An in-ground hot tub should have thoughtfully arranged plantings around it to help it blend into its environment. More and more homeowners are drawn to designs that create the sense of stepping into a pond that is part of the natural landscape. If this appeals to you, you can even take it a step further by building an adjacent pond filled with fresh water plants that truly create a genuine pond-like feel.

It can be tempting to locate hot tubs or spas right up against the walls of a house so they are conveniently located next to mudrooms, bathrooms, etc., but in doing so, they can seem out of place, much like an old sofa sitting on a front porch. Ideally you want your tub or spa to be part of the architectural landscape. I am not suggesting you forego convenience, but rather that you search for a location that serves function and fits in with the overall topography. Use your imagination: is there a divot in your property, a place where naturally flowing water from a stream might leave a little pond? If so, that would be a perfect place for a hot tub.

You can create a built-in feeling with above-ground hot tubs through tiered decking that hides the depth of the hot tub or with vines growing on a trellis and other forms of foliage and landscaping that camouflage the mundane mechanics of the tub.

To further achieve a natural look, consider one of the newer models that are made to look like carved stone or are made of recycled materials. Surround the spa with elements from nature, such as river rocks, teak or Ipe wood, all of which provide a safe and rot-resistant environment.

If you want to take a very literal approach, you might consider a Japanese tub which is simply an oversized wooden barrel with metal bands. Filled with hot, hot water, Japanese tubs do not have jets so they offer a much more primitive and rustic experience.

In addition to considering where to place your hot tub or spa, there are also other factors to consider:

Maintenance and operation
Many of the newer spas and hot tubs feature sophisticated bio-control systems that let you avoid the old-fashioned method of heavy, harsh chlorination. Check out http://www.pure stcolloids.com or http://ww w.thenaturalsolutionusa.com for information on these alternatives to keeping your water clean and "green." The sophisticated plumbing systems of modern tubs and spas require occasional maintenance, however, so be sure to keep that in mind when considering the style you choose and your overall budget.

Heating
It is a good idea to have a separate heating unit for a hot tub. Doing so not only reduces the draw on your household gas and/or electricity, but also enables you to take advantage of new energy-saving alternatives. Advances such as solar panels through which tap water can run before reaching the water heater reduce the amount of fuel required to bring the water to the full hot tub temperature.

You might also consider a separate wood or pellet stove to heat the tub. They are very efficient and heat so well that some people are using them to heat their entire homes. Some of these options may not be permitted in your area, so always consult with your local building department before venturing into alternative heating systems.

Amenities
If you want your hot tub or spa to be part of a larger outdoor experience, consider its placement in relation to an outdoor bar or kitchen. Keep in mind, however, that although it is tempting to have it near these uses, the ideal hot tub or spa experience should be somewhat secluded. Consider the use of subtle screening and lighting to provide a measure of privacy and serenity and to help keep the experience somewhat set apart from these more public spaces.

Most importantly, don't forget that hot tubs and spas can present a drowning hazard. Hot tubs and spas are not required by law to be fenced, but they must be covered. Covers not only prevent accidental drownings, but also prevent unwanted, bugs, leaves, etc. from getting into the tub.

As is true of nearly all home design and improvement projects, creating your ideal hot tub or spa environment can be done in stages. If you already have a backyard pool, plan to incorporate the placement of the hot tub into the right space in your backyard landscape. If you are limited to a patio or deck on which to place the tub, think about ways, whether through tiered decking or strategically placed plantings, that you can eventually integrate the tub gracefully. The ultimate goal is to have an environment that is natural and relaxing, just like Mother Nature's own mineral spring spas.