Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast

Ep 124 The Designer Secret of Metal Luxury Spas with Diamond Spas

Mike and Trey Farley interview Mitch Martinez, design manager at Diamond Spas, a 30-year-old company fabricating custom stainless steel and copper vessels including spas, cold plunges, plunge pools, pools, swim spas, and water features for luxury residential and commercial wellness projects. Martinez explains benefits over fiberglass/gunite such as 316L shells, 304 supports, 25-year warranty, contemporary straight-line designs, lighter weight for rooftops, energy efficiency from closed-cell spray foam insulation, and two-stage containment via a vault with access for maintenance and leak monitoring. He compares stainless vs copper mainly by aesthetics and copper’s antimicrobial properties, notes salt/chlorine/bromine void warranties, and recommends UV with hydrogen peroxide or AOP systems. The episode covers customization (jet layouts, loungers, acrylic windows, infinity edges, covers, movable floors), installation logistics, bonding, lighting, climate-related heating/chilling, and common issues like improper sanitizers or rigging.
 
Discover more:
https://www.diamondspas.com/ (720) 864-9115
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Podcast Welcome
01:12 Meet Mitch Martinez
01:50 What Diamond Spas Makes
02:58 Mitch Career Path
04:40 Who Buys These
05:15 Metal vs Fiberglass
06:27 Stainless vs Copper
08:39 Tile and Finishes
09:59 Heating and Insulation
11:21 Climate and Chillers
12:28 Equipment Options
13:43 Rooftop Weight Benefits
14:12 Leak Protection Strategy
16:18 Welding and Quality
17:24 Expansion and Movement
18:36 Custom Features and Ergonomics
21:19 Edges Windows Covers Floors
22:55 Sanitizers and Chemicals
24:52 Wellness Center Boom
26:46 Coastal Salt Considerations
29:45 Delivery and Installation
32:01 Wild Install Stories
33:51 Recycled Metals and Repairs
35:40 Shipping Size Limits
37:39 Structural Support Planning
38:28 How to Start a Project
40:18 Pre-Patina Copper Finish
40:55 Cost vs Gunite Pools
42:47 Infinity Edges and Acrylic
44:07 Water Color and Reflection
45:35 Surface Feel and Slip
46:52 Bonding and Electrical Safety
47:28 LED Lighting Options
48:20 Covers and Debris Control
51:12 Install Risks and Scope
54:54 Warranty and Jobsite Protection
58:50 Vault Access and Drainage
01:04:53 Rapid Fire Personal Q&A
01:08:42 Cold Plunges and Chillers
01:15:20 Wrap-Up and Show Mission
 

Ep 123 Stop Designing ‘Patios’ and Start Designing Rooms: Ginny Brennan’s Secret

Mike and Trey Farley host the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast and interview Ginny Brennan, co-founder of One Affirmation, an online home decor shop launched after forming an LLC in 2015 and going live in 2016. Ginny shares her background (former actress with roles including Entourage and The Hit List), her move from Brooklyn to Texas, and how a 2015 trip to Thailand inspired her to source handmade textiles and teach herself sewing via YouTube, leading to her first Etsy sales and a growing pillow business.
 
Discover more:
https://www.oneaffirmation.com/
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Podcast Welcome
01:17 Meet the Hosts and Guest
01:40 Backyard Design Story
03:51 What Is One Affirmation
04:30 From Acting to Etsy
05:55 Sourcing Textiles and Designers
07:56 Outdoor Pillow Essentials
09:56 Custom Cushions and Wind Fixes
11:19 Outdoor Living Trends and Comfort
12:46 Shopping the New Website
13:42 Pillow Consultations and Styling
16:40 Scaling the Business
18:39 COVID Boom and Texas Move
20:36 Inventory and Shipping Timelines
22:01 What Makes a Luxury Backyard
24:50 Rugs and Custom Work
26:00 How to Contact and Follow
27:27 How Many Pillows Is Too Many
28:41 Bench Depth Planning
30:05 Layering Outdoor Comfort
32:31 Pet Friendly Fabrics
34:03 Design Rules And Value
34:55 Textiles And Career Shift
36:15 Neutral Pillow Trends
37:18 Social Media Design School
38:47 Outdoor Inserts And Mold
40:14 Dogs And Backyard Life
42:28 Luxury Feel With Accessories
44:35 Sizing Rugs And Refreshing
46:31 Rapid Fire Favorites
48:35 Wrap Up And Show Mission
 

Ep 122 2026 Modern pool trends: Inside the hottest Vegas outdoor designs with Tanr Ross

Mike Farley of Farley Pool Designs hosts Tanr Ross of Pool Scapes (Las Vegas) to discuss pool and outdoor living design, with an emphasis on when 3D modeling is necessary and how it improves client understanding. Additional topics include challenges and benefits of LED strip lighting and uplights (installation complexity, costs, and preference for PAL lighting support), the value of reviewing recent, verifiable work and visiting active job sites when selecting a designer/builder, and functional design principles such as sightlines from open-glass interiors, communal layouts over paper “balance,” and frequent use of fire pits with ergonomic, cushioned sunken seating.
 
Discover More:
https://www.poolscapes.com/
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Welcome to the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast (What to Expect)
01:12 Meet Tanr Ross + Do You Really Need 3D Renderings?
03:40 Tanr’s Origin Story: AutoCAD, Pool Studio & Early 3D Experiments
07:29 Renderings That Feel Real: Scale, Furniture & Adding People
09:39 Pool Scapes Business & Career Path: Vegas → Texas → Back Home
12:48 Why Modern Design Wins (and When Curves Get Tricky)
16:43 Nevada’s 600 Sq Ft Pool Rule: Workarounds, Zero-Edge Math & Remodels
24:27 Signature Project Breakdown: The “Cube” Water Feature & Build Challenges
27:08 Where Inspiration Comes From + How Tanr Actually Designs in 3D
29:48 Getting Better Without “School”: Reps, Pressure, Freelance & Speed
31:29 Why He Doesn’t Travel Anymore (Motion Sickness, Anxiety & Work Mode)
32:11 Vegas Trade Shows, Networking & Staying ‘Nose Down’ Busy
33:47 LED Strip Lighting in Pools: Nightclub Vibes, Install Headaches & Real Costs
37:58 How Homeowners Should Vet a Pool Designer (Recent Work, Site Visits & References)
39:33 Custom Design Philosophy vs. Copy-Paste Software (And AI Concerns)
42:41 Designing for Real Life: Communal Spaces, Sight Lines & Pool Orientation
45:48 Favorite Part of the Process + Managing Long, Stressful Builds
48:29 Must-Have Feature: Fire Pits, Sunken Seating & Cushion Ergonomics
54:52 One Tip to Avoid Regret: Due Diligence, Similar-Scale Projects & In-Progress Tours
57:23 Rapid-Fire Personal Questions + Monaco/F1 + Vegas Growth (Wrap-Up)
01:01:07 Show Mission & Final Sign-Off
 

Ep 121 The Authentic Home Sauna with Alan the Sauna Ambassador

Mike and Trey Farley sit down with Alan, a sauna expert and ambassador, to discuss the rich history, cultural practices, and health benefits of traditional Finnish saunas. Alan shares his personal sauna journey, starting from infancy, and delves into details about the authentic sauna experience, including the importance of elements like proper ventilation, wood-burning heaters, and the use of birch branches. The conversation also touches on the distinction between traditional saunas and infrared saunas, offering insights into their respective advantages and limitations. Additionally, listeners learn about unique practices like cooking food on sauna rocks and the significance of the thermal cycle. The episode emphasizes the profound mental, physical, and social benefits of regular sauna use, advocating for a deeper appreciation of this ancient wellness tradition.
 
Discover more:
https://kivia.ca/podcast/
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Introduction to Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast
01:23 Meet the Expert: Alan's Sauna Journey
02:04 The Cultural Significance of Sauna
03:11 Growing Up with Sauna: Alan's Personal Story
04:20 Sauna Rituals and Family Traditions
07:51 From Enthusiast to Sauna Ambassador
09:54 Health Benefits and Popularity of Sauna
22:53 Sauna Etiquette and Best Practices
35:01 Sauna Myths and Truths
36:36 Understanding Sauna Duration and Temperature
37:38 Choosing the Right Sauna for Your Needs
39:00 The Social Aspect of Saunas
41:15 Sauna Hats and Their Benefits
41:52 Cooking in the Sauna: A Unique Tradition
43:54 Infrared vs. Traditional Saunas
46:13 Debunking Sauna Myths
47:22 Health Benefits and Studies on Sauna Use
49:36 The Importance of Sauna Experience
54:44 Comparing Saunas to Other Wellness Options
58:53 Traditional Sauna Practices: Birch Branches and Aufguss
01:03:17 Final Thoughts and Future Trends
 

Ep 120 The Plungie Pool Process

Join hosts Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs in an engaging conversation with Ty from Plungie, a manufacturer of prefabricated concrete pools. With a legacy of turning backyards into personal retreats, they explore innovative solutions for adding swimming pools to various spaces, emphasizing efficiency, customization, and affordability. Ty shares insights into the design and installation of Plunge pools, their adaptability for different sites, fast turnaround times, and their applicability for new constructions and smaller backyards. They also discuss pool maintenance, finishes, accessories, and the broader market potential for these unique prefabricated pools.
 
Discover more:
https://plungie.com/en-us/
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Welcome to Luxury Outdoor Living
01:17 Meet the Hosts and Today's Guest
01:48 Ty's Journey and Plunge's Origin
03:22 Plunge Pools: Concept and Design
11:58 Customization and Installation Insights
18:58 Engineering and Strength of Plunge Pools
27:58 Installation and Site Considerations
30:50 Introduction to Skimmer Design
31:14 EcoFinish Application Process
31:45 National Network and Adaptations
32:27 Ordering and Installation Process
35:05 Hydrostat Relief and Fire Provisions
36:58 Cost and Market Expansion
38:55 Customization and Additional Products
46:54 Ideal Customers and Market Niches
56:31 Construction and Installation Tips
57:54 Personal Insights and Conclusion
 

Ep 119 Outdoor Living and Pool Contractor Crimes… What Every Homeowner Needs to Know

Are you planning to transform your backyard into a stunning retreat? Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs, who have over 40 years of experience, share invaluable insights in this episode of the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast. With key topics like why you shouldn't pay for the entire pool up front, the dangers of incomplete contracts, and the importance of accurate 3D modeling, they ensure you avoid common pitfalls. They also touch on the necessity of hydrostats to prevent pools from floating, the repercussions of groundwater issues, and why adhering to proper safety standards for diving entries is crucial. Whether you’re looking at a simple design or a complex resort-style oasis, this episode empowers homeowners to approach their outdoor projects with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
 
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Introduction to Luxury Outdoor Living
01:59 Common Pitfalls in Pool Construction
05:03 Design Firm Payment Practices
06:03 Completion Date Promises
12:12 Variable Speed Pumps and Skimmers
14:09 Importance of 3D Modeling in Pool Design
20:32 Detailed Contracts vs. One-Page Contracts
24:16 Handling Cave-Ins During Construction
29:07 Ensuring Accurate Pool Placement
32:08 Unexpected Pool Construction Challenges
33:25 The First Pebble Tech Pool: A Colorful Misunderstanding
36:39 Understanding Gunite Pools and Rebound Issues
42:35 The Hydrostat: Preventing Pool Floatation Disasters
49:57 Easements and Their Impact on Pool Construction
54:41 Dealing with Underground Streams in Construction
01:00:13 The Dangers of Improper Diving Pool Design
01:03:24 Conclusion and Final Tips for Pool Owners

Ep 118 How to Chose Your Outdoor Living Designer and The Designer’s Fees

Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs delve into the often-debated topic of whether homeowners should pay a design fee for their outdoor living projects. Drawing from their 40 years of industry expertise, they explore the pros and cons of design fees from both consumer and business perspectives. They emphasize the importance of detailed, professional designs to avoid costly mistakes and ensure an efficient, cohesive outcome. They also cover various levels of design services, the role of certification, and how to choose the best designer for your project. The episode aims to provide homeowners with the knowledge to make informed decisions and achieve stunning, functional outdoor spaces.
 
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Welcome to Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast
01:12 Introduction to Today's Topic
01:45 The Debate on Design Fees
03:07 The Value of Professional Design
03:55 Challenges in the Pool Design Industry
05:04 Understanding Design Fees and Client Expectations
06:41 The Importance of Certifications
08:32 Finding the Right Designer
15:22 Certifications and Qualifications in Pool Design
21:36 Navigating Social Media and Reviews
31:14 Design Fees and Consultation Processes
32:38 Understanding Different Types of Consultations
32:50 Site Analysis and Client Expectations
35:50 Conceptual vs. Working Drawings
38:57 Importance of Detailed Specifications
41:07 3D Renderings and Realistic Expectations
46:33 Choosing the Right Designer
52:10 Final Thoughts on Design Fees and Client Relationships
56:12 Conclusion and Additional Resources

Ep 117 Trends for 2026 in Luxury Outdoor Living

In this episode of the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast, Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs delve into the latest trends for 2026 in outdoor living spaces. They discuss the continued popularity of indoor-outdoor transitions, the shift towards year-round outdoor spaces, and the growing trend of small, cozy niches. Key highlights include the rise of portable fire pits, the use of AI in gardening, the preference for multi-functional spaces, and the increasing importance of wellness features like saunas and exercise areas. The episode also covers the evolving preferences in outdoor furniture, the significance of built-in seating and ledge features in pools, and the integration of natural elements and colors in design. Whether it’s about creating versatile outdoor kitchens or implementing dog-friendly zones, Mike and Trey provide valuable insights for homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor retreats.
 
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Welcome to Luxury Outdoor Living
01:12 Introduction to Trends of 2026
05:02 Adapting to Smaller Spaces
07:13 The Importance of Water and Fire Features
13:44 Incorporating Organic and Rustic Modern Designs
24:36 The Rise of Edible Gardens and Wellness Trends
32:58 Griddles and Outdoor Cooking Trends
34:23 The Rise of Outdoor Living Spaces
35:43 Heating and Electrical Considerations
36:43 Outdoor Fridges and Sinks
39:46 AI in Design and Realistic Expectations
46:58 Trends in Outdoor Furniture
50:33 Water Features and Low Maintenance Solutions
52:58 Pet-Friendly Outdoor Spaces
54:54 Trends in Pool Design
01:02:44 Final Thoughts on Outdoor Living
 

Ep 116 The Greenhouse for Plants or a Cozy Retreat with Andrew of Exaco Greenhouses

Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast, hosted by Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs, features Andrew Cook, an expert in European greenhouses. The episode delves into the evolution and intricacies of setting up greenhouses. They discuss design trends, common misconceptions, and unique structures such as polycarbonate and glass greenhouses. Andrew highlights the importance of climate control and building permits, while providing insider tips on greenhouse maintenance, optimal orientation, and the benefits of different greenhouse materials. This episode offers valuable insights for homeowners looking to transform their backyards into productive and beautiful retreats.
 
Discover more:
https://exaco.com/
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Welcome to Luxury Outdoor Living
01:17 Meet Our Special Guest: Andrew Cook
01:36 Andrew's Journey: From the Netherlands to the USA
02:52 The Evolution of EXCO Trading
05:40 Understanding Greenhouses: Basics and Misconceptions
06:55 Greenhouse Materials: Glass vs. Polycarbonate
10:42 Challenges and Solutions in Greenhouse Design
11:48 Customer Experiences and Common Issues
15:07 Greenhouse Maintenance and Practical Tips
19:45 Special Structures and Custom Designs
39:14 Orientation and Climate Considerations
44:15 Manual vs. Automatic Greenhouse Openers
46:14 High-End Greenhouse Options
47:52 Unique Greenhouse Designs
50:19 Popular Greenhouse Sizes and Uses
54:30 Greenhouse Shelving and Hail Resistance
01:00:43 Permit Requirements and HOA Challenges
01:06:35 Greenhouse Resale and Expansion
01:10:29 Personal Insights and Final Thoughts
 

Ep 115 The Outdoor Living Design Process and Features.

This episode is a 2025 recap of the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast with Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs. Over 40 years of expertise is distilled into key episodes covering design trends, insider tips, and transformational outdoor projects. They discuss major episodes from the year, such as design processes, wellness in outdoor spaces, construction insights, and interviews with leading designers and product experts. Topics include wellness features like saunas, site analysis for new projects, handling trees in designs, and the latest in lighting, pool finishes, and unique outdoor products. Listeners are encouraged to share ideas and ask questions, with an emphasis on creating joy, relaxation, and memorable retreats in outdoor living spaces. The episode ends with a holiday greeting and a teaser for new trends in 2026.
 
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Introduction to Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast
01:30 Overview of the Five-Step Process
02:14 Step 1: Defining Your Dream Backyard
04:03 Step 2: Conducting a Site Analysis
06:48 Step 3: Creating Outdoor Living Spaces
09:10 Step 4: Enhancing Aesthetics and Functionality
12:33 Step 5: Designing the Perfect Pool
14:11 Specialized Products and Expert Insights
29:07 Discovering Swimmable Ponds
30:01 Vista Folia: Bringing the Outdoors Inside
31:35 Innovations in Pool Technology with Jandy Flora
33:05 Transforming Backyards with Sports Courts
34:16 Adjustable Patio Covers with George
34:46 Exploring Pebble Tech Pool Finishes
36:00 Trends and Design Challenges in 2025
36:38 Luxury Outdoor Living: Expanding the Podcast's Focus
37:28 Designing for Small Spaces
38:30 The Evolution of the Backyard with Eric Herman
39:52 Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Transitions with Susan Ziman
40:59 Creating Outdoor Bathrooms and Showers
41:48 Integrating Pools with Existing Trees
43:30 Designing for Grandparents and Multi-Generational Spaces
44:37 Fences, Walls, and Screens: Defining Your Space
45:00 Outdoor Living Starter Pack for First-Time Homeowners
46:10 Fun Features for the Backyard
47:01 Backyard Transformations: From Start to Finish
48:40 Wellness in the Backyard: Insights from Experts
53:44 Understanding Concrete Cancer and Construction Challenges
57:04 Regional Design Perspectives: Insights from Across the Country
01:05:19 Looking Ahead: Trends and Inspirations for 2026