Dare to be different

I would say on average 90 % of the pools we service or install are either rectangular or square. Nothing wrong with this, but have you for one moment sat back to reconsider or dared to be different?

Arches were used in most colonial houses and Cape Dutch styles and they do create a stylish effect. With a rectangular pool you need to be very, very creative to allow it to portray a welcoming or novel feeling. Want something more extraordinary?

Bringing an arch into the design can change the look and feel of the pool completely.

For instance, an arched shape can be incorporated in the pool design by creating a solid cement half-moon wall above ground level at one end of the pool, and using a pattern of mosaic tiles to emphasise the rounding of the arch. This then becomes the focal point of the pool. Consider adding spouting fountains or a waterfall flush with this arched area.

Spouting fountains are perhaps a bit passé and you could modernise with a laminar flow water feature (as in the photo). By adding colour, the ambience created will be quite a talking point. But wait, what is laminar flow and how does it work?

Laminar flow occurs when a fluid flows in parallel layers, with no disruption between the layers. At low velocities, the fluid tends to flow without lateral mixing, and adjacent layers slide past one another like playing cards. This creates the illusion of still-standing, solid water when, in fact, it is flowing. Such a water feature is beautiful, super quiet and fascinating because of the even flow, without turbulence. Imagine people frolicking in the pool, trying to dive through the arched bow of the water. The arched water effect seems so solid that one cannot resist running one’s fingers through it.

Should you prefer, design your property to resemble classic Roman architecture and add a tall aqueduct-like arched walkway around your pool. Or, for added inspiration, take a look at photos of the ancient Roman pools at Bath, England.

“Taking to the waters” – an old-fashioned term which means enjoying healthy water – may just become the next best thing in your social circle.

Do come to the LicPool boardroom and work with us to start putting your ideas onto paper. You will be amazed what the end result can look like.

Until next time.

Burgert Terblanche

Tel: 061-232839, Fax: 061-238602
Email: [email protected]