XL-Trainer Pool Installation in Bishop’s Waltham, Hampshire
The Brief
The clients approached this project with a clear vision: to create a tranquil oasis within their existing garden. They desired a space that would seamlessly integrate with the natural beauty of their surroundings, providing a sense of escape and tranquility. This meant the pool couldn’t be a jarring addition, but rather a harmonious element that complemented the lush greenery and existing landscape design. The goal was to achieve a sense of balance between the modern aesthetic of the pool and the natural beauty of the garden, creating a space that felt both contemporary and timeless.
Central to their vision was the desire for a sleek, rectangular pool. This classic shape was chosen for its clean lines and timeless appeal, reflecting a preference for understated elegance over elaborate design. The rectangular form also lends itself well to lap swimming, indicating the clients’ desire for a pool that could be used for both exercise and relaxation. They envisioned the pool as a sophisticated and functional addition to their garden, providing a space for both active recreation and peaceful contemplation.
Beyond its functionality, the pool was also intended to serve as a striking centerpiece for the garden. The clients wanted a design that would draw the eye and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the landscape. This meant careful consideration of not just the pool itself, but also its surrounding elements, such as paving and planting. The final design needed to be a harmonious blend of form and function, creating a visually stunning focal point that would elevate the entire garden and provide a luxurious retreat for the homeowners.
The Design
The pool is designed as a 11m x 4m rectangular oasis with clean lines and contemporary features. It is bordered by a spacious slate-tiled deck that complements the modern aesthetic. The pool’s centerpiece is an elegant, curved stainless-steel water feature that adds both visual and auditory elements of tranquility. The water flows gently from the feature, creating a calming ambiance that enhances the overall atmosphere of the garden.
The surrounding area is thoughtfully designed with comfortable, stylish outdoor furniture, offering a perfect spot for relaxation or entertaining guests. The deck extends seamlessly to a beautifully crafted garden pavilion, providing a shaded retreat for enjoying the outdoors in comfort.
The Challenges
This project presented a unique challenge: seamlessly integrating a large pool into an established garden without compromising its existing natural beauty. The mature landscape, with its established trees, was a key feature of the property, and preserving the existing landscaping was paramount. This required meticulous planning and careful execution to ensure minimal disruption to the environment. Every step, from the initial site survey to the final landscaping touches, was carefully considered to protect the existing flora and fauna.
One of the key aspects of this careful approach involved the sensitive handling of existing trees. To accommodate the pool and its surrounding infrastructure, some smaller trees needed to be relocated. This was done with the utmost care, using specialised transplanting techniques to ensure their survival and continued health. Protecting the root systems and providing adequate support during the move were crucial to minimising stress on the trees and ensuring their successful integration into the new landscape design.
Furthermore, the client was particularly concerned about maintaining the garden’s peaceful ambience. To address this, the plant room, which houses the pool’s filtration and heating systems, was strategically positioned at a considerable distance from the pool itself. This thoughtful placement not only minimised noise pollution but also ensured that the technical equipment remained discreetly hidden from view, preserving the garden’s visual serenity and the overall aesthetic appeal.
The Outcome
The pool has become a stunning focal point of the property, providing a perfect blend of modern design and natural beauty. The client now enjoys a private, tranquil oasis that is ideal for both solitary swims and social gatherings. The combination of high-quality materials, careful landscaping, and innovative water management solutions has resulted in a pool that is not only beautiful but also efficient and easy to maintain.
Client testimonial: “The pool has exceeded our expectations. It blends perfectly with our garden, and the water feature adds that extra touch of tranquility. We’re thrilled with how it turned out.”
This project was awarded a Gold Standard for One-Piece Pool of the Year at the 2024 UK Pool & Spa Awards.
