Designing a pool for an unusually shaped block
Understanding Infinity Pools
Chad Howell
An infinity pool is a swimming pool with a water level that is higher than the sidewalls of the pool to the point that it overflows. It has two levels: the actual pool and a lower level that collects the water that is overflowing. The collected water is then pumped back to the pool in a continuous cycle.
Infinity pools are mostly installed for their aesthetic value, meaning that you should get a reputable, competent and experienced designer and infinity pool installer. If you hire unqualified specialists, you might not be satisfied with the results because even though the infinity pool will have the overflowing water aspect, it may not blend in effectively with the aesthetics of your swimming pool area or environment.
Cost
Don't expect an infinity pool to be the same price as a standard swimming pool; an infinity pool is more expensive. You need to have a larger budget, but how much larger depends on the size of the infinity pool. Maintenance is also higher than a standard pool because of the overflowing mechanism that also needs to keep the water clean as it is being pumped back into the pool.
Who Should Install an Infinity Pool?
Infinity pools can be installed for both residential and commercial properties. However, for residential properties, ensure that you are in a financial position that enables you to install and maintain an infinity pool with no pressure. Depending on its size and design, the cost to install and maintain it can vary.
You might find that most infinity pools are installed on commercial properties because it is more economical for them. Their aesthetic value attracts clients who pay to use the infinity pool. This way, the commercial infinity pool makes money for its maintenance and leaves some profits for the owner.
Are Infinity Pools Safe?
Since some infinity pools are located on top of commercial buildings, especially near edges to achieve the best aesthetics, people question their safety. The answer is that they are safe; just because the water overflows and it appears like you might fall over does not mean that there isn't a barrier pool wall on the overflowing side. The flowing current is also not strong enough to push you out of the pool.
The only danger would arise if you decided to sit on the barrier wall where the water is overflowing. You might accidentally slip and fall off the edge. Resting your elbows on the wall is, however, safe and is done by many people.
Contact an infinity pool builder to learn more.
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It used to be relatively easy to design pools for blocks, as you'd just look at the backyard and figure up which rectangular or kidney shaped pool could fit in the yard. With all sorts of new block shapes occurring when people subdivide old blocks, it can be more challenging to fit a traditional pool into a yard. However, some innovative pool designers and homeowners have come up with great pools that fit on unusually shaped blocks and make the most of limited space. This blog highlights some of the pools I have seen online and in real life that have impressed me with great design. I hope you like it.