Small Business Spotlight – Soake Pools®

Soake Pools®: From Backyard Inspiration to National Growth

Founded in 2014 by Brian and Karen Larson, Soake Pools stands as a testament to innovation and resilience in the plunge pool industry. What began as a simple desire to recreate an idyllic Vermont resort experience in their backyard has flourished into a thriving business with sales across the US.

An Idea for a Prototype

The inception of Soake Pools began after Brian and Karen visited a resort in Stowe, VT that had recently updated its outdoor patio space with a beautiful small pool. Inspired by its sleek design and optimal comfort, Brian returned home with the goal of creating a similar haven in his own backyard. However, the market lacked such options at the time. This led Brian down a path of research and exploration into precast concrete solutions, ultimately resulting in the creation of a prototype pool−one that still graces the Larsons’ backyard today.

Building their Dream

Brian and Karen’s journey to establish Soake Pools was paved by tenacity and grassroots marketing. “We had no customer portfolio and a limited understanding of the pool industry,” commented Brian. “So we set out to forge connections with landscapers and landscape architects who were in the industry to gauge their interest.”

Their approach was simple, yet effective: focus on one client at a time and learn with each project. Through perseverance and dedication, they overcame initial skepticism, proving that fresh perspectives can reinvigorate even well-established industries.

A Unique Edge

Soake Pools prides itself on a dual focus: a superior product and an exceptional team. By offering elegantly designed, year-round pools accessible to diverse income levels, the company holds a unique advantage. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in the deep, ongoing relationships they’ve cultivated−often receiving photos and feedback from customers years after installation. With a mission-driven approach, Soake Pool’s goal is to bring a serene water space to every backyard in the US.

Building a Partnership with Bank of New Hampshire

Brian and Karen were introduced to Bank of New Hampshire through business contacts at the Small Business Development Center. An initial meeting with , Kelli Olsen VP – Business Development Officer and Patricia Kingwill, VP Office Manager, led to the opening of a business checking account. “We were actually looking for a place to move our bank account to and found a few similarities with Bank of New Hampshire, primarily their dedication to providing exceptional customer experiences,” Brian said. “We really enjoyed our relationship with Kelli early on, so we contacted her when we were looking for guidance on obtaining financing for the construction of our new headquarters in Pembroke.”

The Larson’s were later introduced to Joanne Gagnon, VP – Commercial Banker, who assisted them with their financing.  Brian and Karen initially discussed a hope for one institution for all their banking needs. At this point they had already established a deposit relationship. They were a growing family owned business that was leasing office space in downtown Concord, NH that they had outgrown.  There operations, storage and manufacturing was being done in Pembroke, NH.  Across from the operations plant the Larson’s were leasing 2 parcels of  land the storing of materials.   In the winter of 2023, the Larson’s requested BNH finance the purchase of those parcels to construct a 2-Story Office building.  This new location would be the future Soake Pools campus bringing office staff and manufacturing team into one location.     In March 2024, BNH provided the construction financing and the Larson’s broke ground.

Larson Design dba Soake Pools moved the office staff to the new location in December ’24. The building features offices, gathering spaces, a spa / bathing room and a beautiful outdoor showroom that allows buyers the opportunity to experience a custom  pool, a hot tub or a cold water plunge pool surrounded but a lovely garden.

Steady Growth for the Future

With roots firmly planted in New Hampshire, Soake Pools is focused on continuing to expand its reach nationwide, all while staying true to its core values. “Our biggest growth now is outside New England,” Brian said. “We have the whole country as our market.” As the business continues to grow, increased sales and team expansion will support its strategic foresight.

Access to Clean Water: A Global Initiative

Beyond business growth, Soake Pools maintains a strong commitment to community involvement. A portion of the proceeds from each plunge pool sold is donated to water.org−a global nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing water and sanitation around the world. Additionally, the company closes its office each year for a day so the team can volunteer at the New Hampshire Food Bank in Manchester, NH, to assemble meals for the local community. “We’ve helped put together a thousand meals through the program,” added Brian. “It’s an amazing experience−a real win-win for everyone.”

Bringing a Concept to Life with Perseverance

Brian and Karen’s journey with Soake Pools is marked by a steadfast belief in their vision. They overcame numerous ‘no’s from industry insiders through perseverance and innovation. “While we were not from the pool industry, we thought that could be an advantage because we could identify improvements based on what others were doing,” Brian said. “We had to keep persevering to find people who would work with us and who help us launch Soake Pools. So, perseverance prevailed in our case.”

Through its partnership with Bank of New Hampshire, Soake Pools received the financial guidance needed to maximize their cash flow and secure funding for a new modern facility−featuring multiple outdoor plunge pools for customers to relax in. Built in 2024 and conveniently located next door to its tiling facility and warehouse, the new headquarters brings all team members together under one operational hub.

At Bank of New Hampshire (BNH), we take pride in supporting local businesses like Soake Pools—helping them grow, innovate and continue serving our communities. To learn more about how we can support your business, visit BNH.bank.

To learn more about Soake Pools, visit them online at soakepools.com.

Ready to start or expand your business? Contact one of BNH’s Commercial Banking Team members to find out how a partnership with us can set you up for success.

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