Harmonious integration of pool designs into garden design

A garden pool is an attractive addition to the outdoor area, as it provides a tranquil oasis where we can relax and unwind.

The beauty of the summer light, which slowly lingers into the evening, encourages us to enjoy our outdoor spaces more intensely. This allows us to create wonderful oases where we can refresh ourselves and spend time surrounded by nature. It would be even better if the outdoor area included an integrated pool.

Pool design is one of the most sought-after ways to enhance the attractiveness, value, and usability of outdoor and garden areas, both in private homes and hotels. It's one of the solutions that helps transform nature into a place of well-being during the summer.

When designing a garden with a pool, however, a number of considerations must be taken into account. These include the layout, the selection of suitable garden and pool furniture, appropriate lighting, and sun protection. A successful overall design that maximizes the use of the outdoor space is influenced by all these variables. You will likely either commission a garden designer or landscape architect, or, if you have a smaller budget, do some preliminary planning yourself and then seek advice from the pool supplier. Both approaches will lead to the desired result.

In this article, we discuss the basics of garden pools, design ideas, and offer advice on plant selection and maintenance . The pool experts at Traumpool.eu assisted us with this.

Basic considerations regarding garden pools

When planning your garden pool, a few basic considerations should be taken into account. First comes the placement . The pool's position can greatly influence the overall atmosphere and functionality. When choosing a location, factors such as sunlight, accessibility, and privacy should be considered.

Would you like to set up the pool in the shade of a large tree during the hot summer months? Swimming will be more pleasant and will protect you from the sun's harmful UV rays. Those who enjoy sunbathing should choose a location with sun exposure throughout the day.

Another important point is accessibility . The pool should be easily accessible from your house and other outdoor areas. You and your guests should be able to take a refreshing dip without having to cross the entire garden. Also, consider the tranquility of the area around your pool. You might want to place it in a secluded area of ​​your garden. Ideally, this should be in a screened-off area with trees, hedges, or fences to create a peaceful and private atmosphere.

Another important point is choosing the right size and depth for your garden pool. The size depends on the available space and the intended use of the pool. A smaller pool might suffice if you mainly plan to use it for sunbathing and relaxation. A larger pool with a deeper end is more suitable if you have ample space and want to include swimming or other water sports.

If you have children or inexperienced swimmers, a shallow end is important. They can feel comfortable there.

It's advisable to explore the different material options for your garden pool. Materials like concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl are popular choices. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of durability, appearance, and maintenance. Concrete pools, for example, are known for their longevity and durability. However, they may require more maintenance and be more expensive to install than other pool types on the market. Concrete pools may offer more customization options than fiberglass pools, although fiberglass pools (also known as GRP pools) require less maintenance and have a smooth surface.

Another option to consider, especially if you're on a budget, is vinyl pools. They're usually the most affordable option and can be custom-made to your specific dimensions and shape. However, they might not last as long as concrete or fiberglass pools, and the liner will need replacing more frequently.

Ultimately, your individual requirements and preferences will determine the choice of materials. It's crucial to do your research and select the right material for your budget, desired aesthetic, and long-term maintenance needs. Consulting a pool specialist can be helpful in making this decision.

Harmonious integration of the garden pool design into outdoor areas

Get creative and personalize your garden pool design by actively participating in the planning from the start. Natural elements can enhance the pool's appearance and integrate it harmoniously into your outdoor landscape. For a natural look, add natural stone, wooden panels, pebbles, or a waterfall to your pool.

Imagine stepping into your garden retreat, surrounded by lush flora and bubbling water. A sense of calm washes over you as you dip your toes into the crystal-clear pool. With carefully selected natural stones and rocks that blend seamlessly with the landscape, your pool becomes a true work of art.

Water features have been proven to enhance the pool ambiance. The sound of cascading water can be soothing. Choose from simple fountains, sophisticated water walls, or a combination of different features. Imagine a gentle cascade tumbling over textured rocks, creating a captivating sound and sight. As the centerpiece of your garden pool, it will enthrall your eyes and ears.

Don't forget the lighting . A clever arrangement of lights creates a stunning nighttime atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy your garden pool even after sunset. Underwater lights gently illuminate the pool, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. Strategically placed LED lamps highlight the natural elements while you relax by the pool, creating a captivating interplay of light and shadow.

The harmonious design of your outdoor pool is about creating an experience, not just a swimming area. Every element, from the choice of materials to the placement of water features and lighting, influences the overall mood and style. By incorporating natural elements, your pool becomes a tranquil oasis that reflects the beauty of its surroundings and blends seamlessly into your outdoor landscape.

Concept ideas for the pool area

In this section, we would like to present you with tried and tested ideas and concepts from pool construction practice that can be valuable to you when designing your own pool area. These include smart ways to provide shade and privacy, the most attractive and durable materials for pool walls, as well as aesthetic landscaping and an optimal pool location.

01 Create a pool area that harmoniously complements the garden landscape

A garden pool area should be designed to blend seamlessly with the architecture of your house and the surrounding landscape. Consider the curves, lines, and shapes of the surrounding garden. The swimming pool should complement this overall design.

For example, if the garden has many organic lines, a rectangular pool will look out of place.”,

Landscape architect Marcus Barnett clarifies.

A pool area concept should be reviewed within the context of larger landscaping projects.

We generally choose materials that suit the location, and in particular the ideas for the outdoor terrace must blend seamlessly into the surroundings, otherwise they will seem out of place.”

Garden designer Libby Russell of Mazzullo & Russell adds that the stone color should match the location as well as the pool construction or structure around the pool.

02 Position the pool area in a protected area

Libby Russell recommends placing the pool in a discreet or hidden location that isn't immediately visible from the house. Pools aren't very appealing in winter if all you can see is a cover.

It's best to enjoy the afternoon sun in the main seating area, but ensure the spot is sheltered from view and wind, and consider the view from the pool. The ground should be level, but you can use the natural topography of a sloping garden to conceal the pool.

A garden pool is a hub of activity in the summer, but is best kept well hidden in the winter.

03 Don't neglect safety aspects

Regardless of the material you use for the patio around your pool, you must ensure that any surface made of stone slabs, wooden planks, tiles, or paving stones is slip-resistant. Walking around with wet feet and splashing in the pool pose a potential hazard.

Smooth, non-slip flooring, such as sawn natural stone, is preferable to split stone flooring, which has stump-like ridges.

Stick to medium colors. Dark asphalt can get quite hot underfoot, while white or almost white asphalt reflects sunlight

says John Wyer , CEO of Bowles & Wyer .

Marcus Barnett suggests using the same paving stones as elsewhere on the property, but with a different finish, such as bush-hammered or flamed, to create a non-slip surface texture. It's best to opt for sawn surfaces and avoid smoothly polished paving stones.

04 Planting – The right plant selection and arrangement

Your garden pool can be transformed into a beautiful retreat with plants. In natural pools, plants improve water quality and the environmental balance while also adding visual appeal. When selecting plants, consider their tolerance to standing water and sunlight.

Carefully arrange the plants, considering their height, spread, and root development. Strategic placement can frame your pool, provide privacy, and create a focal point in the garden. Papyrus plants or cannas can be planted behind the pool to create a natural backdrop and privacy from neighboring properties. Placing medium-sized plants like irises or cattails around the pool's edge will create a softer transition between water and land. To create a cohesive poolside landscape, use low-growing plants like creeping jenny or sweet flag as ground cover.

Choose plants with seasonal interest. Selecting different plants that bloom at different times will help your pool garden look good all year round. Choose summer-flowering water hibiscus or water lilies and winter-flowering water iris or winterberry holly to add color and interest.

By carefully selecting and placing plants around your garden pool, you can create a harmonious and captivating atmosphere that enhances its beauty and supports the ecosystem. Explore the many plant options available and let your imagination run wild as you create your own personal retreat in the garden.

Planting decisions are also influenced by how exposed the location is. Ornamental grasses thrive in sunny but windy spots – their feathery plumes look beautiful all year round, especially in late summer when the pool is likely to be used frequently, and they produce very little foliage.

Taller, multi-stemmed shrubs pair well with ground cover. Lavender, nepeta, and other fragrant plants can create an attractive setting for cemented pool areas.

Think about the atmosphere and the view around the pool and while swimming. "We try to create a character around a pool that matches the atmosphere of the garden."

Libby Russell adds.

05 Combine different materials in the pool area

Zoning the garden by mixing hardscaping materials can help create a pool area with a lot of visual appeal for the viewer.

Christopher Grubb , the founder of Beverly Hills-based Arch-Interiors Design Group , combined decking boards, concrete, tiles and grass to create a design that touches the eye.

Consider following his example and using different levels to define separate zones.

A combination of wooden decking and stone paving can help to soften and break up the overwhelming feeling of a vast expanse of hard landscaping. Wood has different colors when wet and dry and will certainly age to a silvery patina, which can look stunning under certain circumstances

06 Harmonious overall look through matching accessories

For example, think about the placement of the loungers to ensure there is enough space and that they are properly aligned. Keep it simple and don't try to complicate or embellish the area around the pool

Marcus Barnett recommends.

Pots around the pool are vital – I use oranges for aroma and a semi-formal shape and rhythm of pots with mid- to late-summer flowers and fascinating plants, from Agapanthus to Iochroma,”

Libby Russell adds.

Large planters can also serve as a structural element if you have smooth natural stone around the pool, as well as adding a splash of color with a plant that has not previously been in the pool area.

06 Atmospheric lighting

If you're wondering how to create an impressive and safe pool area after dark, creative pool lighting solutions are just the thing. The patio needs sufficient lighting so that family and guests can walk around at night, while ensuring the pool edge and water are clearly visible.

Follow the example of Janine Pattison , a garden and landscape architect who uses color-changing LEDs in and around pools to quickly create different moods.

Libby Russell, on the other hand, believes that less is more when it comes to pool lighting. The British landscape architect points out that ambient lighting around the pool house, along with soft lighting of the landscaping, is usually sufficient to create the right atmosphere.

Dark water reflects the surrounding elements of the pool better, and the pool lighting does not cause any reflection

Marcus Barnett adds:

Ideally, you need a range of lighting levels that can be dimmed or brightened to ensure that the swimming pool can be used in all situations.”

07. Enhance the pool area with outdoor sculptures

Unique sculptures allow you to personalize your outdoor environment even further.

Choose sculptures that reflect your individual preferences and help you feel comfortable. Consider the positioning of the artworks and existing plants to maximize their impact.

The material used is also crucial; weatherproof materials like stone or cement are suitable for outdoor applications. Consider how close the sculptures should be to the pool to avoid chlorine damage. Create unique water features and integrate artistic elements like sculptural boxwood hedges or fountains into your landscape.

Regarding pool material: Why are GRP pools from Poland so popular?

A growing number of people prefer fiberglass pools because they appreciate the combination of top-notch quality and an affordable price.

The advantages of GRP pools

A garden pool should bring enjoyment for years to come. A good swimming pool should blend seamlessly into the garden, be easy to maintain, and last for many years. Polish fiberglass pools combine these qualities.

Easy maintenance, long service life

Fiberglass pools are durable and easy to maintain. The material is highly resistant to weathering, UV radiation, and temperature fluctuations. Unlike liner or concrete pools, there are no seams where dirt or algae can accumulate. This means less cleaning, fewer chemicals, and more time to enjoy your backyard pool.

Quick assembly

Unlike traditional swimming pools, which can take weeks or months to assemble, fiberglass garden pools are delivered fully finished. Installation usually only takes a few days, so you can soon jump into the refreshing water.

Why choose GRP garden pools from Poland?

Polish manufacturers have established themselves as market leaders in certain market and price segments, impressing customers with high quality, competitive prices, and customized solutions

They offer garden pools that meet European quality standards thanks to modern manufacturing processes and decades of experience, and usually at lower costs than in this country.

Sustainability and environmental friendliness

Many Polish industries use environmentally friendly materials and energy-efficient production methods. A fiberglass pool is not only durable but also highly resistant to external influences. This not only extends the lifespan of the pool but also offers a more sustainable alternative for your landscape.

Individual design options

Whether LED lighting, heat pump or stylish roofing – thanks to the many different design options, you can design the pool exactly according to your wishes.

Your personal swimming pool should not only be functional but also a visual highlight in your landscape. If you value quality, aesthetics, and a reasonable price-performance ratio, a fiberglass pool from Poland a fantastic choice, especially the high-quality models from TraumPool .

TraumPool has over 20 years of experience in the manufacture and installation of fiberglass garden pools and offers a wide selection of styles that integrate seamlessly into a variety of garden designs. Thanks to reliable delivery and personalized advice, acquiring your own garden pool is particularly easy.