If you search for gorgeous swimming pools on the Internet, chances are you'll come across several infinity edge pools. These pools are constructed so one of the perimeters is invisible. That means the water seems to blend into the landscape beyond. It's a stunning construction — in the right circumstances.
If you're dreaming about an infinity edge pool for your yard, read on to discover how well it will work for your circumstances.
In most ways, an infinity-edge pool has the same components as any other swimming pool. The main difference is the vanishing edge portion. This is constructed with a weir wall — a pool wall that's slightly shorter than the others — and a catch pool.
The shortness of the weir wall, along with a down-slope in its construction, allows the water to flow over it. The catch pool collects the water. An integrated pump sends the water back into the main pool.
The main disadvantage of an infinity edge pool is cost. The special construction does up the price. In that vein, you also need enough space for the main pool and the catch pool. The weir wall and catch basin can also present hazards for small children.
That said, the biggest advantage of an infinity edge pools is its beauty. These pools are considered the height of luxury because of their beauty, so they also add value to your home. What's more, a well-designed infinity edge pool can make it seem like your property and the surrounding area have blended together.
As
Luxury Pools points out, the goal of an infinity edge pool is to blend two scenes into one. This is a complex project that involves using a slope to create that feeling of infinity. It's an effect you want not just while you're in the pool. The sightline from different parts of the house has to maintain that infinite illusion.
Besides the mechanics of the pool, the swimming pool designers also have to take care in the aesthetics of the pool. Part of the illusion comes from the water's reflection of the surrounding landscape. Designers have to plan the pool so it best reflects the landscape. This involves the materials and colors used in the pool liner.
In that vein, there are two property requirements that best facilitate installing an infinity edge pool. One is a sloped yard — it's very difficult to get that infinite illusion without a slope. The second is a gorgeous view. This can be a natural panorama or a view you create with landscaping. Either way, there has to be something beautiful enough to be worth reflecting in the pool.
Many homeowners allow their infinity edge pool to stand alone on its own beauty. They design the pool with materials and amenities that complement their house and lifestyle. This is certainly one approach that creates a cohesive effect.
That said, the goal of an infinity edge pool is to reflect beauty. So, it certainly makes sense to add beautiful things, such as potted flowers or palm trees, around the pool. This can also help blur the lines between the pool surface and the landscaping.
Whether you decide to add a water features such as a fountain or waterfalls is a matter of personal taste. The water spilling into the pool causes a disruption of the surface. That means you might not get a perfect reflection of the vista. However, this can still be a beautiful effect for a naturalistic pool.
Consider your yard and its environs to decide if it can accommodate an infinity edge pool. Once you're ready for a swimming pool of any style, consult the experts at
Sequoyah Pools for advice.