Dave McKibben | Patio Pools & Spas

Evening appeal

“Lighting was a big part of the design of this project,” McKibben says. Each of the built-in benches lining the deck has low-voltage accent lights to match those on the spa riser. These also were used inside the step/access panel area to provide safe passage in and out of the tub. The lights’ orange shade was picked to complement the flames in the yard’s corner fireplace, averting any color conflicts.

McKibben carried the emphasis on lighting into the spa as well. The unit has a color optics system with various shades, which accent the hues in other areas of the yard. For example, blue lighting in the tub brings out the royal blue upholstery of the nearby seating. And while some might not typically prefer a white spa shell over an acrylic finish, the material actually reflects the lighting colors much better without competing against its surroundings.