The Journey So Far
I’m originally from Hackettstown, New Jersey, a small town known as the home of the M&M factory, where I worked packaging candies in my early twenties. Since entering the swimming pool industry in the early 1990s, my career has taken me across the country, including South Carolina, Vermont, Alabama, Kansas City, and Phoenix, where I met my wife. After spending more than 20 years in Greenville, South Carolina, I recently relocated to the Charleston area and am proud to be part of the Heritage Pools team.
My Passion & Purpose
This year marks my 33rd year in the swimming pool industry. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of helping hundreds of families create outdoor spaces where memories are made. Today, I’m excited to bring that experience to the Lowcountry, designing custom pools that complement Charleston’s unique landscapes, soil conditions, and coastal lifestyle.
My passion for pools began when I was six years old. My parents built an inground pool so our family could enjoy swimming at home rather than in the local river. Out of four children, I was always the one who practically lived in the pool first one in and last one out, regardless of the weather. Years later, while helping maintain our family pool, my father noticed my enthusiasm and suggested I look into the pool industry. I joined a startup pool company, and what began as a job quickly became a lifelong career.
Building Connections That Last
My goal is simple: create a backyard that exceeds expectations and becomes a source of enjoyment for years to come. In addition to pool design and sales, I have hands-on experience in construction, pool systems, and water chemistry. My background in mechanical drawing has also played an important role in helping me create functional, accurate, and visually appealing designs.
What I Value Most
Over the past three decades, I’ve designed and built more than 700 pools throughout South Carolina. Few things are more rewarding than seeing a family experience their completed pool for the first time and knowing their vision has become reality.
Design Details That Inspire Me
My favorite features are water elements such as waterfalls, sheer descents, bubblers, and illuminated water features. The movement, sound, and lighting effects create an atmosphere that transforms a backyard into something truly special.
A Glimpse Into Who I Am
When I’m not designing pools, I enjoy photographing Lowcountry sunsets over the marshes, exploring Charleston’s rich history, and spending time outdoors. I’m especially fascinated by the Civil War era and never pass up an opportunity to enjoy fresh local seafood—particularly a great bowl of she-crab soup.
I look forward to helping Lowcountry families create their own backyard paradise—a place where they can relax, entertain, and make lasting memories around a beautiful custom pool for years to come.
Testimonials
My Dream Pool Come True
My dream pool is WAAAY better than I could have imagined! David was the designer, and he designed the most beautiful pool and surrounding area…it’s like a private oasis! Nino was the project manager, and he not only communicated with me and gave me his cell, but responded quickly to any question I had. He was friendly and very detail oriented He was very involved in every aspect of the build, and takes great pride in high quality work. Mackenzie is our coordinator and I think we’ll be friends for life. She walked me through each step from permitting to pool school, and never got tired of my questions. She even helped me find the cutest pool floats! The whole process was clearly explained, timeline was followed very closely(weather only affected slightly), communication throughout was excellent, and every person who came to work at our home was respectful and hardworking. I have had the most amazing experience with Heritage Pools! Highly recommend.
Personal Attention Every Step of the Way
I had such a great experience with Heritage that I’ve told them they can share my contact info if you want details. In a world of big business where customer service and personal attention can feel non- existent, this locally owned business shines. I approached my pool selection as if I was bidding a construction job at work in two phases based first on quality of design and then, after narrowing the list, I looked at price. Heritage was in the top two in both design and price assessments. I ultimately went with Heritage because from the first interaction the designer, David, was responsive, listened, and kept his word on every detail. Mackenzie kept me informed along the way and was flexible with my crazy schedule. Nino executed the construction flawlessly and responded immediately to fix the one small issue I had with a sidewalk the same week. Again, so responsive. And now their service team is just as customer centered. Andrew, Cody, and, most recently, Wendell have answered questions, taught me, and been friendly and always helpful. I used names intentionally - how many companies do you know that communicate and respond so well that you know them all by name. I am a person that notices detail and insists that things be done well. I can’t say enough nice things and love my perfect for me pool and hot tub. If you have questions I can help with just ask one of the folks I’ve mentioned in this review to connect us.
Great Communication, Start to Finish
UPDATE 2025: As we stated in our initial review, Communication was key when we decided to enter into our pool build contract with Heritage. Over the past few weeks (a year after installation) we have had a series of mechanical/electrical issues (to no fault of Heritage) to which we would like to recognize Keith Smith, Jeremy Bregger, Bryan Demarest and Mackenzie Keohane for once again fulfilling the commitment to GREAT Communication. Thank you all for getting us through.
2024: Our relationship with Heritage Pools began during the Pandemic when we were seeking a Pool Builder to help us at our new construction future home. Our call to Heritage was answered by a "live" person. This was very surprising at the time and certainly played a big part in our decision. From there we were placed in the Design hands of David Friedland. As this was our third pool build we knew we needed a talented professional. David proved to be well-versed in all aspects. In addition to being patient and attentive. Once we took possession of our new home in 2024, we began our relationship with the next members of the build team, Mackenzie Keohane (administration)and Fred Goss (project manager). This is the point at which the heavy-equipment crews come in and dig the big, ugly hole in your nice new yard. Scarey and nerve-wracking. Our fears were handled timely and conscientiously by both, Mackenzie and Fred. All the way through the build process our calls and emails were handled timely. Never was there a time when we could not reach someone. Communication is so important when you make an investment like this. We are grateful they answered the call. Upon completion of our pool build we entered into a maintenance agreement in order to be certain we understood the undertakings of what was needed for this particular pool build. This is when we were introduced to Jamie Carr and our Tech, Tommy Greene. Tommy is thorough, dedicated and timely in his service. Overall, this is a Winning Team we would be happy to recommend.
On Time, On Budget, and Exceptional
The whole team at Heritage was amazing to work with! They communicated very clearly throughout the process. They were on time and on budget and providing exceptional service along the way. And the end result is beautiful!
Grateful for a Flawless Experiences
Heritage Pools did an exceptional job with the design and construction of my pool! I want to express my gratitude to Mackenzie K. for ensuring that the project was completed on time and ran smoothly throughout.