To get the most out of your backyard this summer, there’s nothing better than an in ground swimming pool! It is perfect to host a party, to keep the kids occupied, to cool down, and (most importantly!) to relax.
Once again this year, exterior designers have outdone themselves in creating dream worthy in-ground pools! Are you preparing to have one installed or to improve the layout of the one you already have? It’s best to be aware of the latest trends.
1— A New Product: 100% Stainless Steel Pools
Spas and swimming pools completely made of stainless steel have been popular for about 15 years. In Quebec, the trend is brand new despite it being perfectly suited to our winters. Indeed, these pools are more durable than other types, more environmentally friendly (stainless steel is 100% recyclable), and more hygienic since dirt does not adhere to the walls. Furthermore, the surface of water reflects a mixture of turquoise and emerald green hues. Such models are custom-built to suit individual needs, such as moulded benches or built-in stairs. The caveat is that these high-end products are expensive.
2— Overflowing With Style
Overflow pools offer an awe-inspiring and refined look thanks to their mirror effect. The principle is simple: water flows over one or more sides into a receptacle and back into the main basin. The water line is therefore at the same level as the deck, which makes the water shimmer.
3— Smaller is Popular
There is a strong demand for compact shallow basins. One of the reasons is that the size of plots continues to shrink. These smaller pools have the advantage of requiring less maintenance and the volume of water they contain is easier to heat.
4— A Beach Entry Pool? How Practical!
Most in-ground pool manufacturers offer beach entry pool models, i.e. in which a portion of the floor is shallower than the rest. This is ideal for those who don’t want to get too wet or as a play area for toddlers. You can even place a few lounge chairs in this zone to sunbathe.
5— A Movable Floor to Maximize Space
To make the most out of every square metre of their backyard, some homeowners have opted for an in-ground pool covered by an automated movable floor system. This surface can be used temporarily, for example, to set up a buffet at a reception or to allow the children to play ball. Simply remove the floor when you want to go swimming.
6— Include a Counterflow Swimming
Are you active? Do you love the water? Do you want to get fit? Make the pool both useful and enjoyable by choosing a model with a built-in aquatic gym. Powerful jets are installed on one of the side walls to create a current you can swim against. It’s an effective way to work out at home that is very popular around the world.
7— Fence It in With Glass, but Without Posts
Putting up a fence around the in-ground pool is essential for everyone’s safety. Glass models are the most popular since they are less visually imposing and don’t obstruct the view. For a contemporary yet affordable look, black steel or stainless steel posts are preferred. But the current fashion is to eliminate the posts altogether.
8— Make It Stunning With a Gas Fireplace (or More Than One!)
Landscape architects bring their ingenuity to bear when creating breathtaking designs. One of their latest innovations is the integration of a gas fireplace that stretches around the in-ground pool. Whether they are built into the floor, in a privacy wall or positioned in the middle of the basin, these fireplaces steal the show.
Which one of these trends would you like to bring into your backyard?