Ever felt like a swim but didn’t have the energy to head to the beach or your club? Given the hectic lives we live, I can vouch that is the case more than I would like to admit. Yet, whenever feet touch water, calm takes over, draining out the stress and noise of modern living. No wonder then, private pools are not only the ideal climatic response to the desert sun but they have become the very definition of 5-star homes.
THE INFINITY POOL
No longer are pools just about a zero edge against a sea or a lake, the new infinity pools have larger surroundings and are perched atop buildings. Thanks to the latest construction and structural technologies, you can extend it over the edge of a cliff to enjoy panoramic views. Ideal for a desert villa or a farm outside cities.
THE INDOOR POOL
Ideal for the long stretched summer months and those who want privacy, an indoor pool protects your skin from sun damage and acts as a focal design feature. You can have it designed like a water court in your house. Try to integrate it into your living space — it will help extend the rooms visually and create a larger, multifunctional entertainment area.
THE LAP POOL
A lap pool fits perfectly into homes with no children and limited square footage. Aesthetically the linear shape of a lap pool can help enhance the modern minimalist architectural forms. It is also ideal for fitness fanatics, providing just enough space for swimming laps or to simply cool down after a hectic Dubai summer day. You can either have it by the side of your built-up, or get it constructed on your rooftop to enjoy the views as you soak.
REFLECTION POOL
Best demonstrated in their projects at Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi, architects such as Tado Ando and Jean Nouvel created magic by reflecting the surrounding landscape, architecture, sky and clouds in a body of still water (reflective pools). In addition to a visual impact thanks to the mirror like quality of water, by absorbing heat around the built environment, a reflection pool also adds a soothing quality to life.
GLASS LINED POOLS
Make a bold aesthetic and technological statement by appointing glass as the floor or a side wall of your pool. Not only do they make for a unique swimming experience, when set in sites with stunning views to enjoy, glass lined pools are also great observation spaces. Given the nature of structural works involved, its best to invest in renowned structural and pool architects to ensure water mass and future clean-outs are well accounted for in the design stage.
THE DISAPPEARING POOL
This is one pool no image can ever do justice to; you have to experience it. Imagine the beautifully designed floor in your courtyard, or even the gym, sinking into the ground beneath at the press of a button and water gushing in to fill the depression. From disappearing steps to lights and fountains to lap pools, modern technology and heavy-duty lift installations enable lifting floors to create tailored systems to cater to every pool fantasy. Even better, press the button again and have a party on top of your pool!
Pratyush Sarup edits design blog designcarrot.co
