The ultimate guide to swimming pond design, construction, and maintenance

Understanding the swimming pond: the basics

How does a swimming pond differ from traditional pools?

Unlike traditional pools, a swimming pond utilizes a natural approach to water purification. Instead of relying heavily on chemicals, this type of pond harnesses the power of plants, mechanical filters, phosphates, and biological processes to maintain clean and clear water. This eco-friendly approach not only reduces chemical usage but also lowers energy consumption, making a swimming pond a sustainable choice.

The key components of a swimming pond

At the heart of the swimming pond is the creation of an environment that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. In order to do so, several essential components work together, creating synergies:

• The regeneration zone, also known as the planted area, is responsible for water purification. This zone is filled with carefully selected aquatic plants that absorb nutrients and filter the water naturally.
• The swimming zone is the area designated for swimming and recreational activities.
• Mechanical filtration systems, skimmers, and pumps are also integral parts of a swimming pond, ensuring proper water circulation and debris removal.

Why choose a swimming pond? The key advantages of this model

The aesthetic appeal of a swimming pond is undeniable as it seamlessly blends with the surrounding landscape it also provides a serene and inviting atmosphere.

But the benefits of swimming ponds go beyond aesthetics. One of the primary advantages of a swimming pond is its reduced maintenance costs compared to traditional pools. The natural water purification process minimizes the need for expensive chemicals and frequent water replacements.

Additionally, a swimming pond is eco-friendly and sustainable, as it promotes biodiversity and creates a natural habitat for various plants, and even fish in the more naturalistic models.

This represents a key occasion for operators that pick the swimming pond as their preferred option. The global hydrotherapy and aquatic therapy’s market value is projected to reach $10 billion USD by 2028 growing at a CAGR of about 5.5% according to Verified Market Reports.

Offering an unmediated connection to nature and the sensory stimulation of natural textures, all in a chemical-free environment, the swimming pond stands out in the aquatic therapy segment, providing an opportunity of differentiation that is key in a growing market.

Key considerations when designing a swimming pond

1. Site selection

Adequate space is required to accommodate both the regeneration zone and the swimming zone. The site should receive sufficient sun exposure to promote plant growth while also providing some shade for swimmers’ comfort. Additionally, soil type and drainage are important factors to consider, as they impact the pond’s stability and water retention capabilities.

2. Choosing the right size and shape

The size of a swimming pond should be determined based on its intended use and the anticipated number of swimmers. A larger pond may be necessary for public facilities like hotels or resorts, while a smaller pond may suffice for private residences. The shape of the pond should complement the surrounding landscape and architectural features. Organic shapes can create a more natural and visually appealing look.

3. The landscaping elements

The regeneration zone should be planted with a variety of aquatic plants that not only aid in water purification but also contribute to the pond’s aesthetic appeal. Additional landscaping elements, such as waterfalls, streams, or rock features, can enhance the pond’s visual interest and provide a soothing ambiance. In fact, fountains and waterfalls help to maintain clear water, as it avoids stagnant areas.

4. Regulatory considerations

A swimming pond must adhere to health and safety requirements according to its local regulations, which may vary depending on each country. Among these, proper water quality and circulation standards are essential to maintain a safe swimming environment. Regular water testing and monitoring help to ensure that the pond meets health standards.

What does the construction process look like?

1. Excavation and pond lining

Proper excavation techniques ensure the pond’s stability and prevent future issues. Once the desired depth and shape are achieved, a pond liner is installed to contain the water. Common liner materials include EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride), both of which are durable and long-lasting.

2. Installation of mechanical systems

Mechanical systems are essential for maintaining water quality and circulation in a swimming pond:

• Filtration systems remove debris and excess nutrients from the water. Here, it’s key to pick filtration systems designed specifically for ponds and natural pools. The most common ones include mechanical filters and phosphate dosing. Some even include UVC and/or low-salt hydrolysis to destroy unwanted bacteria suspended in the water, taking the water clarity of swimming ponds to the next level.
• Skimmers and pumps help to circulate the water and prevent stagnation
• Proper plumbing and electrical work ensure that these systems function efficiently

3. Planting the regeneration zone

Once the pond lining and mechanical systems are in place, the regeneration zone can be planted, with the following basic steps:

• Preparing the substrate, adding a layer of gravel or sand to provide a suitable growing medium for the aquatic plants
• Selecting the right plants for effective water purification, including cattails, rushes, and water lilies, with natural filtration capabilities.
• Ensuring proper plant density to maintain optimal water quality and clarity.

What are the maintenance and upkeep requisites for a swimming pond?

First of all, regular maintenance must be considered, which comes down to the following processes:

• Monitoring water quality to detect any imbalances or potential issues
• Removing debris, such as fallen leaves or excess plant growth, and thus preventing the accumulation of organic matter that can lead to nutrient imbalances
• Cleaning skimmers and filters regularly to ensure proper functioning

Despite regular maintenance, a swimming pond may encounter occasional issues. The most common one is algae growth, which can be produced due to excessive nutrients or insufficient filtration. Although this is a normal phenomenon in swimming ponds, those seeking a more crystalline or pool-like experience need to balance the water chemistry (particularly the levels of phosphates and nitrogen) to prevent algae blooms.

The swimming pond: water wellness that makes a difference

Providing an eco-friendly and sustainable connection to nature, the swimming pond offers an opportunity for wellness centers, hotels and private properties to differentiate their facilities by creating a serene natural environment.

To ensure the longevity of a swimming pond, proper design, construction, and maintenance are paramount. These include advanced filtration systems (such as biological filtration) and the integration of smart technology (including automated monitoring systems and remote control), which streamlines pond management and maintenance.

Alliance with professionals in water-based facilities allows operators to access the benefits of advanced pond design and ensure the success of their facilities. This is where Fluidra comes in. As a leading company in the global pool & wellness industry, we offer state-of-the-art technology and water engineering for natural pool and pond projects, including chemical-free processes that align with natural swimming pond requirements.