Michael Gesmond: The Visionary Behind Heritage Pools, LLC
Michael Gesmond’s journey from a young boy sitting on his father’s lap in an excavator to founding Heritage Pools, LLC is a testament to passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Since 2004, Heritage Pools, LLC has been a cornerstone of the Charleston SC, community, designing and building award-winning backyard retreats that reflect craftsmanship, integrity, and connection.
A Legacy Rooted in Craftsmanship
Michael’s early exposure to construction began at just eight years old, accompanying his father, a home builder, to work. From running for parts to aligning pipes, these formative years instilled in Michael a deep respect for quality and a meticulous work ethic. By high school, he was replacing pool liners, gaining firsthand knowledge of the industry’s demands and opportunities.
Taking a Leap of Faith
In 2004, Michael left family, friends, and financial security behind to move to Charleston SC, with a bold vision of building something extraordinary. With little money, he started Heritage Pools by replacing vinyl liners and performing service repairs out of his Honda Accord.
His first Yellow Pages ad—a significant investment at the time—took months to yield results but marked the start of his entrepreneurial journey. Taking on an apartment and the risks of a new business, Michael’s persistence eventually paid off, leading to the construction of the company’s first in-ground pool just a year later.
Innovating and Expanding
Michael’s vision evolved as Heritage Pools grew. He introduced the exclusive I-Beam pool alongside fiberglass and concrete options, ensuring clients had access to a wide range of solutions to meet their backyard goals. Recognizing the importance of longevity, he developed comprehensive service and maintenance plans to give clients peace of mind, knowing their pools would remain pristine for years.
In his relentless pursuit of excellence, Michael became South Carolina’s only Certified Master Pool Builder and Design Professional (MCPB), a distinction awarded to elite builders in the industry. His expertise in pool design, construction, and watershapes has positioned Heritage Pools as a leader in the field.
A Legacy of Excellence
Heritage Pools’ commitment to quality has earned the company over 50 industry awards, including:
- Annual recognition as a PSN Top 50 Builder Since 2021 and Top 50 Service Company Since 2020
- The Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics (2016, 2020).
- Awards of Excellence from leading manufacturers since onboarding, highlighting innovation and craftsmanship.
These accolades reflect Heritage Pools’ ability to consistently deliver elite outdoor spaces and uphold the highest standards of customer service.
Leadership and Team Achievements
Michael’s leadership has garnered personal recognition, including:
- APSP Young Professional of the Year (2017).
- Pool Pro Magazine’s Top 30 Under 40 (2021).
But Heritage Pools’ success is also driven by the strength of its team.
Key accolades include:
- Jessie Gesmond’s recognition as Pool Pro Magazine’s Top 30 Under 40 (2023).
- Team members like Chris Courchaine, Fred Goss and Keith Smith, earning national honors, further underscoring the depth of talent within the company.
Michael attributes these achievements to a culture of accountability, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence.
Family Values at the Core
In 2016, Jessie Gesmond joined Heritage Pools full-time as the Office Manager, leaving behind her career as a nurse practitioner to support the family business. Jessie quickly grew with the company as the Business and Finance Administrator.
Together, Michael and Jessie have built not only a successful business, but a legacy of integrity, trust, care, hunger, quality, and connection, and community involvement.
Their son Lincoln has even begun learning the ropes, often joining Michael on-site, just as Michael once did with his own father.
For Michael, the joy of creating elite backyard spaces is rivaled only by the time he spends with his wife and children, who remain his greatest source of motivation and pride.
Committed to Community
Heritage Pools’ dedication extends beyond its clients to the Charleston community. Through partnerships with organizations like Camp Happy Days, Dragon Boat Charleston, and Toys for Tots, the company actively gives back, supporting causes that uplift and inspire. Michael believes that the same values driving his business—integrity, care, and excellence—should also benefit the community he calls home.
Shaping the Future
Today, Heritage Pools sets the standard for elite pool construction in Charleston and beyond. With a talented team, a portfolio of award-winning projects, and countless satisfied clients, Michael’s vision remains steadfast: to create outdoor spaces that bring joy and serenity while fostering a culture of integrity and leadership.
The journey that began on an excavator has flourished into a legacy of excellence—one that reflects Michael’s passion for his craft, devotion to his family, and commitment to making a difference.
Michael’s Credentials & Achievements
- Certified Master Pool Builder and Design Professional (MCPB).
- APSP Young Professional of the Year (2017).
- Pool Pro Magazine Top 30 Under 40 (2021).
- Heritage Pools: 50+ industry awards for design and service excellence.
- BBB Torch Award for Ethics (2016, 2020).
Michael’s Certifications and Continued Education
- C201 GENESIS CONSTRUCTION SCHOOL: Concrete Pools
- GENESIS C414: Waterproofing & Finishes Panel Discussion
- GENESIS E211: Fluid Hydraulics for Pools & Spas
- Advanced Watershape Construction
- GENESIS D101: Introduction to Perspective Drawing
- GENESIS D211: Elements of Design
- GENESIS D231: Color Theory and Its Application
- GENESIS E245: Standards, Codes, and Ordinances; A Builder’s Guide to Proper Implementation
- GENESIS D265: Master Designer Methods Series: Kirk Bianchi, Crafting the Outdoor Space as a Living Art Form
- GENESIS D271: Architectural Styles
- GENESIS D180: Drawing for Professionals
- GENESIS D280: History of Pools and Water Features
- ACES Bonding and Grounding 6.0
- DESIGN 3422: Vanishing Edge Design & Details
- ENGINEERING 4311: Essential Advanced Fluid Engineering Workshop
- ENGINEERING 2311: Essential Fluid Engineering Workshop
- CONSTRUCTION 1956: Understanding Alkali Silica Reaction (ASR)
- CONSTRUCTION 3233: Hot Weather Concrete/Shotcrete Work
- DESIGN 2131: Essential SketchUp Modeling Workshop for Beginners
