There are several different ways you could go at it. If you want to keep it easy to convert back to "swimming pool" and keep the cost down for both factors, here are some suggestions. Leave the color as is, the blue isn't that big a problem with algae and a black swimming pool might not be as easy to sell. Some shade for the pool will help against the algae as well as would having it coated in black. Let the water age to get rid of the chlorine. (What source of water do you have for re-filling if you were to need to do any water changes? If you have city water with chloramine you might need to look into some water conditioner.) What is your existing pool pump/equipment? In some arrangements, you could simply continue using the existing pump/filter. Or you could shut down and drain (like for winter storage the pump and sand filter, if you do this properly, the equipment can be hooked back up when wanted for a pool again.) Then you can get a submersible pond pump and a bio falls basin. Put the pump in the pool and hook up to the bio-falls basin sitting on the edge of the pool and you are set to go for small numbers of fish. Add some aquatic plants (make sure they are in large plant baskets with gravel, no dirt.) Place potted plants around the falls tub to dress it up a bit and away you go. Now this might not turn your swimming pool into a perfect ornamental pond but it is the cheap way to do it. Make sure to choose an energy efficient pump as you will probably be running it 24/7. In warm water you need to keep it flowing or the fish can run out of O2. It is best to start out with smaller numbers of smaller fish and keep the feeding light until the system has stabilized. Now if you want to make it really fancy, it will of course get more complex and costly. If you want large or lots of fish, then you will definitely need to learn more about Aquaponics, bio filtration, fish keeping etc. Here is a link that might be useful: www.TCLynx.com

I am sure this blog has clarified all your decisions for you, but if not, just get 5 more quotes from pool companies and you'll be just as enlightened as you are now. Rather than concentrate on the specifics of a pool e.g. filtes, pumps, etc. Concentrate on the business you are buying from. Check how long they have been in business, how many complaints they have had on the BBB and pay particular attention to unresolved complaints. Does the pool company have a service department and a retail store to support you when you need help? The pool company has to live with your pool after the sale and they want to sell you a package they can support. My personal belief is that if you choose a reputable pool company (do your homework) and feel comfortable with the sales rep, you should let them recommend what components will go into the pool. To a very large extent, your budget will determine which type of construction will be employed in your project. Vinyl being the best value, gunite or shotcrete being the most versatile in design, and fiberglass with a shorter construction time. Technology has made great strides in the pool business particularly in sanitation, finishes, pool chemistry, and construction materials; they are better than ever. The swimming pool today can be a sparkling clear, forever clean compliment to your home.

Swim spa makers have been coming and going for a long time. They have the same issues as regular portable spas. Pumps, seals, jets springing leaks, heater elements, swtiches and electronics, expensive to repair... A swim spa is a real pool with similar care requirements. A small fiberglass pool with Badu jets in an enclosure might be worth looking at. They come in two or three jet configurations. The three jet units would press my teenage daughter to her limits (competitive swimmer) while a two jet system would work well for me (nearing 50 year old man). There are other current generators out there but I know the Speck system well enough to say I like it and would buy it if I was in the market for it. Scott

I consider lilacs to be small trees. For starters, you might look at things like ornamental grasses. Many of these grow fast and give a nice air to the pool environment. Also check the the forum that applies to your geographical area as many of those folks are knowledgeable about specific plants for your area.