Swimming Pool Design | Architecture & Construction

Swimming Pool Design | Architecture & Construction

Swimming Pool Design by Neesaun Zarbakhat Architecture transcends mere functionality, crafting aquatic havens that embody elegance, innovation, and harmonious integration with the surrounding environment. Their designs go beyond the ordinary, incorporating unique features and materials to create visually stunning pools and perfectly suited to the Central Asian climate. Neesaun Zarbakhat’s team meticulously considers every aspect, from selecting energy-efficient equipment to carefully placing lighting and landscaping. Whether your vision is a sleek, modern oasis or a tranquil, natural retreat, their expertise ensures a seamless blend of aesthetics and functionality, resulting in a pool that is not only a source of leisure but also a true reflection of your personal style and a testament to exceptional design.

We’ll translate your vision into stunning 3D renderings and detailed blueprints, allowing you to visualize your dream pool before construction begins.

Design Styles

Classic & Timeless

Roman & Grecian: Inspired by ancient civilizations, these pools often feature grand columns, intricate mosaics, and symmetrical layouts. A Grecian pool might boast clean lines and white marble, while a Roman pool could showcase a more ornate and colorful design.
Traditional: Evoking a sense of nostalgia, traditional pools often have rectangular shapes, brick or stone coping, and classic details like fountains or statues.
Colonial: With a nod to historical architecture, colonial pools exude elegance and refinement. They often feature symmetrical layouts, arched doorways, and wrought-iron accents.

Modern & Minimalist

Modern: Clean lines, geometric shapes, and a focus on functionality define modern pool designs. Minimalist landscaping and sleek materials like concrete or glass complement this aesthetic.
Contemporary: Contemporary pools embrace current trends and often feature unique shapes, innovative materials, and bold design elements. Infinity edges, vanishing edges, and integrated spas are common features.
Mid-Century Modern: Inspired by the design movement of the mid-20th century, these pools often feature clean lines, organic shapes, and a connection to nature.

Exotic & Natural

Tropical: Lush greenery, waterfalls, and natural stone create a tropical paradise in your backyard. These pools often have freeform shapes and incorporate features like grottos and lagoons.
Balinese: Inspired by the tranquil beauty of Bali, these pools feature lush foliage, natural stone, and handcrafted details. They often include relaxation areas like gazebos or pavilions.
Mediterranean: Evoking the charm of the Mediterranean coast, these pools often have curved shapes, terracotta tiles, and vibrant blue water.
Natural & Organic: Blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, natural pools use plants and biological filtration to create a sustainable and eco-friendly swimming environment.

Regional & Thematic

Tuscan: Tuscan-style pools transport you to the Italian countryside with their rustic stonework, terracotta accents, and sprawling vineyards.
Central Coast: Inspired by the California coast, these pools often feature natural materials, relaxed vibes, and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions.
Woodlands: Nestled amongst trees and foliage, woodland pools create a sense of seclusion and serenity. Natural stone, waterfalls, and native plantings complete the look.

Size, Area, and Depth

Popular Pool Sizes and Dimensions

Small Pools: For limited spaces or those seeking a refreshing dip, small pools like 10 x 20, 12 x 24, or even mini plunge pools offer a compact yet enjoyable experience. These pools can be cleverly incorporated into courtyards, patios, or even rooftops.
Medium-Sized Pools: Ideal for family fun and entertaining, medium-sized pools, typically around 15 x 30, 16 x 32, or 20 x 40, offer ample space for swimming, splashing, and lounging.
Large Pools: If you have the space and budget, a large pool, such as an 18 x 48 (or even larger), provides a luxurious swimming experience. These pools often feature multiple areas for different activities, such as a shallow end for kids, a deep end for diving, and a lap space for exercise.
Specialty Pools: Lap pools are designed for fitness enthusiasts, while geometric or freeform pools add visual interest to your landscape.

Depth Considerations

Shallow End: Typically 3 to 4 feet deep, the shallow end is perfect for children, lounging, and water games.
Deep End: Ranging from 5 to 8 feet deep, the deep end accommodates diving, cannonballs, and other activities requiring more depth.
Diving Pools: Pools with diving boards or platforms require a minimum depth of 8 to 10 feet for safety.

Shape and Layout

Rectangular: The most common pool shape, rectangular pools are versatile and can fit into various backyard layouts.
Oval: Oval pools offer a softer, more organic look and can complement curved landscapes.
Freeform: Freeform pools offer the most design flexibility, allowing you to create a unique and personalized shape that fits your backyard’s contours.
L-Shaped: L-shaped pools can create distinct zones for different activities, such as swimming and lounging.

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“Innovative Designs, Exceptional Service” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“We hired NZA for our new office building and were blown away by their creativity and professionalism. They listened to our needs and translated them into a modern, functional space that exceeded our expectations. The team was responsive and communicative throughout the entire process, making it a truly enjoyable experience.”

Cintia Le Corre

Chairman, Harmony Corporation

Transform Your Space into a Tranquil Oasis

Neesaun Zarbakhat Architecture specializes in crafting exquisite swimming pool designs that elevate your lifestyle and enhance your property’s value. Our team of skilled architects and designers will work closely with you to create a personalized haven that reflects your unique taste and complements the beauty of your surroundings. From concept to completion, we handle every aspect of your project, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.

Our Services Include

Conceptualization & Design: We’ll translate your vision into stunning 3D renderings and detailed blueprints, allowing you to visualize your dream pool before construction begins.
Material Selection & Construction: We’ll guide you in choosing the perfect materials, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal. Our network of trusted contractors will execute the construction with precision and expertise.
Landscaping & Lighting: We’ll create a captivating poolside environment with lush greenery, ambient lighting, and thoughtful design elements that enhance the overall ambiance.

Contact us today for a free consultation and let us turn your swimming pool dreams into a refreshing reality.

Swimming Pool Design Plans

Embracing Nature’s Beauty

Bio Border: Integrate a lush bio border around your pool, creating a seamless transition between the water and your landscape. Native plants, colorful blooms, and fragrant herbs can make your pool area feel like a private paradise.
Natural Stone Coping: Opt for natural stone coping to add a touch of rustic elegance to your pool’s edge. The irregular shapes and textures of slate or flagstone create a visually appealing and slip-resistant surface.

Creative Pool Shapes and Features

Freeform Pools: Break free from the traditional rectangular pool and embrace the organic beauty of freeform designs. These pools mimic the natural curves of ponds and lakes, adding a sense of tranquility to your backyard.
Negative Edge Pools: Also known as vanishing edge or infinity pools, these designs create the illusion of water extending to the horizon, offering a dramatic and luxurious effect. They’re perfect for properties with scenic views.
Tiered Pools: Add visual interest and functionality with a tiered pool design. Different levels can accommodate various activities, from shallow wading areas for children to deeper sections for swimming laps.

Maximizing Space and Style

Skinny Dipping Pools: If space is limited, consider a sleek and slender skinny dipping pool. These long and narrow designs are perfect for small backyards or courtyards, offering a refreshing escape without sacrificing style.
Corner Pools: Utilize an unused corner of your yard with a cleverly designed corner pool. These space-saving designs can be customized to fit any shape or size, adding a touch of luxury to even the most compact outdoor areas.

Enhancing the Pool Experience

Splash Pads and Water Features: Create a playful atmosphere with splash pads, waterfalls, or fountains. These features add visual appeal and provide hours of entertainment for children and adults alike.
Wading Pools and Beach Entries: A shallow wading pool or beach entry creates a gentle transition into the water, perfect for young children or those seeking a relaxing experience.

Prioritizing Safety and Comfort

Pool Covers and Enclosures: Protect your pool from debris and maintain water temperature with a pool cover. For year-round enjoyment, consider a covered or enclosed pool structure.
Pool Safety Features: Install safety features such as fencing, alarms, and non-slip surfaces to ensure a safe environment for everyone.

Swimming Pool Design Location & Types

Types of Swimming Pool Design

Inground Pools: Inground pools are the classic choice, seamlessly blending into the landscape. They offer limitless design possibilities, from basic rectangular shapes to freeform masterpieces with vanishing edges and custom features. However, they require significant excavation and construction, making them a more substantial investment.
Aboveground Pools: If you’re on a budget or looking for a quicker installation, aboveground pools are an attractive alternative. These prefabricated structures are available in various sizes and shapes, and modern designs can be surprisingly stylish.
Semi-Inground Pools: Combining the best of both worlds, semi-inground pools are partially buried, offering a more integrated look than aboveground pools while being less expensive than fully inground options.

Location, Location, Location!

Outdoor Pools: The traditional outdoor pool basks in sunlight and fresh air, perfect for summer fun and entertaining. They can be enhanced with landscaping, patios, and pool houses to create a complete outdoor living space.
Indoor Pools: For year-round enjoyment, regardless of weather, indoor pools are a fantastic option. They require careful planning for ventilation, humidity control, and natural light integration.
Basement Pools: If you have ample basement space, an indoor pool can be a unique and exciting addition to your home. Proper waterproofing and structural considerations are essential.

Design Considerations

Size and Shape: Pool size and shape should be determined by available space, intended use, and budget.
Entry and Exit: Consider options like traditional ladders, steps, or beach entries for easy access.
Enclosures and Screen Enclosures: Protect your pool from debris and extend the swimming season with enclosures or screens.
Pool Surround: The area around your pool is just as important as the pool itself. Choose materials like concrete, pavers, or decking that complement your home’s architecture and create a safe and inviting environment.

Extra Touches

Water Features: Add a touch of elegance and fun with waterfalls, fountains, or even a swim-up bar.
Lighting: Illuminate your pool for nighttime swims and create a magical ambiance with underwater or landscape lighting.
Landscaping: Integrate your pool with the surrounding landscape through thoughtful planting and design.

Swimming Pool Constructions & Architecture

Types of Swimming Pool Constructions

Residential Pools: The heart of countless homes, residential pools range from simple, elegant designs to elaborate backyard oases. They transform backyards into private retreats for relaxation, exercise, and entertainment.
Commercial Pools: Built for public use, commercial pools include those found in hotels, resorts, aquatic centers, and fitness clubs. They cater to a wider range of activities and must adhere to stringent safety and accessibility standards.
Specialized Pools: Beyond the typical, specialized pools serve unique purposes. This includes therapy pools for rehabilitation, competition pools for sports, and plunge pools for compact spaces.

Construction Considerations

Design and Planning: Pool designs should harmonize with the surrounding architecture and landscape. Considerations include size, shape, depth, features (waterfalls, slides, spas), and materials.
Site Preparation: This involves clearing the lot, excavating the pool area, and ensuring proper drainage and soil conditions.
Pool Shell Construction: The pool shell forms the structure and can be made of various materials like concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl.
Plumbing and Filtration: A complex network of pipes and filters ensures clean and safe water circulation.
Finishing Touches: This includes coping, decking, tiling, and landscaping to create an inviting poolside environment.

Structural Integrity and Safety First

Digging and Excavation: The foundation of your pool starts with careful digging and excavation, ensuring a stable base for the structure.
Wall Structural and Reinforcement: Sturdy walls, often made of concrete or shotcrete, are reinforced with steel to withstand water pressure and ground movement.
Retaining Walls: If your pool is situated on a slope, retaining walls are crucial to prevent soil erosion and maintain the structural integrity of your pool.
Slab and Flooring: The pool floor, or slab, must be smooth, durable, and properly sloped for drainage.
Steps and Ladders: Safe and convenient entry and exit points are essential. Consider incorporating wide, comfortable steps or a sturdy ladder for easy access.

Aesthetic Enhancements

Mosaic Tiles: Transform your pool into a work of art with vibrant mosaic tiles. Choose from a variety of colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique and personalized look.
Lighting: Underwater lighting sets the mood and extends your swimming hours into the evening. Strategically placed LED wall lights or fiber optic lighting can add a touch of magic.
Paint and Finishes: Opt for durable, water-resistant paint or finishes that enhance the aesthetics of your pool and protect it from the elements.

Concrete Pools: The Classic Choice

Gunite and Shotcrete: Gunite, or dry-mix shotcrete, is sprayed onto a rebar framework, allowing for flexibility in creating custom shapes, including freeform gunite designs. This method offers exceptional durability and longevity.
Concrete Blocks: Besser blocks or cinder blocks provide a more budget-friendly alternative, particularly for rectangular pools. They are sturdy but might require additional reinforcement for complex shapes.

Fiberglass Pools: The Smooth and Swift Solution

Fiberglass Shell: Pre-manufactured fiberglass pools come in various sizes and shapes, offering a quick installation process and a smooth, algae-resistant surface.

Vinyl Liner Pools: Versatility and Affordability

Vinyl Liner: A vinyl liner, typically made of PVC, is fitted within a structural frame, creating a watertight seal. Vinyl liners come in a wide array of colors and patterns, like the light blue liner, boulder swirl liner, or black onyx liner, allowing for personalization. They offer a smoother feel than concrete but may require replacement over time.

Other Materials:

Wood: While less common, wooden pools offer a natural and rustic aesthetic. They require specialized construction and meticulous maintenance to prevent rot and leaks.
Stone: Natural stone can be used for pool coping and surrounding patios, creating a luxurious and timeless look.
Glass: Glass tiles or even entire glass walls add a touch of modern elegance and allow for stunning underwater views.
Ceramic: Ceramic tiles offer a classic, durable, and easy-to-clean surface for pool interiors and surrounding areas.

Swimming Pool Design | Safety and Security

Fencing and Gates: A secure fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate is essential to prevent unauthorized access and ensure the safety of children and pets.
Railings: Install sturdy railings around the pool perimeter for added safety, especially for those with mobility challenges.
Pool Covers: A pool cover helps keep your pool clean, reduces water evaporation, and provides an additional layer of safety when the pool is not in use.

Swimming Pool Design | Additional Features

Slides: Add a touch of fun and excitement with a slide. Choose from a variety of styles and sizes to suit your pool and preferences.
Water Features: Waterfalls, fountains, and bubblers create a soothing ambiance and enhance the visual appeal of your pool

Swimming Pool Applications

Traditional Havens

Backyard Bliss: The backyard remains the most popular location for a swimming pool, and for good reason. It provides ample space for a pool, patio, and surrounding landscaping, creating a complete outdoor retreat.
Garden Sanctuaries: Nestled amidst lush greenery, a garden pool offers a serene escape. Imagine a tranquil oasis with a freeform pool, a cascading waterfall, and the shade of a pergola.

Creative Integrations

Courtyard Pools: Even in urban settings with limited space, a courtyard pool can offer a refreshing oasis. Clever design and space-saving techniques can transform a small courtyard into a luxurious retreat.
Terrace and Balcony Pools: Rooftop terraces and balconies offer stunning views and a unique setting for a pool. Plunge pools or even suspended glass-bottomed pools can create a dramatic statement.
Patio Paradise: Extend your living space with a pool adjacent to your patio. This seamless integration creates a multi-functional outdoor area for entertaining, dining, and relaxation.

Indoor Escapes

Basement Pools: Basements offer a unique opportunity to create a private indoor pool, ideal for year-round enjoyment. Consider a glass enclosure to maximize natural light and create an airy feel.

Multi-Functional Swimming Pool Design Spaces

Poolside Cabanas: A poolside cabana provides shade, changing facilities, and a comfortable gathering spot.
Outdoor Kitchens: Combine the pleasures of swimming and dining with an outdoor kitchen adjacent to your pool.

Innovative Swimming Pool Design Solutions

Natural Pools: Embrace ecological design with a natural pool that utilizes plants and biological filtration to maintain water quality, creating a harmonious ecosystem.
Container Pools: Repurposed shipping containers offer a trendy and sustainable solution for creating a unique pool experience.

Swimming Pool Features

Functional & Inviting

Deck: A spacious and well-designed deck surrounding your pool provides ample space for lounging, sunbathing, and entertaining. Consider using durable, weather-resistant materials that complement your home’s architecture.
Seating Area: Create a cozy and inviting seating area near the pool with comfortable outdoor furniture. This offers a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the view or socialize with friends and family.
Sunken Seating Area: A sunken seating area, built into the pool deck, adds a unique touch and encourages conversation. It’s also a great way to keep cool on hot summer days.
Tanning Ledge or Sun Shelf: A shallow shelf built into the pool, perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun. It’s also a great spot for young children to play safely in the water.
Spa: Incorporate a spa or hot tub adjacent to your pool for the ultimate relaxation experience. Enjoy soothing hydrotherapy and warm water any time of year.
Changing Room and Shower: A dedicated changing room and shower area offer convenience and privacy for pool users.
Entertaining Area: Design a designated space for outdoor gatherings and entertaining. This could include an outdoor kitchen, dining area, or even a fire pit for cozy evenings.

Swimming Pool Design Innovative & Luxurious

Floating Deck: A floating deck, seemingly suspended on the water’s surface, adds a touch of elegance and creates a unique lounging space.
Safe Room: For added security and peace of mind, consider incorporating a safe room near the pool area.
Poolside Cabana: A poolside cabana offers shade, privacy, and a luxurious retreat for relaxation and entertaining.

Swimming Pool Landscaping & Hardscaping

Greenery that Enchants

Plant Room Layout: Strategically plan your pool’s surrounding landscape to create distinct zones for relaxation, entertainment, and privacy. Consider the mature size of plants to avoid overcrowding and ensure proper sunlight access.
Plants and Scapes: Select a diverse mix of plants that thrive in your local climate and soil conditions. Opt for varieties that offer visual interest throughout the year with colorful blooms, foliage variations, or striking textures.
Privacy: Enhance privacy with strategically placed tall shrubs, hedges, or ornamental grasses.

Hardscape Foundations

Paver Walkways and Patios: Create a sense of luxury and visual appeal with paver walkways and patios. Herringbone patterns or contrasting colors can add a unique touch.
Retaining Walls and Terracing: If your property has slopes, utilize retaining walls to create terraced levels, adding visual interest and maximizing usable space.
Decorative Fencing: Surround your pool area with a decorative fence that enhances privacy and safety while complementing the overall aesthetic.

Water Features and Natural Elements

Fountains and Falls: The gentle sounds of flowing water create a soothing ambiance. A fountain or waterfall can serve as a captivating focal point in your pool design.
Natural Pond or Swim Pond: If you desire a more organic look, consider incorporating a natural pond or swim pond into your landscape. These eco-friendly options blend seamlessly with the environment.
Waterfalls and Fountains: The soothing sounds of cascading water create a tranquil ambiance. Consider incorporating a waterfall or fountain as a captivating focal point.
Streams and Ponds: Enhance the natural feel of your landscape with a meandering stream or a tranquil pond. These features can also attract beneficial wildlife to your pool area.

Functional and Stylish Accents

Fire Features: A fire pit or fireplace adds warmth and ambiance, extending your poolside enjoyment into cooler evenings.
BBQ and Bar Areas: Designate a space for outdoor cooking and entertaining with a built-in BBQ grill and bar area.
Feature Walls: A stone or tile feature wall can add a dramatic backdrop to your pool area. Incorporate a cascading water feature or a built-in fireplace for added impact.
Swim-up Bar: Create a resort-like experience with a swim-up bar, allowing guests to enjoy refreshments without leaving the pool.

Décor and Furnishings

Seating Areas: Arrange comfortable lounge chairs, outdoor sofas, or even hammocks around the pool for relaxation and socializing.
Mesh Floating Chairs: These trendy chairs add a playful touch and offer a unique way to enjoy the water.
Farm Décor: Embrace a rustic charm with farm-inspired décor elements like weathered wood accents, vintage lanterns, and galvanized metal planters.

Seasonal Accents

Fall Features: As the seasons change, update your poolside décor with fall-themed elements like pumpkins, gourds, and colorful foliage.

Hardscaping that Harmonizes:

Decking and Patios: Extend your living space with a spacious deck or patio that surrounds your pool. This creates an ideal spot for lounging, sunbathing, and al fresco dining.
Walkways and Paths: Guide the flow of movement around your pool area with walkways and paths made from natural stone, pavers, or concrete.
Fencing: Secure your pool area with fencing that complements the overall design aesthetic. Consider a perforated fence to maintain visibility while ensuring safety and privacy.

Swimming Pool Design Special Touches

Beach Entry: Recreate the gentle slope of a beach with a gradually sloping pool entrance. This design is ideal for families with young children or those seeking easy access to the water.
Lighting: Illuminate your pool area with strategically placed landscape lighting to create a magical ambiance in the evenings.

Swimming Pool Design Key Considerations

Climate and Soil Conditions: Select plants that are well-suited to your local environment. Consider factors such as sunlight exposure, water requirements, and soil drainage.
Safety and Accessibility: Ensure safe access around the pool area with non-slip surfaces and adequate lighting.
Maintenance: Opt for low-maintenance plants and hardscaping materials to reduce upkeep.

Swimming Pool Mechanical Systems

The Heart of the System: Pumps and Filtration

Pump and Pump Room: The pump is the powerhouse that drives water circulation throughout the pool. A dedicated pump room houses the pump, filter, and other mechanical equipment.
Filtration System: This system removes debris and contaminants from the water, ensuring clarity and hygiene. Sand filters, cartridge filters, and diatomaceous earth (DE) filters are common options, each with its own advantages.
Plug & Swim Filter Pallet: For smaller pools or those with limited space, a compact plug & swim filter pallet combines the pump and filter into a single, convenient unit.

Water Circulation and Sanitation

Piping and Pipework Layout: A network of pipes carries water from the pool to the filter and back, ensuring continuous circulation. Proper pipe layout is crucial for efficient water flow and ease of maintenance.
Skimmer: Skimmers collect debris from the water’s surface, preventing it from sinking to the bottom of the pool.
Main Drain: Located at the deepest point of the pool, the main drain helps remove debris and ensures proper circulation.
Gutter or Perimeter Overflow: A gutter or perimeter overflow system collects water that spills over the pool’s edge, preventing flooding and maintaining a clean deck area.

Heating and Comfort

Solar Heater: Harnessing the sun’s energy, a solar heater can be an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to warm your pool water.
Heat Pump: A heat pump efficiently transfers heat from the surrounding air to the pool water, even in cooler temperatures.
Hot Tub or Jacuzzi: Add a touch of luxury and relaxation with a built-in hot tub or jacuzzi.

Other Swimming Pool Design Essential Systems

Electrical System: Powers the pump, lights, and other electrical components of the pool. Proper wiring and grounding are crucial for safety.
Lighting System: Strategically placed underwater lights and landscape lighting create ambiance and enhance safety for nighttime swimming.
Dehumidification System: In indoor pools, a dehumidification system controls moisture levels to prevent condensation and mold growth.

Collaborative Swimming Pool Design

The design of a pool’s mechanical system often involves collaboration between architects, engineers, and specialized pool contractors. MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) consultants play a vital role in ensuring that all systems integrate seamlessly and meet local building codes.

Swimming Pool Design | Key Considerations

Pool Size and Type: The size and type of your pool influence the type and size of equipment required.
Energy Efficiency: Choose energy-efficient pumps, filters, and heaters to reduce operating costs.
Maintenance: Opt for systems that are easy to maintain and have readily available replacement parts.

The mechanical system is the backbone of any swimming pool, ensuring clean, safe, and comfortable water for years to come. By working closely with experienced professionals and considering your specific needs and budget, you can create a pool that not only looks beautiful but also functions flawlessly.

Swimming Pool Design | Remember

Regular Maintenance: Proper maintenance is key to keeping your pool’s mechanical systems in optimal condition.
Professional Inspections: Schedule periodic inspections with a qualified pool technician to identify and address any potential issues.

With careful planning and attention to detail, your swimming pool will be a source of endless enjoyment for you and your loved ones.