Design your Dream Pool into Reality

Easy does it! Before you dive into comparing the costs of pool contractors, there’s much thought to be had when designing the pool of your dreams. 

But, just as a pool will provide you with endless amounts of fun and enjoyment, so should design it. The internet is a choc-block of design ideas, so there’s no shortage of inspiration. 

We thought we’d get you started with the fundamentals of designing a pool: what’s essential, what’s not, what’s nice to have, and what to avoid. With so many choices out there, it can be daunting to start but follow the right principles, and you’ll be well on your way.

What do you want from your pool?

That’s the first and most important question to ask. Is it for family fun? Is it to whip yourself into shape? Will it be a personal sanctuary? Are you planning to entertain friends and family? How much shade and sun do you want? What you want to use your pool for, will determine much of its design.

Indoors or outdoors?

Most pools in South Africa take advantage of our fabulous weather, so you’ll find the vast majority of them in the garden. And for good reason. Splashing around in cool water under a clear blue sky and a bright yellow sun is our idea of heaven. And a relaxing swim under the stars is magical. Pools outside are also great for entertaining, braais, parties, and any manner of fun. 

On the other hand, a pool indoors has its own benefits. Year-round use, whatever the weather, a perfect exercise spot, and a touch of glamour are just some of the attractions to be had. However, the increase in costs may put you off, and there’s no denying that inside pools can be heavy on the wallet.

What do you want your pool to look like?

Yes, we know. A lot of these questions seem obvious but putting in thought before you embark on building it will ensure no buyer’s remorse! So, do you want the pool’s shape to be rectangular, square, circular, or freeform? Take into account what the pool’s going to look like from both inside and outside your house. It should be a natural extension of your home. 

Size is also a factor in designing a pool. This will depend on how you wish to use it. Do you want a lap pool for Olympic training? Do you want a pool that’s large enough for a school of children? Do you want an infinity pool that’s seductive on the eye? 

You should consider depth too. Do you want a shallow end that’s knee-high to a grasshopper, and a deep end in which to hide a giraffe? Do you want a gentle gradient or a steep incline? Again, consider what you want to use the pool for, and the answers should flow easily.

Remember though, the most important in planning the look of your pool is to ensure it is cohesive to its surrounding space, your garden, as well as your home. Completely different styles will jar, and you don’t want that. 

Consider the practicalities.

So it looks amazing and is perfectly suited for its task. But how practical is it? How easy is it to move between your house and the pool? Where will people change? Is there a convenient area for serving refreshments? Where will the pool equipment, chemicals, pool toys, and other accessories go? Consider practical issues early, so you can be sure they are addressed in your pool’s design.

Set a budget.

Choose how much you want to spend on building your pool and stick to it. Yes, those optional extras may sound amazing, and they probably are, but are they affordable? You want to be enjoying your pool in your old age, not still paying for it.

Think safety.

Make your pool safe from the get-go. It will have an impact on the design and the usage of space. While swimming pools are fun and enjoyable, they can also pose a risk if precautions aren’t built in, especially for kids, dogs and the elderly or infirm. So, at the design stage, you should settle on safety measures, such as a pool cover, enclosure, or fencing.

Get a Quote from the Pool Xpert.

You want the right team for the job, Pool Xpert are your network of trusted pool professionals with years of experience and knowledge in the pool industry. Make sure to meet your chosen Pool Xpert in person, and insist on detailed quotes. Ask to see previous examples of our amazing work.

Make sure your chosen Pool Xpert is aligned with your dream

Insist on detailed drawings upfront. It’s a lot easier to erase a line and redraw it on paper than it is to change work mid-project. Ensure everything that you want from your pool is included from the start. It’s your pool. You’re the customer.

When is the best time to build a pool?

This one’s easy. You want to be swimming in the summer, not building, so aim for winter construction. It’s a busy period for pool contractors though, so book your chosen one well in advance.

And that’s it. Well, not really. It’s just the start of it. There’s so many other things to consider when designing your pool. Just be sure to tick them off, one by one. Embark on the task fully prepared and with your eyes wide open.

It’ll make jumping into your dream pool for the very first time all that more rewarding!