Edge of Eternity: The Aesthetic and Functional Appeal of an Infinity Pool
18 July, 2023Infinity swimming pools, also known as negative edge, zero edge, or vanishing edge pools, are a symbol of sophistication, luxury, and elegance. These pools are designed to create a visual illusion of merging with the surrounding landscape, often the sea or the sky, providing an uninterrupted view of the horizon. As an experienced pool enthusiast, the sight of an infinity pool's edge disappearing into the distance is delightfully disorienting, almost like swimming on the edge of eternity.
The infinity swimming pool isn't a recent invention. Its origins can be traced back to the "Stag Fountain" in the Palace of Versailles in France, built in the 17th century. However, it was in the mid-20th century that the concept was revived, transforming the swimming pool industry and redefining luxury.
Infinity pools are not just about aesthetics. They also serve functional purposes that often go unnoticed. They are a perfect blend of design innovation, architectural brilliance, and engineering precision. The journey from a conventional swimming pool to an infinity pool is a journey from functionality to artistry.
Experience the world of Berndorf Bäderbau's stainless steel infinity pools:
Difference between a Regular Swimming Pool and an Infinity Pool
While a regular swimming pool and an infinity pool serve the same purpose - swimming and relaxation - their designs and aesthetic appeals greatly differ. A regular pool has visible edges and boundaries, while an infinity pool gives the illusion of water extending into the horizon, creating an illusion of infinity. This is achieved through a lowered wall at one edge where water spills into a catch basin and then recirculated back into the pool.
Furthermore, the construction of an infinity pool is more complex. It requires precision, expertise, and advanced engineering techniques, unlike a regular pool. The infinity pool's catch basin, overflow system, and circulation system are all unique, making it a modern engineering masterpiece.
Despite their complexity, infinity pools offer a unique aesthetic appeal that regular pools cannot match. Their ability to blend with the surrounding environment, makes them a preferred choice for luxury resorts and high-end residences.
The Aesthetic Appeal of an Infinity Pool
The visual appeal of an infinity pool is its most striking feature. The design creates an optical illusion where water seems to extend to the horizon, seamlessly merging with the sky or ocean. It's this illusion that makes an infinity pool more than just a swimming pool, it's a piece of landscape art.
An infinity pool is not just about the view it provides but also the ambience it creates. The sight of water flowing over the edge gives an impression of a waterfall, adding to the pool's aesthetic appeal. Whether it's a sunset view over the ocean or a panoramic view of the city skyline, an infinity pool enhances the beauty of the surroundings, making it the centerpiece of any landscape.
Materials used in Infinity Pools: The Role of Stainless Steel
The construction of an infinity pool requires high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity. Stainless steel is one of the most preferred materials for infinity pools due to its strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
Durability and Longevity: Stainless steel is extremely durable and resistant to corrosion and rust. This is a critical property when used in a water-based environment like an infinity pool, where the material will be exposed to both water and chemicals such as chlorine. Stainless steel's high longevity ensures that the infinity edge will last for a long time without requiring regular replacement or maintenance.
Aesthetic Appeal: Stainless steel has a modern and sleek look that can add to the aesthetic appeal of an infinity pool. The reflective properties of stainless steel can also create an appealing visual effect when combined with water.
Heat and Cold Resistance: Stainless steel has excellent resistance to temperature extremes, which makes it suitable for use in pools that might be heated or in areas with extreme weather conditions.
Stainless steel is a sustainable material. It is 100% recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly choice for pool construction. Its long lifespan also means that it doesn't need to be replaced frequently, contributing to its eco-friendly reputation.
Glass:
Transparency: The main advantage of using glass for the vanished edge of an infinity pool is its transparency. This allows for a seamless transition from the pool to the surrounding landscape, enhancing the illusion of an endless water body.
Strength: Contrary to what some might think, glass used in such applications is often tempered or laminated, making it incredibly strong and safe. It can withstand the pressure of large volumes of water and is also resistant to impact.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Glass is relatively easy to clean and maintain. It does not stain easily, and any algae or dirt can be cleaned off with simple cleaning solutions. Additionally, because glass is non-porous, it is resistant to common pool chemicals, ensuring a long lifespan.
When deciding between stainless steel and glass for the vanished edge of an infinity pool, considerations should be made in terms of the pool's design, the surrounding landscape, and maintenance requirements, along with local codes and regulations.
Functional Benefits of Infinity Pools
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, infinity pools offer several functional benefits. The most significant is the inclusion of a catch basin, which collects the water that overflows from the pool's edge. This water is then pumped back into the pool, ensuring a constant circulation of water, which helps in maintaining water cleanliness and reducing chemical usage.
The absence of a visible boundary on one or more sides of the pool gives swimmers an illusion of swimming into the horizon. This, along with the tranquil sound of flowing water, creates a relaxing and serene swimming environment.
Designing an Infinity Pool: Factors to Consider
Designing an infinity pool requires careful consideration of several factors. The most crucial is the view. The pool should be designed to maximize the view, enhancing the illusion of the vanishing edge.
The size and shape of the pool also matter. The pool should be proportionate to the property and blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The shape of the pool can be customized to match the property's architecture and the owner's preferences.
The choice of materials is another crucial factor. While concrete and fiberglass are commonly used, stainless steel offers superior durability, easy maintenance, and stunning aesthetics. Whether it's a traditional rectangular pool or a custom-shaped pool, stainless steel is an excellent choice for infinity pool design.
The Luxury Factor: How an Infinity Pool Enhances Property Value
An infinity pool can significantly increase the value of a property. It's considered a luxury amenity that many potential buyers seek, making a property with an infinity pool more attractive in the real estate market. Thus, an infinity pool is not just an investment in luxury and enjoyment but also an investment in property value.
The worth of a swimming pool can vary substantially based on numerous factors, including:
Pools may provide additional value in warmer regions where they may be utilised all year. The increased benefit may be smaller in cooler areas where they can only be utilised for a few months.
Neighbourhood expectations: If most of the homes in the neighbourhood have pools, not having one may reduce the value of a home. In contrast, if pools are uncommon in the neighbourhood, having one may not greatly raise the value of the house.
Pool type: In-ground pools are more attractive and add more value to a home than above-ground pools.
Pools require frequent care and upkeep, which may be pricey. A pool may be viewed as a burden rather than a benefit by some prospective purchasers.
Buyer preferences: Some purchasers may not want a pool at all owing to safety concerns, particularly those with small children.
Quality and condition: A well-kept pool is more valuable than a neglected one.
The exact cash amount that a pool will bring to the value of a house is difficult to measure because it varies so much. However, a pool may increase the value of a property by 4% to 6% on average. It should be noted, that this is only an average, and the real amount might be substantially greater or lower based on the criteria indicated above.
Maintenance and Cost Considerations for Infinity Pools
While infinity pools offer numerous benefits, they also come with some cost and maintenance considerations. The initial construction cost of an infinity pool is higher than a conventional swimming pool due to its complex design and plumbing system.
However, the long-term maintenance cost of an infinity pool can be lower. The constant circulation of water helps maintain the pool's cleanliness, reducing the need for frequent cleaning and reducing chemical usage. Moreover, choosing durable materials like stainless steel can minimize repair and replacement costs.
It's also important to note that the increased value that an infinity pool adds to your property can offset the initial construction cost. In the long run, an infinity pool can be a cost-effective investment.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the Infinity Pool
The infinity pool, with its aesthetic appeal and functional benefits, has an enduring allure. Whether it's the mesmerizing view of the horizon, the serene swimming experience, or the symbol of luxury, an infinity pool is more than just a swimming pool, it's a piece of art, a lifestyle statement.
The journey from a conventional swimming pool to an infinity pool is a journey from functionality to artistry. The infinity pool is a perfect blend of design innovation and engineering precision. It's a testament to human creativity and the pursuit of luxury.
An infinity pool is a worthwhile investment, regardless of whether you're a homeowner looking to increase your property's value, a hotel owner looking to offer your visitors an exceptional swimming experience, or an architect seeking a trustworthy pool manufacturer. Experience the verge of eternity by entering the realm of infinity pools.
