Make Your Pool Plan
Before you start looking at swimming pool designs, it is important to think carefully about your goals for your overall outdoor area before you begin. What type of look do you want to achieve? There are many possibilities, including contemporary, classic, tropical, Balinese and any number other styles. It is important to consider how the theme you choose will fit with other existing features, such as the style of your home. The following checklist will help you get started:
How will I use the pool?
Exercise
- Swimming laps – you’ll need around 1.2m under you to do turns
- Low-impact exercise
Therapy
- Easy entry
- Steps
- Shallow entry
- Spa – spa jets
General Play & Recreation
- Water sports/games
- Seating areas
- Centrepiece for outdoor entertaining
What visual impression do I want from the pool?
Central Feature
- Major element in design
- Pool integrated with garden and house
- Enhance view from the house and garden
Secondary Element
- Isolated from garden immediately around house
- In its own area
Seasonal Considerations
- Summer sun
- Autumn leaves
- Winter view
Night-time Considerations
- Pool lighting
- Deck and garden lighting
- Night-time view from the house
Style Options
- Naturalistic – pond, tropical lagoon
- Classic – geometrical, symmetrical
- Contemporary
- Pool colour
How much paving do I want around the pool?
Paving/Decking
- Partial garden or lawn area
- Only at the entry point
- Extensive
Materials
- Consistent with architecture
- Comfortable for bare feet
- Not too slippery when wet
Other Considerations
- Seating space
- Dining – table and barbeque area
- Entertaining
How do I want the pool enclosed?
- Standard fencing
- Glass fencing
- Wall
- Combination
What other features would I like?
- Water feature
- Fountain
- Speakers in the garden
- Pergola/gazebo
- Spa
How much storage do I need?
- Pool games and toys
- Pool equipment
- Pool chemical and maintenance supplies
- Cushions for furniture
What design and construction issues do I face?
Pump/Heater Location
- Visual issue
- Practical limitations
- Noise
Utilities
- Underground
- Electric
- Gas
- Water
- Sewer/septic
- Cable
- Overhead electrical wires
Legal Regulations
- Fencing requirements
- Shire permits
- Water Corporation permits
Soil and Site Considerations
- Small space
- Steep slope
- Waterlogged soil
- Bedrock/rocky soil
- Access to site for large equipment
- Soil compaction
- Tree roots/trees to be protected during installation
- Windy location
- Shady spots
- Vegetation – overhanging trees will drop leaves into the pool
- Supervision – can the pool be easily seen and supervised
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