Watercrest Pools Named Among the World's Greatest Pools
Two North Texas projects, The Modern Southlake Retreat and The Bartonville Estate, receive 2026 recognition for thoughtful design, craftsmanship and exceptional outdoor living.
DALLAS-FORT WORTH, TEXAS — [8/19/2026] — Watercrest Pools is proud to announce that two of its custom pool projects have been recognized among the 2026 World’s Greatest Pools.
The Modern Southlake Retreat and The Bartonville Estate showcase two distinctly different approaches to luxury outdoor living. One creates a serene, welcoming environment designed for generations of family to enjoy together, while the other delivers a sophisticated architectural retreat with resort-inspired amenities.
For Watercrest, the recognition reflects the importance of creating outdoor spaces that are not only beautiful, but thoughtfully designed around the people who use them.
The Modern Southlake Retreat
Elegant and understated, The Modern Southlake Retreat allows the water to remain the focal point of the backyard. A formal spa spillway establishes a refined presence, while integrated benches, ledges and thoughtfully planned access points bring both function and beauty to the design. A high-end planter bowl water feature adds a natural element and completes the setting.
The design was created with the homeowners and their family in mind. The couple wanted a beautiful and safe place for their grandchildren to swim and spend time together, inspiring the incorporation of multiple ledges and benches that provide easy entry into the pool as well as resting areas throughout the space.
The result is a serene retreat that can transition effortlessly from quiet relaxation to gatherings with family and friends.
This pool was designed and built by Watercrest Pools in Southlake, Texas.
The Bartonville Estate
The Bartonville Estate takes a distinctly modern and architectural approach. Clean, straight-line geometry defines the pool, complemented by a refined material palette and leathered marble decking that introduces a soft, natural texture to the sleek design.
A zero-edge spa integrates seamlessly into the pool, while three fire-and-water bowls along the rear wall create a striking focal point with movement and warmth. At the back of the property, a cold plunge with a waterfall wall sits alongside a sauna, transforming the outdoor space into a private, spa-like retreat.
A dedicated fire pit seating area completes the environment, creating a balanced setting designed for both relaxation and gathering.
This pool was designed and built by Watercrest Pools in Bartonville, Texas.
Two Projects, Two Distinct Visions
While The Modern Southlake Retreat and The Bartonville Estate differ in style and purpose, both reflect the Watercrest approach to custom pool design: thoughtful details, intentional planning and a close connection between the outdoor environment and the way each homeowner wants to live.
From family-centered spaces designed for generations to enjoy together to sophisticated outdoor retreats that bring the feeling of a private resort home, each project is shaped around a distinct vision.
Watercrest is honored to see The Modern Southlake Retreat and The Bartonville Estate recognized among the 2026 World’s Greatest Pools, and grateful to the homeowners who entrusted the Watercrest team with bringing these visions to life.
About Watrecrest Pools
Watercrest Pools is a luxury custom pool builder serving Dallas–Fort Worth and North Texas. The company creates custom swimming pools and outdoor living environments designed around each property’s architecture, the surrounding landscape and the way its homeowners live.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Watercrest's Award-Winning Pools
What are the World's Greatest Pools 2026?
The Pebble Technology’s World’s Greatest Pools competition recognizes exceptional pool projects for their design, craftsmanship and overall outdoor living experience. In 2026, two Watercrest Pools projects, The Modern Southlake Retreat and The Bartonville Estate, were recognized among the World’s Greatest Pools.
Which Watercrest Pools projects were named among the World's Greatest Pools?
Two Watercrest custom pool projects received 2026 recognition: The Modern Southlake Retreat in Southlake, Texas, and The Bartonville Estate in Bartonville, Texas. Each project showcases a distinct approach to luxury pool design, from a serene multigenerational retreat to a sophisticated modern estate.
What makes The Modern Southlake Retreat an award-winning pool?
The Modern Southlake Retreat combines understated elegance with thoughtful, family-focused design. Integrated benches, ledges and carefully planned access points make the pool welcoming for multiple generations, while a formal spa spillway and custom water and planter bowls create a refined outdoor setting.
What features make The Bartonville Estate a standout luxury pool?
The Bartonville Estate features clean architectural lines, leathered marble decking, a zero-edge spa, custom fire-and-water bowls, a cold plunge with a waterfall wall, a sauna and a dedicated fire pit gathering area. Together, these elements create a sophisticated resort-style outdoor living environment.
Does Watercrest Pools build award-winning custom pools in Dallas-Fort Worth?
Yes. Watercrest Pools designs and builds luxury custom pools and outdoor living spaces throughout Dallas-Fort Worth and North Texas. The recognition of The Modern Southlake Retreat and The Bartonville Estate among the 2026 World’s Greatest Pools reflects Watercrest’s commitment to thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship and highly personalized outdoor environments.
