Since pools are the centrepiece of backyards, it is crucial that the landscaping and design are both useful and aesthetically pleasing.
There are several factors to take into account throughout the pool landscaping design process, regardless of whether you need to upgrade an existing pool and landscaping or whether you wish to create a new pool.
Below are 10 common factors to take into account while planning your landscaping and pool:
- Your pool’s features
- Height and distance
- The pool’s dimensions and scope
- The tile along the pool’s edge’s colour and texture
- Interior pool finishes
- Control of the poolside areas
- Nearby locations and pool access
- Equipment and filtering zones
- Choosing the right plants for screening and privacy
- Integrated design
- Your pool’s features
Swimming pools should ideally be placed in an area with plenty of sunlight and no heavily overhanging trees. It ought to offer sufficient sunlight for a comfortable, inviting pool.
When deciding where to place the pool and trees, take into account how your house or surrounding landscape might cast shadows onto the pool. The pool should receive sunlight while being protected from the wind.
- Height and distance
Consider your use of the pool and the area around it. Pools should be simple to access and have play and entertainment areas for entertaining friends and family.
Take into account the pool’s elevation and location in relation to the home’s entertainment spaces and active play areas. If you have children, it is imperative that you can see the pool from your home.
- The pool’s dimensions and scope
A well-thought-out pool design makes the most of the available space while still leaving room for other activity areas. Families will need a place to play, unwind, or socialise during the colder months since the pool is only used occasionally.
Think about the pool’s size and scope in relation to the amount of yard space that is available for other activities. An effective landscape plan will significantly improve a small or oddly shaped yard.
- The tile along the pool’s edge’s colour and texture
Compared to very light-coloured tiles or pavers that reflect a lot of light, dark tiles or pavers hold onto heat. Both are compromises, so the decision will come down to preference.
Underfoot, tiles or pavers may feel hotter and some may reflect a lot of light.
Another crucial factor is the tile or paver’s texture.
Make sure the surface is not too coarse for bare feet, is suitable for wet areas, and is not slick. When leaving the pool, swimming costumes shouldn’t be pulled by the texture of the pool tiles.
- Interior pool finishes
Choose the pool’s interior finish to get the water colour and lining feel that you want. Some finishes are more cost-effective but require more maintenance. Plaster, aggregate, and tile are the most typical interior finishes for a concrete pool.
Each is available in a variety of colours that will affect how the pool looks and feels. Some finishes have a reflective quality and may give the appearance of a natural lake or pond.
Other finishes have a timeless elegance that works well with traditional pool designs, while a pebble surface may provide a tropical or lagoon-style atmosphere.
From Art-Deco to Mediterranean to Modern, there are various pool interior treatments to pick to suit your pool landscape.
- Control of the poolside areas
To ensure everyone can enjoy a safe time in the water, pool designs need to have safety in mind. Adult supervision within the pool enclosure will keep children safe. Ensure you can see every spot within the pool area by removing obstacles such as trees, pot plants, or objects that may block the view of the water.
A comfortable seating area around the pool, outside the splash zone will allow adults to actively supervise children while relaxing.
- Nearby locations and pool access
The landscape design should take into account the areas close to the pool. Zones should connect the pool to the rest of the backyard naturally and easily. Access to these areas should also be considered. Areas may include active play areas, entertaining areas, residence, maintenance and filtration areas.
- Equipment and filtering zones
Filtration and equipment areas need planning so they are functional for maintenance works and hidden from view. Pool equipment and filtration can be noisy, so consider positioning them away from entertaining areas and bedroom windows.
- Choosing the right plants for screening and privacy
The right plants around a pool can create a private oasis that provides screening and privacy. When selecting plants, consider plants that will suit the type of use you expect the pool to get. Think about the leaves, flowers and fruit it may drop as well as the invasive nature of the roots. You may need to consider the area between the pool and the fence to ensure that the plants here do not outgrow their space.
- Integrated design
Create a harmonious design by tastefully blending the pool, landscape, and home. This can be done by carefully planning the paths, lawns, plantings, cabanas, decks, shade structures, lighting, etc.
A well-designed pool and landscaping will create an aesthetically beautiful vision as well as a functional active area, with a seamless extension of the home from the inside living rooms to the outside living spaces.
The pool and landscape design process should be a joy and not a job. Although there are many variables to consider, a well-designed pool and landscaping is a value added addition to the property.
Brisk Landscaping has been creating swimming pools and landscapes for over 10 years and would be pleased to assist with any enquiry to help accomplish your pool landscaping projects.
