Soaking in an outdoor jacuzzi is one of life’s great pleasures.

If you’re lucky enough to enjoy an outdoor spa while on vacation, you likely understand why people want to incorporate an outdoor spa into their landscape at home; However, hot tubs present big aesthetic challenges.

It takes some skill to integrate a 600-hundred-gallon bathtub into your landscape and have it look good.

Managing director of COS Design, Steve Taylor, listed 7 important things one should consider when investing in an outdoor spa in his article, We Can Dream: 7 Things to Consider Before Investing in an Outdoor Spa:

1. What Do You Want or Need?

Before investing in an outdoor spa retreat, think about what elements and functions you need and want. Ask yourself, are you looking for remedial massage for sports recovery or other health issues? Are visual aesthetics most important to you? Or do you want your spa to be a social space for gatherings of friends and family?

2. Consider Safety

The next consideration is spa safety. If you’re serious about your investment, you should acquaint yourself with pool regulations that apply to spas, including those regarding barrier fencing, access gates, ledges, covers and placement.

3. How Big Do You Need Your Spa To Be?

Think about how many people will be using it. If you need a spa for only two people, don’t get a huge tub, as you will need to run, heat and maintain it, all of which cost money. If you entertain large groups or have a large family, then you will likely need a bigger spa.

4. Location, Location, Location

Spas are a permanent invitation to enjoy the great outdoors, so make sure you position yours as a focal point in an important vista. The closer it is to the main entertaining space, the better it will be for parties and the more you will use it.

Be careful, though. You want to make sure your spa is close enough for guests to rush back to the house on a cold night without freezing.

5. Let Technology Work for You

Many spa control systems are now Wi-Fi compatible and can be operated via a mobile device. There are also automatic water management systems to keep the pH and chemical balance right, along with in-floor cleaning, auto leveling and the like. Gone are the days of being a slave to your spa.

6. Hidden Costs

Buying, installing and running a spa can take its toll on your wallet, so consider the following expenses before committing to a purchase: Portable spas can have an electric heating system built in but concrete pools and swim spas rely on gas. Portable spas also often have to be craned in, which can be expensive. And don’t forget the cost of the pool fence!

7. Special Features

The great thing about landscapes is that you have the ability to customize them according to your tastes. We always have fun designing dream spas, so you want to think about special features that can make your spa an outdoor oasis! Large acrylic windows, built-in decks, floating seats, glass mosaic tiles and spillovers can take your spa to another level.

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