Pools & Water Features

Custom Pools for Your Backyard Retreat

Bring pools, spas, and water features together in a space made for relaxing and spending time together.

Pools & Water Features

Your own retreat.
A world of possibilities.

Terra Nova Design Build designs and builds custom swimming pools for homeowners in Montgomery and Howard Counties, Mount Airy and the Frederick area. We help you work through the choices and coordinate the construction, so you can look forward to swimming and enjoying your pool rather than sinking with problems!

Whether a pool is the centerpiece of a complete backyard transformation or a place to spend time with family and friends, we plan it with the surrounding space in mind. We coordinate the design, pool construction and related trades as one project.

Selected Projects

A closer look at life by the water

View Portfolio

The pool connects to a stone pillar that supports a waterfall and fire feature, creating a focal point for the outdoor living space.
The waterfall cascades from a natural stone wall into a pool lined with blue tiles, creating gentle ripples on the surface.
The pool features a stone coping and is bordered by a paver deck with integrated seating areas and steps leading directly into the water
The stone steps lead from the patio down to the pool, while the covered pavilion with a fireplace offers a cozy gathering spot nearby.
The stone patio connects the pool to the covered seating area under the pavilion
The pool and spa are illuminated with blue lighting, creating a serene atmosphere against the colorful sky.
The illuminated pool and surrounding stone patio create a functional outdoor living area with steps leading down to the water feature.
The pool area connects to a covered pavilion with built-in seating and a stone fireplace, creating a complete outdoor living space.
The irregular stone deck connects the swimming pool directly to the integrated spa and adjacent seating areas.
The illuminated pool and spa are surrounded by a stone patio that connects to a covered pavilion with seating
The stone retaining wall supports the landscaping and includes a waterfall that feeds into the pool
The pool area features a stone patio surround with built-in seating and is illuminated by landscape lighting fixtures placed along the walkways and near the
The covered patio connects directly to the multi-tiered pool design, creating a seamless flow between the seating area and water feature.
The pool is surrounded by paver decking and connected to a covered patio area with an outdoor kitchen.
The pool features a built-in waterfall and is surrounded by a stone patio that connects to a covered gazebo area.
The pool deck connects directly to the covered porch and patio seating area, creating a continuous outdoor living space.
The pool features a waterfall that flows into the main basin, surrounded by stone coping and brick pavers on the patio.
The curved stone coping and tiled interior of the spa create a seamless transition between the pool and relaxation zones.
The kidney-shaped pool is surrounded by a paved deck with lounge chairs and a stone retaining wall featuring bar stools.
The pool and spa are surrounded by a paved patio with outdoor seating and an adjacent outdoor kitchen.
The pool connects to a covered seating area across a stone patio, creating a flowing outdoor living space.
The gray flagstone patio connects the house exterior to the kidney-shaped pool and the circular stone spa.
The backyard includes a pool with a waterfall feature, surrounded by a stone patio and lush plantings, creating a serene outdoor living space.
The pool connects to a covered patio with outdoor seating under an umbrella, bordered by a multi-level stone retaining wall that doubles as a waterfall feature.
The geometric paver pattern around the pool connects to the covered pergola area, creating a unified outdoor living zone.
Multiple water jets create movement in the pool, while the surrounding patio and pergola offer shaded seating near the house.
The pool connects to the patio via paved walkways, and the fountain jets add movement to the water surface
The pool area includes a stone waterfall feature and paved patio space for outdoor living.
The space includes a swimming pool, a patio with seating areas, and landscape features like retaining walls and steps that connect different levels of the yard.
The pool area features a stone deck and steps that connect the lounge zone to the water, creating a seamless outdoor living space.
The pool area includes a stone retaining wall and lounge chairs under red umbrellas, creating a shaded seating area for relaxation.
The covered patio extends over the pool deck, creating a shaded outdoor living space connected to the backyard.
The still water surface mirrors the autumn trees and blue sky, creating a serene atmosphere in this residential backyard.
The pool deck connects to a raised patio with steps leading down to the water, creating a multi-level outdoor living area.
The raised spa section connects to the main pool area, creating a multi-level outdoor living space with seating ledges.
The pool connects to a stone waterfall that flows into the main basin, creating a multi-level water feature area.
The image shows a spacious outdoor living area centered around a clear blue pool, with a covered gazebo providing shade and seating at the back of the yard.
The gazebo features cushioned seating inside and is supported by columns, with warm light glowing from within against the dark sky.
The pool is surrounded by a paver deck and backed by a stacked stone retaining wall, creating a structured outdoor living space.
The pool connects directly to the expansive paver patio, creating a seamless outdoor living area enhanced by adjacent garden beds.
This blue aggregate finish creates a textured surface that complements natural elements like tree branches and sky reflections in a residential outdoor setting.
The pool connects to an integrated hot tub with bubbling water, surrounded by a paved stone patio area that extends to a seating zone under an umbrella.
The pool is surrounded by a brick patio and shaded lounge areas with large umbrellas.
The pool area connects to the patio through steps and includes a covered seating area under the gazebo for outdoor living.
The pool features blue tile accents and is surrounded by a stone deck with herringbone patterning, while the adjacent hot tub offers a curved entry point for
The pool deck connects directly to the raised platform where the gazebo is located, creating a continuous flow between the water feature and the shaded seating
The stone patio surrounds the rectangular pool and connects to the house steps
This image shows a pool and patio area designed for outdoor living.
The pool is bordered by a multi-toned stone deck that connects to a covered seating area with outdoor furniture.
The waterfall cascades over stacked stones into the pool, creating a serene outdoor living space.
The waterfall design creates three distinct cascades that feed into the pool area below
The hot tub features beige coping that connects seamlessly to the surrounding pool deck, creating a unified outdoor living space.
The pool area includes a waterfall feature and is surrounded by patio seating.
The pool and spa feature a rock waterfall and are set in a backyard surrounded by trees, with lounge chairs and a pergola nearby.
The patio area connects directly to the pool deck, creating a seamless outdoor living space.
The empty swimming pool is surrounded by a paved deck and features a rock stack near the fence.
The pool's irregular shape and smooth finish create a unique focal point in this outdoor living space, complemented by the neatly arranged paver deck.
The pool area features a curved edge and is surrounded by paver stone, with lounge chairs and an umbrella for shade. The sky conditions appear calm, reflecting
The image displays a swimming pool with a natural stone finish and a multi-level paver patio, ideal for homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor
The fenced backyard includes a pool surrounded by paver decking and young trees planted near the fence line to provide future shade
The pool connects to the house via a concrete walkway, and lounge chairs are arranged on the deck for seating
The image displays a section of a pool border featuring ornamental tiles set into a rough-textured concrete base.
The patio extends across the yard with a curved edge near the flower beds and connects directly to the pool deck.
The covered porch connects to the pool deck, offering shaded seating near the water feature.
The stone patio extends along the side of the pool where the diving board is mounted.
The stacked stone retaining wall adds structure to the backyard landscape architecture near the pool edge tiling.
The pool deck connects to a multi-level terrace built with stone retaining walls, creating a layered outdoor living space that maximizes the backyard's usable
The paved patio connects directly to the pool area, creating a continuous outdoor living space.
The pool area features a stone coping around the edges and an integrated outdoor kitchen with a stone bar, creating a seamless transition between the water
The waterfalls integrate the pool with the landscape architecture.
The paved patio surrounds the swimming pool and connects to the house, creating an outdoor living space with a stone counter and seating area near the water
The rectangular pool is surrounded by flagstone decking and connects to a covered seating area under the pergola.
The pool features water jets and is surrounded by a paved patio with stone detailing

Pool and patio area with a covered pavilion featuring a fireplace — Consider every detail.Make the space your own.

The Possibilities

Pools, Spas and Water Features

Custom in-ground pools in any shape
Spas and raised spas
Waterfalls, scuppers and deck jets
Pool decking and coping in stone or pavers
Pool lighting and landscape lighting
Pavilions, outdoor kitchens and fire features beside the pool
Automation and control systems
Safety features for families with children and pets

Design / Build / Enjoy

A clear plan. A complete transformation.

Our Full Process

Design around your life

Every pool project starts with how you want to use your backyard. We work through the pool layout, surrounding patio and connections to the house with you, bringing the features together in a design that suits your property.

See it before we build

Our 3D renderings let you review the pool, patio and surrounding features together before construction. You can discuss changes while the design is taking shape. We also coordinate the project requirements with the relevant local jurisdiction before the work proceeds.

Bring it all together

We work with trusted pool construction partners, some with more than 50 years in the industry. As your prime contractor, we coordinate their work with the rest of your backyard project. We can also explain the warranty information for the equipment and finishes you choose.

Made for Your Life

Safety and Peace of Mind

Tell us about children, pets, accessibility needs and any concerns you have about using the pool. We discuss these during design, alongside the safety barriers, access and other requirements for your project.

More Time to Enjoy

Smart, Low-Maintenance Systems

Automation can make everyday pool operation easier, with controls you can monitor from a smartphone or tablet. We can walk you through energy-efficient equipment and available cleaning systems, including patented cleaning options, to help you choose what fits your pool and care routine.

Care beyond the build

We can help arrange pool opening, closing and ongoing care through trusted service companies. These partners can be involved from the initial fill, so they know your pool and its equipment. If you prefer to maintain it yourself, we can discuss the care routine for the system you choose.

How long does a custom swimming pool project typically take in Maryland?

Your schedule depends on the design, site access, engineering, permit review, material availability and weather. We discuss these stages during planning and set a project-specific schedule before construction. A pool with a pavilion, kitchen or extensive masonry needs a different plan from a simpler installation.

What permits and zoning regulations are required in Montgomery and Howard Counties?

Pool plans in Montgomery County and Howard County need review for the property and the work proposed. Pool location, drainage, safety barriers, utilities and any additional structures can affect permits and inspections. Identify these requirements early rather than relying on a single setback or fence dimension for every property.

What pool finishes and coping materials hold up best in Maryland’s freeze-thaw climate?

We consider the pool finish, coping and surrounding terrace together, including their suitability for Maryland's freeze-thaw conditions, surface comfort and maintenance needs. Material choices and installation details should suit the specific site. Automation does not replace the equipment manufacturer's seasonal care instructions.

Do you handle pool opening, winterization, and regular maintenance?

Discuss pool opening, winterization and ongoing maintenance during the design stage so there is a clear care plan for the equipment and finishes you choose. Keep the operating instructions, service contacts and warranty information together. Automation can make operation easier, but a pool still needs regular attention.

Who manages the construction on my property each day?

Owner Grant Rewega closely manages Terra Nova projects, with the trades coordinated under one prime contractor. During planning, we discuss project communication, access to your property and how questions or changes will be handled, so you know whom to contact as the work progresses.