Category 1
Aesthetic Quality
- Overall look and technique executed on the 2D plan — does it read as something a high-end client would expect?
- Supporting graphics, video, and presentation materials communicate detail the 2D drawing can't.
Contest Rules
What we need.How we judge.
A clear brief, an anonymous review, and a live audience. Here's exactly what to submit and how the judges will score it.
Eligibility
Who can enter?
Individuals · Students · Teams · Companies
Teams are limited to 4 individuals. Only one representative will be supplied with airfare, hotel room, and per diem.
What We Need From You
Required deliverables
Every submission is reviewed anonymously in the first round. Do not put your name or your company on any plans or renderings.
Scaled 2D Plan
Rendered with media of choice. Major emphasis is placed on the presentation and detail of the 2D plan.
Up to 8 Supporting Graphics
Rendered with media of choice. Judged on quality of workmanship and effective, unique design — not quantity.
Written Design Narrative
A paragraph no greater than 500 words detailing your design process and/or explanations of solution details.
Optional
Bring more if you have it
Optional pieces let you tell a fuller story — but judging weighs quality and clarity above sheer volume.
Flythrough Video
Two minute maximum, .mp4 or .mov format.
3D Physical Model
Or other unique presentation support to elevate your submission.
Fine Print
Anonymous Judging
The designer and company remain anonymous to the judges until the initial judging process is complete.
Shared Usage Rights
Designs and videos become co-property of The Million Dollar Pool Challenge once submitted and may be distributed to electronic and print outlets. Owners may also distribute their own materials.
Forum Updates Apply
All updates and clarifications discussed in the challenge forum will apply to final judging.
Judging Criteria
A panel of 6–8 industry experts.Four scored dimensions.
Every entry is scored on a point-based system across four categories. Live audience voting decides the final on stage at the PSP Expo.
Category 2
Differentiation
- Thoughtful use of materials and features that complement the home and respond to the owners' wants and needs.
- Creative integration of the requested program elements — outdoor living, guest structures, arrival experience, recreation, and gathering spaces.
- Unique treatment of project areas: front entry, backyard, transitional spaces, and secondary structures.
- Distinctive response to site conditions, natural features, and topography.
Category 3
Functionality
- Pool and home architecture flow seamlessly.
- Outdoor spaces flow well together and are drawn to scale.
- Design accommodates the client's largest gatherings of 25–100 guests.
- Client's main wants and needs are incorporated effectively.
- Great views from the home are maintained.
Category 4
Realization Possibility
- Design meets national and local safety and construction codes.
- An engineer would stamp off on the design and execution.
- The presentation could sell a client spending a minimum of $1 million on a backyard.
Think you have what it takes?
Submit your design and compete with the best watershape designers in the industry — live at the International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo.
Enter The Challenge