A Natural Swimming Pool

Summary record

A natural swimming pool

Operation of a natural swimming pool

The style of a natural pool

Practical information

Environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional pools, natural pools sketch spaces decorated with plants, in harmony with the landscape and totally friendly flora. Can your respect towards the environment be estimated according to your choice in terms of pools?

What is an L-shaped swimming pool? Aware of the problems posed by the excessive use of chemicals, some have chosen to apply their ecological beliefs to their swimming area. The result is the traditional "blue square" or "L shaped" losing ground and disappearing in favor of a new kind of achievement.

Probably still not common enough in the United States, but with real ecological talent, natural pools are dedicated to a beautiful future. Why? They banish the use of chlorine, algaecides and other salts and seamlessly integrate into the landscape without causing damage.

Operation of a natural swimming pool

Also called swimming ponds, natural pools are characterized by an ecological treatment of the water through a biological filter, which replaces the traditional swimming pool technology-based chemicals.

The style of a natural pool

They adopt a minimalist style or look in which, they are placed in a modest sized urban garden (a minimum of 100 square meters) or at the countryside.

Practical information

How to maintain the water temperature? How much does a natural pool cost? Is maintenance requested? Do I need to visit a plumbing supply store before starting to work?

Also called swimming ponds, natural pools are characterized by an ecological treatment of the water through a biological filter, which replaces the traditional swimming pool technology-based chemicals.

The operating principle is simple. It uses a selection of aquatic plants with high filtering capacity plants, which keep the water free of nitrates and pathogens and very clean.

The phenomenon of purification is more effective. It is therefore recommended to establish a fountain, waterfall or various movements that will help oxygenate the water as soon as possible.

Some pools usually consist of two basins, which form a whole landscape.

The first area may be dedicated to swimming and bordered by a shallow space for regeneration, covered with pebbles or lava stone and with purifying plants. A second area, called a lagoon, is devoted entirely to filtration. It is composed of plants with strong roots such as reeds, irises or yellow water lilies. Placed in baskets, they are removable for easy maintenance and they will naturally purify the water by absorbing nitrates and phosphates. This totally organic filter allows you to get bathing water with the same quality as your drinking water.

The average area of the swimming area is around 30 to 40 square meters, with a lagoon of approximately 10 square meters lagoon. Since, several walls separate the two basins in the lagoon, the water is able to circulate through a closed circuit. However, the swimming and filter area communicate in case of smaller outputs (below 60 or 70 square meters).

Because they adopt a minimalist style or look, some manufacturers draw their inspiration from nature thereby using every plant, bush or riprap stone found on site.

The aim is to give the illusion of a tamed wild landscape. To complete the atmosphere, creatures such as frogs are introduced in order to participate in this aquatic ecosystem. Also, there can be spotlights to create a play of shadows and lights at night.

As for traditional pools, you can choose between many options: swimming against the current, lighting, whirlpool effect - a good compromise for those who wish to keep the look of their existing pool.

The interior is not left out: dry stone, wall or granite... The choice is vast. Also consider how you want to enter the water. It will determine the appearance of the banks: gently sloping staircase access, dock or beach. Avoid too many geometric shapes for more natural contours of the pool.

Remember that it is perfectly possible to turn your conventional chlorinated pool into a natural swimming pool. Once the tightness of your old pool is refurbished and tested, a certified professional (a pool or landscaping expert with specific training) is responsible for integrating a regeneration zone contiguous to the pool or not, depending on the configuration of your land.