CSPAS is an award-winning team of swimming pool and wellbeing specialists. We custom-design swimming pools that meet each client's functional and aesthetic needs.

Here, we provide practical guidance for architects, landscape designers and contractors on how to approach swimming pool planning, design and engineering so that each pool becomes the stunning centrepiece of its surrounding landscape, rather than an incidental byproduct.

Design concept and planning

A swimming pool should be central to the architectural design concept of the entire outdoor space, rather than an add-on. If prioritised in the earliest overall landscaping plans, a swimming pool can become a focal point, offering comfort, calm and wellbeing while delivering practical functionality. Measures must also be put in place to ensure the pool is easy for the client to manage.

To achieve this, pool specialists should be involved in the project at a very early stage to collaborate with landscape design teams on the alignment of deck and water levels, views of and from the pool, access to the pool and the integration of services such as electricity and water supply.A critical element of swimming pool design and planning, which is often overlooked, is the pool plant room. Meticulous planning of the location, space, access and layout of the pool plant room is essential to avoid impacting its functionality or making it cramped or inaccessible. Structural design aspects that should be considered include building regulations, fire regulations, and sound and vibration insulation.

Because the plant room is located at a distance from the pool, this must be incorporated into the overall landscape design from the start. Redesigns at a later date will be costly

Pool positioning

The pool should be positioned within key sightlines from the house and terraces while accommodating sunlight, shade and wind. Views from the pool of the surrounding outdoor space should also be considered.

If the pool is sheltered from the wind with maximum exposure to sunlight, the water can be naturally warmed more quickly for an enhanced, comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Privacy and safety are also significant factors in the positioning of a pool. Achieving a balance of privacy from neighbours with the safety of a clear view of the pool from the house is a key aspect of swimming pool positioning.

Integration with the immediate landscape

Swimming pool design should allow for a smooth integration of the pool with surrounding terraces, planting and boundaries, presenting a singular composition with coherent lines and geometry.

Geometry plays an important role in pool aesthetics and functionality. It is used to determine the best shape for the pool and calculate its dimensions, including depth. Geometry is also used as a design technique to emulate the lines and shapes of the surrounding landscape so that the pool fits seamlessly into the available space.

At CSPAS we are keen to collaborate with appointed landscape designers to ensure a seamless integration of each pool with its immediate environment. Likewise, we can recommend trusted partners, such as Wright Landscapes, to combine our expertise and produce swimming pools as landscape centrepieces. We are proud to have worked in partnership with Wright Landscapes for some time on a wide range of projects.

Creating a calm retreat through aesthetics

A swimming pool provides a sanctuary away from the noise of daily life. There are ways in which the basic aesthetics of a pool can be designed to create a centrepiece with a calming ambiance:

• Use a subtle material and colour palette to allow the water surface to be the main visual focus of the landscape

• Underwater and external lighting can be combined to make the pool an aesthetic feature after dark

• The servicing of plant, covers and access routes should be made easy, but designed to be visually discreet so engineering does not dominate the view. Any maintenance work should create as little disruption as possible so this needs to be carefully balanced for the user

• The pool and surrounding space should be designed to look impressive all year round with structure and planting that continues to create a strong aesthetic, even when the pool is not in use.

Safety and comfort

Safety and comfort are critical aspects of swimming pool design. Elements to consider within the pool itself include carefully designed steps, benches, shallow areas and edge details.

Around the pool area, safety measures such as pathway lights, textured surfaces to minimise slipping, and fencing, with safety covers alongside, for keeping children away from the pool when not in use could be considered. When planned early, safety covers can be concealed within the pool structure or surrounding landscape, remaining completely hidden when not in use.

Draw on lessons learned

With each swimming pool project there are lessons learned, and it is essential that these are incorporated into new projects.

Key points to remember are:

• Involve specialists early

• Respect levels and geometry

• Keep details simple

• Let the water be the hero!

Speak to CSPAS about your upcoming swimming pool project

At the earliest planning stages, get in touch with CSPAS to discuss your project. Our team of swimming pool design specialists will work with you to ensure you deliver the most effective, functional and stunning swimming pool for your client.

Pools as Landscape Centrepieces. Tips for the Pros