The swimming pool is indeed the most popular addition to any backyard, and with summer in full swing, now is the time to have fun with pool parties and outdoor barbecues. With contemporary homeowners and architects even bringing the swimming pool indoors, you can now enjoy this delight all year long! But nothing quite matches the timeless charm and amazing serenity of a natural swimming pool that is surrounded by the goodness of nature! Natural pools bring along with them a host of advantages and transform your backyard landscape into a dreamy and panoramic getaway that is always accessible.

by Becker Studios

While some of us might be blessed with a spacious backyard that can play host to a truly extensive and enchanting landscape with a natural pool, others with smaller contemporary homes can opt for more compact and improvised versions of this mesmerizing addition. Nature-centric and heavenly, here are some breathtaking inspirations that showcase the very best from the world of natural pools –

by Genus Loci Ecological Landscapes

by Locati Architects

by Armond Aquatech Pools / Halkin Photography

by Freddy Landscape

Going Completely Natural

A truly natural swimming pool is much more than the mere aesthetics that it exudes. Surrounded by several layers of plants and relying on greenery and nature to cleanse the water on a regular basis, natural pools are completely chemical-free. This obviously means that they will have no negative effect on your skin and actually aid in improving your health over time. To create a beautiful and functioning natural pool, a larger landscape needs to be created which facilitates water circulation and purification using a regeneration zone.

by Genus Loci Ecological Landscapes

by R. P. Marzilli & Company Landscape Contractor

The regeneration zone of a natural pool is relative to the size of the pool itself and the amount of water that it needs to filter on a daily basis. Even small backyards can host natural pools that are smaller in size by adding a regeneration area that is proportional. Floating plants and submerged, rooted plants within the pool help improve the water quality and maintain the right oxygen content, while other plants on the periphery add to the appeal of the pool and help sustain the complex ecosystem.

by Legacy Landscapes

by Robins Nest Aquatics

by Bradanini & Associates

Waterfalls and Landscape

The allure of a natural pool is not just in the benefits that it offers. In fact, most homeowners invest in this eye-catching addition for aesthetics and a sense of proximity with nature. Waterfalls are quickly becoming one of the hottest trends in outdoor pool designs, and there is no reason why you cannot add them to your natural pool as well. This also helps in keeping the water fresh while visually creating the aura of an exotic, tropical destination. Once again, size is not a constraint, and as some of the inspirations below showcase, even the smallest of natural pools can feature an impressive and captivating waterfall addition.

by Alderwood Landscaping

by Kane Brothers Water Features

Natural rocks are another important part of shaping the landscape around the natural pool. Huge basalt rocks might be an expensive choice, but they do add a touch of authenticity to your natural pool. The shape of the pool is also another important factor that determines its overall appeal, and dropping the simple straight lines for irregular curves and patterns is a good idea. Top it all off with the right LED lighting, and your natural pool looks even more enthralling after sunset!

by Placid Pools

by Poole’s Stone and Garden

by The Landmark Group

Drawing Inspiration from Nature!

One of the obvious setbacks of natural pools is the maintenance that they take, and they are often far more demanding in terms of the care they require 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 of the pool, some greenery and a landscape that is nature-centric are a perfect way to give your existing pool a “greener tinge”.

by One Specialty Landscape Design, Pools & Hardscape

by Pool Environments

The maintenance costs of a natural pool are almost the same as that of chlorinated pool, but the care that they do require is completely different and involves maintaining a delicate balance between the pool and the surrounding landscape. Yet with eco-consciousness becoming a major factor in defining homes and the landscape that surrounds them in recent times, the popularity of natural swimming pools is indeed on the up. Some of these can also easily be transformed into gorgeous ponds over time.

So, are you tempted to take the green plunge this summer?

by Waterscapes – Jesse Dutra

by Designworks

by Cipriano Landscape Design & Custom Swimming Pools

by Creative Environments

by Water Wizard Custom Pools and Service