The swimming pool is hands down the most popular addition to any backyard. I’ve even seen architects bring the pool indoors so you can enjoy it all year. But for me, nothing quite matches that timeless charm and amazing serenity of a natural swimming pool, one that’s just surrounded by the goodness of nature.
Some of us are lucky and have a spacious backyard for a truly extensive and enchanting landscape. But others with smaller contemporary homes can go for more compact and improvised versions of this mesmerizing addition. Here are some breathtaking inspirations that show off the very best from the world of natural pools.
Waterfalls and Landscape
The allure of a natural pool isn’t just about the benefits it offers. Honestly, most homeowners I know invest in this eye-catching addition for the aesthetics and that feeling of being close to nature.
Waterfalls are quickly becoming one of the hottest trends out there, and there is no reason you can’t add one to your natural pool, too. Plus, it helps keep the water fresh. Visually, it just creates the aura of an exotic, tropical destination.
And size is not a constraint here. As some of the inspirations below show, even the smallest natural pools can feature an impressive and captivating waterfall.
by The Landmark Group
Natural rocks are another important part of shaping the landscape. I think huge basalt rocks are an amazing choice, but they can be expensive. Still, they add such a touch of authenticity.
The shape of the pool is also a huge factor in its overall appeal. Dropping the simple straight lines for irregular curves and patterns is such a good idea. Top it all off with the right LED lighting, and your natural pool will look even more enthralling after sunset.
by Alderwood Landscaping
by Placid Pools
by Kane Brothers Water Features
by Poole’s Stone and Garden
Drawing Inspiration from Nature
Okay, one of the obvious setbacks of natural pools is the maintenance. People often think they are far more demanding in terms of care than most chlorinated pools.
A good compromise is to combine your backyard pool with the inimitable *look* of a natural pool by taking some inspiration from nature. Imitation is indeed the sincerest form of flattery, and there is no shame in borrowing from nature!
A few natural rocks around the edge, some greenery, and a landscape that is nature-centric are a perfect way to give your existing pool a “greener tinge”.
by Pool Environments
by One Specialty Landscape Design, Pools & Hardscape
The maintenance costs of a natural pool are almost the same as a chlorinated pool, but the care they need is completely different. It involves maintaining a delicate balance between the pool and the surrounding landscape.
Yet with eco-consciousness becoming such a major factor in defining our homes, the popularity of natural swimming pools is definitely on the up. Some of these can also be easily transformed into gorgeous ponds over time.
Going Completely Natural
A truly natural swimming pool is so much more than just the aesthetics it exudes. It’s surrounded by several layers of plants and relies on greenery to cleanse the water on a regular basis. This means they are completely chemical-free. How amazing is that?
No negative effect on your skin, and it can actually aid in improving your health over time. To create a beautiful and functioning natural pool, a larger landscape needs to be created. This is to facilitate water circulation and purification using a regeneration zone.
by R. P. Marzilli & Company Landscape Contractor
by Bradanini & Associates
The regeneration zone’s size is relative to the size of the pool itself and how much water it needs to filter daily. But don’t worry, even small backyards can host natural pools that are smaller in size just by adding a regeneration area that is proportional.
Floating plants and submerged, rooted plants right in the pool help improve the water quality and maintain the right oxygen content. Other plants on the periphery add to the appeal and help sustain the complex ecosystem.
by Genus Loci Ecological Landscapes
by Legacy Landscapes
by Robins Nest Aquatics
