Pierfrancesco Fagiani
Pool Specialist Consulting

How big should a swimming pool be?

How big should a swimming pool be? Is there a relationship between the measures chosen for your pool and the famous 'WOW effect'?

This is certainly the case, but it must be assessed on the basis of the context.

In the field of aesthetics and the study of beauty, much emphasis is rightly given to the concept of proportions. Of course, the idea of ​​large or small is very relative and the first relationship to consider is obviously the space where the pool will be built.

I happened to see a 13 x 5 pool built in a large garden that almost looked like a "puddle", since there was no other element that could act as a visual boundary of the space. Alternatively, I happened to see a 10 x 5 pool built in a small garden that looked huge, much bigger than it actually was. Therefore we say that there are some precautions and general rules to follow, logically taking into account personal needs as well.

 

CRITERIA FOR DETERMINING THE RIGHT SIZE OF THE POOL

 

  1. Even if this is commonly done, it would be better not to choose a pool where the long side is twice the short side (e.g. 10 x 5, 12 x 6, 14 x 7). These were very popular measures in the 90s and 2000s as they were often standard measures. However, the final effect of pools with these measures is not very nice as the pool is a little too “chubby” and not very slender. Following the trend of modern design it is much better to play with dimensions that streamline the pool and therefore prefer 'staggered' dimensions (for example 10 x 4, 12 x 5, 15 x 6, etc.)
     
  2. Determine the right size according to the general measures of the garden (there must be harmony in the proportions) as well as according to the budget logically. In the case of a very large garden it is essential to also take care of the design of the green so that there are boundaries of the surrounding space and the pool does not "get lost" in the middle of a too large surface.
     
  3. The size of the pool must also take into consideration any space intended for the wellness and / or relaxation area. In this case it is advisable to understand well how to arrange these areas in relation to other elements: steps, beaches, hydromassage vents, any beds to be placed in the water, etc.
     
  4. If you are a fan of swimming and want to have enough space to practice this sport, the length should not be less than 15/16 meters. In this case, for entry into the water, you could opt for corner solutions or a lateral staircase on the short side, so that there is enough space to swim for the entire length of the pool without it being disturbed and shortened by the presence. of the steps.
     
  5. In the smallest spaces, even a small swimming pool, 6/8 meters long, can be more than enough and able to give the famous final "wow effect". Also in this case it is however important to carefully evaluate the proportions between the long side and the short side.
     
  6. In large gardens it is good to aim for a 17/20 meter long swimming pool where you can design various distinct areas used for specific purposes: beach for relax, hydromassage area, diving area, etc.
     
  7. The short side, especially in the presence of children or if you think that the pool will also be used for playing (water polo or other) should have a minimum width of 4 / 4.5 meters. This way you will have enough space to wriggle in the water without being too sacrificed.
     
  8. Think of the pool also with a view to any covers, to be installed immediately or in the future. In fact, these may require additional space depending on the type chosen.
     

The size of the pool is important for the final success of the project. The choice must be carefully evaluated taking into account all these factors.

Rely on professionals who know their stuff and who can guide you in your choice wisely.