From Concept to Dive-In: What Pool Companies Offer Royal Oak & Birmingham, MI, Homeowners

If you’re checking out pool companies Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI, chances are you’re ready to elevate your outdoor living space into something exceptional—something sculpted, sophisticated, and undeniably yours. 

A custom inground pool isn’t simply a home feature; it’s a statement. A destination. The beginning of your personal backyard oasis.

In Royal Oak and Birmingham, where established neighborhoods blend tree-lined streets with architectural charm and upscale tastes, the movement toward fully realized outdoor environments has never been stronger. Homeowners are seeking more than a pool—they’re seeking a curated lifestyle experience: resort-inspired lounging, seamless indoor-outdoor flow, timeless materials, and a sense of ease that lingers long after the sun goes down.

This guide walks you through the journey—from initial inspiration to the first splash—delivered with the artistry and attention to detail that our premium Michigan pool builders at Legacy Landscape bring to every project.

Related: How to Choose the Best Pool Company in Clinton Township, MI for a Customized and Long-Lasting Pool

The Michigan Difference: Designing Pools Meant to Thrive Here

Royal Oak and Birmingham enjoy all four seasons in full expression—sun-soaked summers, crisp autumns, snowy winters, and lively springs. While gorgeous, this climate demands specialized planning for pool installation.

Local expertise matters. Michigan’s freeze-thaw cycles, clay-heavy soils, and varying water tables influence:

• The schedule and timing of excavation

• Material choices for coping and decking

• Structural engineering

• Drainage solutions

• Winterization needs

• Long-term performance of your pool

This is where our reputable pool builders truly shine: designing pools that don’t just look stunning on day one but stand strong through decades of Michigan weather.

What Are Considerations To Make Before Having A Pool Installed By Professional Pool Companies?

Before excavation equipment touches the soil, a genuinely exceptional pool build starts with thoughtful, personalized planning. Luxurious outcomes never happen by accident—they happen by intention.

Here’s what affluent Michigan homeowners should consider (and what reputable pool companies like ours handle with precision):

1. Your Desired Lifestyle and Vision

Everything begins with how you want to live.  Do you picture a serene morning swim? Cocktail hour by the water? A dramatic evening environment with integrated lighting? A spa addition? A modern geometric design? A more organic, naturalistic layout?

This lifestyle vision influences:

• Pool shape and depth

• Tanning ledges or sun shelves

• Spillover spas

• Seating zones

• Transition spaces

• Views from inside your home

• How the pool interacts with your landscape design

The best designs feel choreographed—every movement, every angle, every sightline intentional.

2. Site Orientation and Sun Exposure

Your yard’s orientation determines how warm the pool stays, where shadows fall, and which parts of the space become natural gathering zones. Royal Oak and Birmingham have mature trees, varied lot shapes, and unique neighborhood zoning, all of which affect pool layout.

Premium pool designers study:

• Morning vs. afternoon sun patterns

• Existing topography

• Privacy opportunities

• Wind direction (yes, it matters!)

They sculpt a design that feels like it was meant for your yard—and only your yard.

3. Soil and Drainage Conditions

Clay soil is common in Birmingham and Royal Oak. It expands, contracts, and holds moisture. That means:

• Proper excavation is essential

• Backfill must be engineered

• Drainage must be intentional

• Structural stability is non-negotiable

Nothing about this process is guesswork. Our high-end pool builders choose materials and methods that are proven for Michigan’s soil profile.

4. Local Codes, Permits, and Requirements

Both cities have:

• Specific setback rules

• Impervious surface limits

• Fencing requirements

• Utility clearance needs

• Inspection processes

Luxury pool builders take care of all of this so you remain blissfully removed from the paperwork.

5. Integration With Your Outdoor Living Space

A pool should feel like the heart of your outdoor living space, not an accessory floating off to the side.

High-end projects often include:

• Lounge terraces

• Outdoor kitchens

• Pavilions or pergolas

• Fire features

• Pathways and stairways

• Architectural plantings

• Retaining elements

• Waterfalls and features

• High-quality lighting

Legacy Landscape’s portfolio shows how these elements work together to create a cohesive environment—not separate parts, but one artistic whole.

What Is The Healthiest Type Of Pool?

When homeowners begin researching pools, this question comes up quickly—and for good reason. Affluent clients want water that’s refreshing, clean, and gentle on the skin.

Three systems typically dominate the luxury pool conversation:

Saltwater Pools

Saltwater remains a favorite among upscale homeowners for its:

• Soft-feeling water

• Reduced chlorine levels

• Minimal harsh odor

• More spa-like experience

Saltwater systems create an experience that feels closer to a boutique resort than a traditional backyard pool.

Chlorine Pools

Modern chlorine pools, when properly balanced and maintained professionally, are extremely safe and effective. They’re:

• Reliable in Michigan’s climate

• Easy to service

• Consistent year-round

Chlorine systems have come a long way, offering a clean, crisp swimming experience without the traditional sting many associate with them.

UV-C + Hybrid Systems

For the truly water-quality-obsessed (and yes, that’s a thing), UV systems drastically reduce chemical dependency and neutralize organic contaminants with light.

Many Michigan homeowners pair UV with saltwater for the cleanest, clearest, most luxurious water available.

So, what’s healthiest?

Most luxury homeowners lean toward saltwater or UV-assisted systems for comfort. But “healthiest” ultimately depends on personal preference and sensitivity. All three systems can deliver crystal-clear, safe, enjoyable water when professionally maintained.

Are Salt Water Pools Better Than Chlorine?

This is one of the most spirited debates in the pool world—and there are passionate opinions on both sides.

Let’s break it down:

Why Many High-End Homeowners Prefer Saltwater

• More luxurious, silky-feeling water

• Gentler on skin and hair

• Reduced harsh smell

• Lower daily maintenance needs

• Better swimming comfort

Saltwater shines in lifestyle-driven designs where relaxation, beauty, and comfort come first.

Why Chlorine Still Has Loyal Fans

• Lower upfront cost

• Straightforward cold-weather maintenance

• Simple system repairs

• Familiar chemical balance

In Michigan, where winterization is critical, chlorine systems maintain a strong presence among pool builders.

Which one is “better”?

For luxury and comfort: saltwater.
For simplicity and lower equipment cost: chlorine.
For the best of both worlds: saltwater + UV.

If you’re still on the fence about which pool setup is a good fit for you, speak with our pool design team to get answers to your questions. This ensures you can make the most informed decisions about your backyard upgrade.

Related: Host Epic Pool Parties With Custom Pool Designs by Pool Companies in Oakland Charter Township, MI

Is It Better To Put Sand Or Dirt Under A Pool?

If you’ve been researching pools online, you’ve probably stumbled across conflicting advice. Let’s clear that up—especially as it applies to Michigan’s soil and climate.

For a custom in-ground pool, neither plain sand nor plain dirt is appropriate as the primary base layer.

Dirt?

Unacceptable. Dirt shifts, settles, expands, contracts, and washes out. Michigan’s moisture levels and freeze-thaw cycles make dirt an unstable foundation.

Sand?

Used in some regions for very specific leveling applications, but not recommended as the sole base in Royal Oak or Birmingham.

Why? Sand retains water, can erode, and moves during freeze-thaw cycles. Also, sand doesn’t provide the structural support needed for sustainability.

The Professional Standard: Engineered Base Material

Our luxury pool builders use a compacted crushed stone or aggregate base that’s engineered for proper drainage. Our pool plans are designed to lock into place and remain resistant to water movement. Additionally, our base material stays stable, even in winter.

In other words, our high-end pool designers construct the base with intention and precision—not generic sand or dirt.

Creating a Backyard Oasis That Lives Like a Destination Resort

Your pool isn’t just a vessel for water—it’s the centerpiece of your outdoor lifestyle. Modern Michigan homeowners are embracing complete outdoor living spaces that blend architecture, amenities, and comfort.

A finished luxury pool environment may include:

• Multi-level patios and terraces

• Premium pavers and natural stone

• Outdoor kitchens with built-in appliances

• Fire bowls and fireplaces

• Lounging nooks

• Pergolas and cabanas

• Waterfalls and scuppers

• Mature plantings

• Architectural lighting

Legacy Landscape specializes in cohesive landscape design that blends every feature into one seamless, elegant environment. The goal is simple: every moment outside should feel intentional, beautiful, and indulgent.

Pool Installation Timing in Royal Oak & Birmingham

Michigan’s climate determines when pool installation can occur, and high-end builders always work within these seasonal realities.

Spring

Great for early excavation, design launches, and layout planning. Weather can be unpredictable, but crews are prepared for it.

Summer

Peak building season. Warm weather maximizes efficiency. Many homeowners aim to complete decks, patios, and landscaping during this time.

Fall

Ideal for completing the project so the pool and surrounding space cure, settle, and rest properly before winter.

Winter

Design season. Engineering, permits, planning, and materials selection all happen while the ground is frozen, so work can begin immediately in spring.

The best projects start with early planning. Affluent homeowners tend to schedule months in advance—not because of delays, but because exceptional craftsmanship begins before excavation.

From Concept to Dive-In: The Luxury Build Process

A high-end custom in-ground pool installation typically follows a refined, purposeful sequence:

• Vision & Consultation

• 2D & 3D Design Development

• Engineering & Permits

• Excavation

• Structure Installation

• Plumbing, Electrical & Equipment Integration

• Backfilling & Compaction

• Decking & Hard Surface Construction

• Landscaping Integration

• Lighting & Final Enhancements

• Water Fill & System Calibration

• Final Walkthrough & Orientation

Nothing rushed. Nothing overlooked. Everything is crafted to your preferences and the overall performance of the pool.

Material Selection, Design Styles, and Seasonal Maintenance for Michigan Luxury Pools

When you’re building a custom in-ground pool in Royal Oak or Birmingham, every decision contributes to the final atmosphere of your outdoor living space. The materials you choose, the aesthetic direction you take, and the way your pool is maintained throughout the seasons all play a role in creating a space that feels intentional and distinctly yours. 

Affluent homeowners in Michigan gravitate toward long-lasting materials, refined finishes, and design styles that complement the region’s classic homes and mature landscapes.

Let’s dive into the details that elevate your pool from “nice” to “unforgettable.”

Luxury Material Selection for Michigan Pools

Michigan’s climate means materials aren’t just about looks—they must perform beautifully through snow, heat, humidity, and freeze-thaw cycles. Our high-end pool designers carefully curate materials that are visually sophisticated and built for decades of durability.

1. Pool Coping Options

Coping forms the transition between the pool edge and the surrounding patio, making it both a functional and aesthetic decision. Top luxury picks include:

• Natural Stone: Bluestone, Indiana limestone, and travertine offer a timeless appeal—cool underfoot, elegantly textured, and perfect for classic Birmingham homes.

• Concrete Pavers: A premium option when choosing frost-resistant lines designed for Northern climates. These are available in modern, crisp profiles or softer, tumbled edges.

• Porcelain Coping: Increasingly popular for its clean lines, high durability, and extremely low maintenance. These tiles resist fading and staining even in heavy UV exposure.

2. Pool Decking Materials

Your patio surface matters just as much as the pool itself. Michigan homeowners often choose:

• Porcelain Pavers: Sleek, contemporary, colorfast, and non-porous—ideal for clients wanting low maintenance with high style.

• Natural Stone: Provides rich character and an elevated finish for traditional homes.

• Stamped or Decorative Concrete: A customizable option available in large-format slabs with minimal joints, perfect for retaining heat evenly.

3. Waterline Tile Options

Luxury pool designs often incorporate a sophisticated waterline tile for a polished, designer look. Glass mosaic, porcelain, and iridescent blends offer color movement and shimmer, especially striking at golden hour in Michigan’s summer light.

Materials aren’t just a construction choice—they’re an atmosphere. The right palette can transform the entire energy of your backyard oasis.

Design Styles for Affluent Michigan Homeowners

Royal Oak and Birmingham homes range from historic to modern, and the pool’s design should complement the architecture rather than compete with it. Your pool becomes part of the visual story.

1. Sleek, Modern Pools

Perfect for newer homes or renovated spaces seeking a minimalist aesthetic. Expect:

• Clean geometric shapes

• Dark interior finishes

• Oversized porcelain tiles

• Linear fire features

• Understated landscaping with sculptural plantings

2. Classic Rectangular Pools

A timeless choice that pairs beautifully with traditional Birmingham architecture. Features may include:

• Limestone coping

• Deep navy or cobalt pool interiors

• Elegant water features like scuppers or sheer descents

• Symmetrical layouts that mirror formal gardens

3. Resort-Inspired Organic Designs

Ideal for homeowners who want their space to feel like a boutique vacation destination.  Characteristics include:

• Freeform shapes

• Natural stone accents

• Lush plantings

• Integrated boulders or water features

• Sun shelves and curved edges

4. Entertainer’s Dream Pools

Built for gatherings, these pools focus on functionality and flow. Expect:

• Oversized lounge decks

• Swim-up bars

• Raised spas

• Multiple seating zones

• Integrated lighting and audio systems

The goal? A design that feels tailored to your home’s architecture and your lifestyle—not trendy, not generic, but elevated.

Luxury, Comfort, and Unforgettable Moments Await

Choosing a custom in-ground pool is choosing a lifestyle upgrade—one that brings joy to everyday living and creates new memories year after year.

And when paired with elevated landscape design, premium materials, and thoughtful planning, your backyard becomes something rare: a space that feels like an escape, yet unmistakably yours.

Ready to plan the luxury pool of your dreams? Get in touch with our high-end pool installation experts today.

Related: From Fountains to Spas: 9 Ways Pool Companies in Macomb Township, MI Can Craft Your Ideal Backyard Escape