Natural Swimming Pools Make a Ripple The classic rectangular or oval pool with stone coping and complementary deck, diving board or slide, and metal steps, still holds appeal for many who are adding or remodeling a pool. But natural pools that resemble ponds or swimming holes have become increasingly popular, with their interiors plastered dark blue, gray, or even black; popular features include clusters of rock, waterfalls spilling over outcroppings, a diving boulder, water-loving plants, and salt water. But, an even newer generation of natural swimming pools has started to gain attention, after first making a splash in Europe. Their look can be similar, or resemble more traditional designs. What differentiates this latest version is that water is cleansed without using chlorine. Instead, beneficial bacterial and micro-organisms, in conjunction with aquatic plants rooted hydroponically in gravel and rocks, filter water in an adjacent pool, known as a “regeneration” zone. Then, the water is pumped back clean to the swimming pool, so it’s safe for swimming. It’s similar to how wetlands treat water more benignly than chemicals can do. Consider all the pros and cons before you wade in: • Great design flexibility. While natural swimming pools can be integrated seamlessly into a site, they can also be designed in any style—even a formal Grecian or Roman pool. • General health benefits. They are a good alternative for those with skin allergies, or who don’t want to be subjected to chlorine. Know, however, that there still may be minute algae particles.
Pools The sky’s the limit with pools. Most above-ground pools are the affordable option, followed by inground pools with vinyl liners, gunite in-ground pools, and lastly, natural swimming pools, the most costly. Because of a site’s topography, trees and bushes, and all the bells and whistles you might include such as steps, boulders, slides, decking, lights, cleaning pumps, heaters, and more, it’s impossible to provide cost estimates. The key is to be sure you compare apples to apples when you shop for the pool, plus take into account the excavation and installation costs.
• Need for extra land. They require a larger site because of the regeneration zone. If you design a 700-square-foot (65-squaremeter) pool, for instance, you need another pool of equal size. With community rules about setbacks and how much impervious surface you can have on a property, your yard may not be large enough to accommodate it. Don’t install a pool smaller than a total of 535 square feet (50 square meters). • Higher initial cost. They cost more to build than conventional pools because of the need to construct two, though per-square costs are similar.They typically cost less to operate because of the absence of chlorine and other chemicals, and their ability to use a smaller pump and less energy. • Less than perfectly clear water. The color of the water isn’t always crystal clear, but it is safe for swimming. Color varies, based on such factors as nutrient balance, temperature, and precipitation. Some algae and sediment will always be present.
Top: This Connecticut site had an existing pond that BioNova Natural Pools transformed into a natural pool. Bottom: For a vacation home in Maine, BioNova Natural Pools rooted the plants in gravel in the regeneration zone, which clarifies and purifies water for the swimming zone. Right: In New Jersey, BioNova Natural Pools designed a pool in collaboration with pond designer Anthony Archer Wills. Big boulders were trucked in from Pennsylvania and carefully placed as if they’d always existed.
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