Arizona is a state made for swimming pools! Because of its invariably hot and arid climate, a pool has become a fixture of the state’s lifestyle. Yuma, Phoenix, and Tucson are ranked first, second, and sixth, respectively, on the list of the world’s 10 sunniest cities, based on highest sunshine averages over a 30-year period. The six Phoenix metro area cities of Scottsdale, Tempe, Chandler, Glendale, Gilbert, and Mesa dominate the Top 10 list compiled by Realtor.com of medium-to-large cities with the highest percentage of single-family homes with backyard pools.
The Seventh-Inning Swim?
The pool is so engrained in the Arizona culture that Arizona’s Major League Baseball team – the Arizona Diamondbacks – were the first team to incorporate a pool into their ballpark’s design. When Phoenix’s Chase Field opened in 1998, the swimming pool area (complete with a hot tub, umbrellas, and deck chairs) overlooking the right-centerfield fence was seen as a novelty. Almost 20 years later, the pool suite has inspired many imitations in rival ballparks, boasts an official sponsor (currently, RAM Trucks) and continues to sell out every game (prices begin at $4,750). Players even celebrate monumental wins by jumping into the pool, a tradition started by the 2011 team.
A Residential Standout
Arizona also has the honor of being the home to the most expensive private pool in all of the United States. Located in Gilbert and built by Red Rock Contractors, the Kitchukov Family Pool is at least 10 times larger than an average backyard pool, took five months to build, and comes in at a cost of $1 million. Features include waterfalls, fountains, a 15-foot water slide, and a 15-person spa. A state-of-the-art automation system allows the owners to control the pool’s operations and adjust its settings from anywhere in the world.
Luxurious Oases in the Desert
Arizona is also home to many impressive commercial swimming pools. Called the “Jewel of the Desert,” and “Arizona’s Grand Dame,” the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix has been welcoming visitors with Gilded Age glamour since 1929. This landmark Art Deco property touts celebrated American architect Frank Lloyd Wright as a consulting architect on its design, and was owned by Chicago chewing gum magnate William Wrigley, Jr. Wrigley built the resort’s first swimming pool, the Catalina pool, so named for the vibrant blue and yellow tiles from Catalina Island that were incorporated into its design. This historic pool is known as a favorite of Marilyn Monroe, and a site where composer Irving Berlin wrote many songs, including “White Christmas.” Today, the complex offers eight pools, including the Paradise Pool, which is comprised of three pools, and includes a 92-foot waterslide, a swim-up bar, and cabanas.
Other impressive Valley of the Sun resorts include Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa and The Phoenician. Both resorts offer stunning views of the rugged Camelback Mountains, in stark and rustic contrast to their luxurious amenities. Sanctuary boasts a serene pool with Arizona’s largest infinity edge. The 250-acre Phoenician complex includes seven pools, the highlight of which is its mother of pearl-tiled oval pool. Other attractions include a 165-foot waterslide, a children’s wading pool, and cascading waterfalls. The resort’s Canyon Suites is ranked as the best hotel in Phoenix and all of Arizona by US News & World Report, while The Phoenician itself comes takes the honor of the number three ranking in both Phoenix and the state.
Whether you live in Arizona, or you reside in any of the other 49 states, let Lyon Financial be your loan consultant for the best terms, the lowest rates, and a true partner until the construction of your backyard paradise is complete. Call 877-738-4874 today!
