With tight budgets the rule around the country, many operators may feel stuck with what they have. But you can dramatically change your indoor facility’s appearance for a small sum by following these five tips:

1. Go toward the light
Light plays a huge factor in how your pool is perceived. If your facility has burned-out bulbs, dingy Plexiglas or simply not enough light, increase the lighting.

Your area’s bathing code may require a certain level of light. Generally, bathing codes range from 35 to 100 lumens per square foot. You will need to determine proper lighting vs. glare. Glare may present difficulty for your lifeguards when conducting scanning and thus can be a real safety issue.

The positioning of lights, windows, skylights and lifeguard stations is paramount for safety.

2. Pour on the paint
A fresh coat of paint can alter a facility’s appearance drastically. You may want to change colors or patterns if you have bare walls.

If you have a mascot, or a swim team that uses your facility and they have a logo, you may want to add it to show your support of the community.

A contour depth line is another great way to add color and provide patrons with the reality of water depth. Just mirror the water depth on the wall along the length of the pool. Post depth in feet at corresponding deck markers.

Another alternative, a mural, can create the illusion of more space and really provide new energy to the facility.

3. Plant yourself
If you have the maintenance abilities, add live plants in corners or large sections of deck. Ensure that the plants do not obscure guards’ scanning of patrons. Also make sure that the plants are nonpoisonous.

Artificial plants add color, are low maintenance, and look very real nowadays.

If you’re worried about the plants falling over, simply secure them to the wall at three-fourths of the plant’s height.

4. Make a clean sweep
This is often an overlooked solution when it comes to sprucing up your facility. Simply clean stainless steel and maybe even apply a coat of car wax. (Be sure to test this and make sure it is not a slip hazard.) Remove buildup of stains (rust, lime, calcium, soap scum, oils) on decks and walls.

Remember that first impressions can mean everything, especially when it comes to cleanliness.

5. Add and update
Simple amenities such as water basketball hoops, water polo goals, and water volleyball nets can add new energy to any facility.

Replace older units when their age affects the appearance of your “new” facility.

If your pool decks are wide enough — generally the minimum is 4’ width in indoor facilities (check local codes) — add chairs and tables. This promotes social gatherings.

Remember, if your patrons feel welcome, the facility gets higher use rates. After all, you are paying for the pool 24/7 in any case. Pumps, filters and chemicals are used regardless of the pool hours. Aesthetics are fiscal responsibility, too.