Swimming pool designs can successfully combine safety with creativity, but also need to be closely aligned to the particular requirements of users. Specialist pool industry association SPATA provides some design advice.
The design of a swimming pool, whether indoors or outdoors, will materially depend on the requirements of the potential pool owner and the particular use to which the pool is going to be put.
If the plan is to use the pool for exercise, then the length is all-important – although a counter current unit can often be installed to reduce the size of the pool. If the pool is to be constructed in a building, the width is the key factor, as the width of the pool will determine the width of the building (including the pool surround for walking on). The construction cost resulting from the width of the building tends to be much more expensive than its length, due to the span required over the void below.
The design process can be made easier by working with a member of the Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association (SPATA). Whether or not architects have worked on a pool project before, the expert advice and assistance that members can provide can help in various ways. Not only in streamlining the project but also to ensure that the timescales and budgets are met with an overall assurance of quality.
Some SPATA members are designers in their own right and some can undertake the whole project, but ensure that whoever you work with has Professional Indemnity (PI) insurance. Consideration of relevant pool standards is a must, both for commercial and domestic pools and best practice means adhering to industry-specific standards, while also taking other related standards into account.
Creative freedom
For many years, it has been the norm that the rectangular 2:1 length to width proportional ratio for swimming pools provides an appropriate visual balance and appearance, and is ideal for exercise. Depending on space availability however, the length can be extended and the width reduced. As this shape is
relatively simple to construct and therefore relatively cheaper compared with curved structures, it is also very popular!
Once the decision is made to go away from a rectangular or square shape, the variations in shapes possible are endless. For example, some clients (and architects) may want something unique and personal, such as a ‘figure of eight’; L or Y-shaped, or kidney shaped pools. More unusual shape requirements have included guitars or grand pianos, and pools may be required to incorporate spas, fountains or waterfalls.
Access required to the pool is usage-dependant. For example, a Roman end step feature in the width of the pool may preclude the swimmer from easily turning and, therefore, a ladder (or ladders) may be more appropriate. Alternatively, if space permits, a side step bay may be the answer.
Regarding safety and usage, there may be equipment that needs to be factored in from the offset. Planning and building these features in will help retain the aesthetics of the pool that could be lost by ad hoc additions at a later date. Again, the shape and positioning of the pool is a factor that could affect these added features.
The only way to illuminate pool water is underwater floodlighting. Lights around and outside the pool will not illuminate under the water. Equally fibre-optics and small, spa type lights are excellent for illuminating steps under water or providing a light feature, but not full illumination.
SPATA – representing installation quality
The Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association (SPATA) represents approximately 175 swimming pool companies in the UK, Ireland and overseas, including designers, contractors, service engineers, trade suppliers and retailers of pool equipment and ancillaries. For specifiers the benefits of using a SPATA member are clear, as the association has an internationally-respected reputation for quality, works with other industry bodies to set standards and requires members work to an industry Code of Ethics. The organisation also runs the Spatex Pool, Spa & Wellness Show which next year is taking place at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry from 31 January-2 February.
While a well-installed pool provides years of healthy pleasure – and a healthy increase in the value of a property, creating a swimming pool demands a wide range of specialist skills. To have a trouble-free installation, it is essential to select a reputable supplier. SPATA members have to meet minimum criteria before they are accepted into membership, and the organisation sets standards governing construction and operation of pools, spas, saunas and steam rooms – our members have to follow these. Members’ work is inspected before they can join, and periodically re-inspected afterwards. The organisation also provides technical advice for both members and customers, as well as water treatment training courses.
With so many pool design options available, it makes great business sense for construction and architectural professionals to partner up with companies who promote industry standards, and offer a wealth of experience.