theater - The swimming pool movie theater is two luxury features in one - what could be better?

Image via Ebaumsworld

3. Secret Room - Inspired by Batman and Harry Potter, every child has dreamed of having a secret room in their home. Make the fantasy come true!

Image via The Huffington Post

Ok, we'd probably try and do this even if we did have some pretty severe budget and space limitations!

4. Staircase Slide - Why walk down the stairs when you can slide down the stairs? Think of all the time you'll save!

Image via Yahoo News

5. Swimming Pool Balcony - The awesomeness of the swimming pool balcony is pretty self-explanatory.

Image via My Modern Met

6. Clear Bathtub - For some reason, when things that aren't normally see-through are see-through (especially when they contain water) they are 50 times cooler.

Image via Imgur

7. Green Roof - Imagine all the activities you could do up there! Golf, picnics, star gazing, the list is endless.

Image via Ecofriend

These are some pretty outrageous home improvement projects, so we have to ask: if you didn't have any constraints, would you actually try any of the upgrades we listed? Or is there a different project you'd undertake?

Planning a more practical renovation? Make sure to head to the Marketplace Events home show nearest you for design inspiration and advice. Check out the shows that are happening in your area - US Shows & Canadian Shows.

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Orlando Exhibitor Spotlight: All Seasons Pools

EXHIBITOR SPOTLIGHT

You won't want to miss All Seasons Pools at our 
2013 Orlando Home Show (Oct. 4-6)! 

Get to know this fabulous exhibitor!

• Location
• Sanford, Tampa & The Villages
• Describe All Seasons Pools:
• Family fun is our business! All Seasons Pools has been building sculptured concrete-gunite swimming pools and spas in Florida since 1979. By offering expert design solutions and state-of-the-art construction techniques, we are able to provide our customers with the highest quality custom built pool or spa available in today’s market.

• What are your best home or garden tips for this season?
• Building your new pool during the fall & winter is the best time. Don't wait until spring or summer when everyone is having their pool built. It costs more and takes longer. Every day you have to wait during the summer to swim in your new pool,can feel like an eternity. Beat the heat and the rush and get your pool built during the off season.
• What are your featured items this season?
• A FREE salt system with every new pool.

You can catch All Seasons Pools at our 
2013 Orlando Home Show (Oct. 4-6) at the Orange County Convention Center! 

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