Andy Kaner is one of the few pool and landscape designers who has achieved the pinnacle. Kaner is an award-winning pool design and instructor at Genesis. This leading platform for pool professionals offers a wide range of education. His journey has been remarkable. Recently, we had the pleasure of meeting Kaner to discuss his career and the philosophy of his company, as well as a truly amazing pool project.
Career Luxury Pools
Kaner’s career in landscape and pool design is one of passion and evolution. Kaner began his career after earning a master’s in landscape architecture at Florida International University. He initially worked for a local firm of landscape architects. He was inspired by the work of renowned designer Brian Van Bower.
Andy recalls, “I began to study pool design and fell in love with it. I gravitated towards it.” I worked for Brian at Aquatic Consultants over a period of many years. Now I own and run the company that he founded.”
Kaner learned about Genesis through Van Bower. He explains that “Brian, Skip Philips, and David Tisherman were all founders of Genesis.” They started Genesis to fill a void in the industry. It was a great experience to attend their classes. I learned about a new field in pool design, one that I had never heard of or studied in landscape architecture. In these classes I learned how to operate pools and hydraulics. “There were classes in color theory, design and drawing, and I was just blown away.”
The Differentiating factor
Kaner believes that Aquatic Consultants’ success is due to a combination of service excellence and design excellence. Kaner’s firm ensures that they are always available and responsive to clients, while maintaining a commitment to deliver on their promises.
Kaner says, “We offer a high-quality service to our customers.” We answer the phone when someone wants to speak to Andy. There’s no problem. We answer emails promptly. We are on top of our projects. “We also do what we promise.”
The company’s design approach is also meticulous and innovative. Andy says, “I believe we are successful because we consider the entire space.” We’re not only thinking about the hole in ground with water. But we’re also considering the landscape and outdoor living space.
Kaner’s clientele includes celebrities, businessmen, and professional athletes. He says they have high expectations. “We offer a high-level of service. We back it up with good design and details. “I think that those two things have made us as successful as they are today.”
Collaborating with Dream Pools
Kaner stresses the importance of understanding the unique lifestyle and preferences of each client when it comes to realizing their pool visions.
He says that “every client is different.” “But we don’t have a set formula to follow when it comes to the way we work.” We get the initial phone call, and we then try to understand the client’s goals or desires. We then add to the original concept. We base our initial concepts on the client’s personality and the direction they are looking for.
New Boundaries for Pool Design
Kaner has a portfolio full of stunning pool projects. However, one project in particular stands out because of its innovation and magnificence. It is located in St. Thomas. This project was created in collaboration with Design Lab, and exceptional pool builder Mike Fuller. It has become a benchmark for luxury swimming pool design.
Andy explains, “The project consists of a perimeter spa overflow or vanishing-edge pool, but is elevated due to a lazy waterway that circles the entire pool.” The upper level has a full-blown swimming pool, a shallow lounge area and a perimeter spa. The spa is connected to a bridge which is a shallow lounge area that walks above the lazy river below it.
The location of the pool is spectacular. It’s on the water and has killer ocean views. Andy says, “It’s in Virgin Islands so there is a bit of mountain scenery behind you.” It’s located on a property which used to be an old rum-distillery. They had big sugar mills and still have remnants of the rum distillery.
A Master of Both Worlds
The debate between digital and analog methods in pool design is one that has been going on for decades. Andy Kaner believes that while clients expect digital presentations, it is important to master both ends of spectrum.
“Now when you make a presentation, yes.” Andy admits, “I think clients expect something more digital.” As far as presentation is concerned, the sketching or all that stuff we do they never see. The original sketching is usually done on a piece of trash paper, over a site map. “Once we are happy with the design, it is immediately transferred to CAD.”
A Legacy of Education
Andy Kaner is not only known for his beautiful pool designs but also for his contribution to education. Andy Kaner’s role as an educator at Genesis, and his commitment to educating the next generation pool professionals shows his dedication to his craft.
He says that he imparts the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the complicated world of landscape and pool design through courses such as ‘Drawing for Professionals’. It’s an in-person, hands-on class. We use sketch paper and a T-square. We are using scales and drawing templates that guide you through the entire process. If you have never drawn before, or are new to the concepts, this is a great way to get started without feeling nervous or hesitant. It’s easy to learn and gives you a solid foundation.
Andy Kaner’s journey is ultimately a testament to passion, education and creativity. His design firm is a model of excellence. It provides unmatched service, innovative design and a wide range of services to clients who demand the best. We are reminded by the stunning pools that he has created that a pool in the hands a true artist can transform into a work of art that transcends the passage of time.
Jimi Smith Photography HTML0
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