The International Pool & Spa Expo witnessed a spectacle this year as Brad Holley’s Miami Vice-inspired design took center stage at the Million Dollar Pool Challenge. Holley’s innovative approach and captivating design not only wowed the judges but left an indelible mark on the pool and spa industry.

In an exclusive interview with Brad Holley, he shared insights into his unconventional journey into the world of pool and spa design. Holley had no formal education in design before joining the industry. His foray into the field began while working in commercial construction, where he started using SketchUp as a hobby.

Holley’s turning point occurred when he stumbled upon a job listing for a design assistant position with the legendary Randy Angell. “I spent eight and a half years being mentored by Randy Angell, and that really was my education,” Holley explained. “He taught me everything that I know, kind of taught me how to see the world through his eyes and how to come up with designs.”

Miami Vice Inspiration

The captivating design showcased at the Million Dollar Pool Challenge drew inspiration from the iconic Miami Vice theme. Holley infused elements of fun into his creation, cleverly incorporating the show’s intro credits into the video presentation. The whimsical touch provided a unique and engaging perspective, setting his entry apart from the competition.

Reflecting on the development of his concept, Holley shared the challenges he faced initially. “I usually can see a space and figure out just a general direction to go in with my design. But I was completely stumped and just lost for quite a while,” he admitted. However, he found inspiration in unexpected places, particularly in the lifestyle description of the hypothetical clients, who had a penchant for yachting.

A Deeper Dive Into Brad Holley’s Design

The journey into Holley’s vision begins with the front approach and the driveway. Holley introduces a unique address block monument sign that doubles as a bench seat, creatively lit with the contestant number “42-10.” The driveway, adorned with geometric polygons, features channels lit from underneath, covered with acrylic panels, creating a vibrant display of colors at night. Holley’s Miami Vice-inspired palette of pale blue, pale pink, and white sets the tone for the entire design.

Ascending the steps, visitors encounter a shallow fountain area with a sunken planter box, creating the illusion of water pouring into an infinite loop. A hanging day bed adds a touch of relaxation and sets the stage for the Latin art masterpiece—a steel panel portraying the silhouette of a woman’s face, backlit with fire, creating a captivating nighttime effect.

Creating a Vibe With Water Features

As the journey continues, the walls surrounding the backyard come into focus, showcasing a harmonious blend of stucco and laser-cut steel panels. The double-layered steel panels offer an organic and meshy feel, adding a dynamic element to the design. Entering through a centered hinge gate with off-center hinges, visitors are greeted by the splash pad area.

The splash pad features a striking two-headed Aztec serpent, reimagined in 3D, spitting water from both sides and complemented by jets and scupper elements. The 360-degree acrylic circular spa, with its raised perimeter overflow and acrylic exterior, presents a unique design challenge that Holley ingeniously addresses by incorporating raised back support walls for spa jets.

The pool area unfolds with a perimeter overflow beam, a large wet deck hosting four ledge loungers, and a mirrored wet deck on the opposite side with two hanging cocoon chairs. A cantilevered fire feature adds a touch of drama, suspended over the water. A swim-up bar, featuring an acrylic wall, allows a transparent view to the dry side. Between two hanging chairs, palm trees protrude through a halo-shaped cutout in the structure, creating a stunning visual.

An Oasis For Entertainment

Ascending the stairs to the second floor of the structure, visitors encounter a lounging and entertaining space, a putting green, and bar seating lit from underneath. The second-floor design provides an elevated perspective of the palm tree canopies, adding a touch of nature to the luxury setting. To access this oasis, visitors must cross over the lazy river, navigating dual bridges adorned with Latin-inspired diode mortise skulls in pink, white, and blue.

The lazy river, encircling a sunken fire pit island, flows in a closed loop style under the bridges and around the fire pit. The entire scene creates a seamless blend of water and fire elements, offering a unique and immersive experience.

Moving away from the pool area to the covered patio, Holley faced a significant challenge: the design could not be attached to the home. Undeterred, he introduced a bar island with its own standalone structure, topped with a semi-shade steel structure. Synthetic green walls, cascading over the support beam, create a lush and inviting atmosphere, cleverly augmented by pendant lighting.

Overcoming Challenges

When asked about the key elements that proved most challenging to incorporate into his design, Holley humorously replied, “Short answer, everything.” He acknowledged the common struggle among contestants to fit the extensive wishlist into the allotted space. The lot size itself posed a challenge as participants grappled with the initial impression of ample space, only to find it quickly diminishing.

“The lot size was really deceiving. You thought you had a lot to work with, and then as you start putting real elements in place, you realize how small it gets,” Holley revealed.

Peer Recognition

Despite initial uncertainties, Holley received positive feedback on his Miami Vice inspired design. Reflecting on the competition, he admitted feeling intimidated by the outstanding work presented by other finalists. “As soon as I saw all of the other submissions sitting there at the final judging, I was already mentally preparing myself for fifth place,” he confessed.

Holley expressed gratitude and admiration for his fellow competitors, emphasizing the high level of skill and creativity displayed by all. “Everybody brought outstanding work,” he acknowledged.

Celebrating The Best of the Best

As we celebrate Brad Holley’s success, it’s essential to recognize the efforts of the organizers, Mike Farley and Reid Schindler, who orchestrated the annual Million Dollar Pool Challenge. The competition not only showcases exceptional talent but also provides a platform for industry professionals to push the boundaries of pool and spa design.

Holley’s victory comes with additional perks, including a $10,000 cash prize courtesy of River Flow by Current Systems and a coveted spot on the judges’ panel in 2024. The recognition of winning the Million Dollar Pool Design challenge  not only acknowledges his prowess but also positions Holley as a rising star in the industry, poised to contribute further to the world of pool and spa design.

Listen to our entire conversation with Brad Holley on the Pool Magazine podcast.

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