An infinity pool is a type of swimming pool that creates a stunning optical illusion of water extending to the horizon, blending with the sky or the surrounding landscape. The effect is achieved by having one or more edges of the pool lower than the water level, allowing the water to spill over into a catch basin below. The water is then pumped back into the pool, creating a continuous cycle of flow.
Infinity pools are often found in luxurious hotels, resorts, and estates, where they offer breathtaking views and a sense of serenity. They are also expensive and complex to build and maintain, requiring careful structural, mechanical, and architectural design.
History of Infinity Pools
The concept of infinity pools may have originated in France, where one of the first vanishing-edge designs was the Stag Fountain at the Palace of Versailles, built in the late 17th century
In the US, architect John Lautner is credited as one of the first to come up with an infinity pool design in the early 1960s. He included infinity pools in various residential projects, and also created the vanishing-edge pool in the 1971 James Bond movie Diamonds Are Forever.
Examples of Infinity Pools
There are many stunning infinity pools around the world, each offering a unique experience and perspective. Here are some examples:
- The Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Infinity Pool in Singapore: This is the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool, spanning 150 meters across the top of three skyscrapers. It offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the bay
- The Infinity Pool at Kerry Hotel Hong Kong: This is Hong Kong’s largest outdoor infinity pool, located on the 7th floor of the hotel. It overlooks the Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong Island skyline
- Rainforest Infinity Pool at Alila Ubud, Bali: This is a secluded infinity pool surrounded by lush greenery and tropical plants. It overlooks the Ayung River valley and offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Bali
Benefits of Infinity Pools
Infinity pools are not only aesthetically pleasing but also have some benefits for the users. Some of them are:
- They create a relaxing and soothing atmosphere, as the sound of water flowing over the edge can have a calming effect on the mind and body.
- They can enhance the sense of space and openness, as they eliminate visual boundaries and create an illusion of infinity.
- They can improve the water quality, as they constantly circulate and filter the water, preventing stagnation and algae growth.
What are the disadvantages of infinity pools?
Some of the disadvantages of infinity pools are:
- Cost: Infinity pools are extremely costly. They require the pool itself and a smaller catch basin pool to filter water and keep it clean They also need more structural and mechanical engineering than traditional pools2
- Maintenance: Infinity pools require more maintenance than traditional pools. They need more frequent cleaning and filtering, as well as regular checks on the pumps and pipes that circulate the water
- Safety: Infinity pools can be a safety hazard, especially for young children and pets. They have exposed edges that can cause falls and injuries. They also need to be fenced or guarded to prevent unauthorized access
- Not always the best option: In certain situations, an infinity pool is actually a bad idea. If your backyard doesn’t have a beautiful landscape, the infinity pool won’t look so spectacular If you live in a cold or windy climate, the infinity pool can lose a lot of heat and water due to evaporation
What is the difference between an infinity pool and a regular pool?
The main difference between an infinity pool and a regular pool is that an infinity pool has one or more edges that are below the water level, creating a visual effect of water with no boundary. A regular pool has all sides above the water level, with visible skimmers and coping stones or metal caps.
Some other differences are:
- Cost: An infinity pool is more expensive to build and maintain than a regular pool, as it requires more structural and mechanical engineering, as well as more finishing materials
- Maintenance: An infinity pool has fewer or no skimmers, as the water flows over the edge into a catch basin that acts as a large skimmer. The water is then pumped back into the pool, creating a continuous cycle of flow. This means that an infinity pool needs more frequent cleaning and filtering, as well as regular checks on the pumps and pipes
- Safety: An infinity pool can be a safety hazard, especially for young children and pets, as they have exposed edges that can cause falls and injuries. They also need to be fenced or guarded to prevent unauthorized access
- Aesthetics: An infinity pool can create a stunning optical illusion of water extending to the horizon, blending with the sky or the surrounding landscape. This can enhance the sense of space and openness, as well as the beauty of the pool. A regular pool can look more conventional and boring, depending on the location and design
How deep are infinity pools?
Infinity pools are a type of swimming pool that creates the illusion of water extending to the horizon by having one or more edges that are slightly lower than the water level. The water flows over these edges and into a hidden catch basin, where it is recirculated back into the pool. Infinity pools are often built in locations that offer a stunning view, such as the ocean, the mountains, or the city skyline.
The depth of an infinity pool can vary depending on the design and the purpose of the pool. However, according to some sources, an infinity pool should ideally have a depth of 1.2 to 1.6 meters. A greater depth would not allow the user to enjoy the view. The maximum depth of an infinity pool is 1.7 meters.
Some infinity pools may have different depths for different sections, such as a shallow end and a deep end, or a diving area and a lounging area. For example, The Infinity™ by Leisure Pools USA is a rectangular diving pool that has a depth of 3 to 8 feet. This allows for both recreational and athletic use of the pool.
Infinity pools are safe when they are designed and built by qualified professionals who follow the proper safety standards and regulations. They have features such as drains, valves, and pumps that prevent water from overflowing or leaking into the surrounding soil. They also have barriers or fences that prevent people from falling over the edge or accessing the catch basin.
Infinity pools are a beautiful and luxurious addition to any home or resort. They offer a unique swimming experience and a breathtaking view that can make you feel like you are one with nature. However, they also require more maintenance and cost than regular pools, so be sure to weigh the pros and cons before deciding to install one.
What is the cost of building an infinity pool?
The cost of building an infinity pool depends on several factors, such as the size, shape, material, location, and design of the pool. However, according to some sources, the average cost of an infinity pool is $80,000 or $80 per square foot. The lowest cost of an infinity pool can be around $55,000, while the highest cost can be over $130,000.
Some of the factors that can affect the cost of an infinity pool are:
- Size: Larger pools require more materials, labor, excavation, and filtration, which increases the cost. The size of the pool also determines the length of the edge that creates the infinity effect.
- Material: Infinity pools often use premium materials such as tiles, fiberglass, or concrete, which can vary in price and durability. Tiles can offer more customization and aesthetics, but may also require more maintenance. Fiberglass pools can be cheaper and easier to install but may have fewer design options. Concrete pools can be more versatile and durable, but may also be more expensive and time-consuming to build.
- Location: The location of the pool can affect the cost of engineering, permits, site preparation, and transportation. Infinity pools are usually built on slopes or hillsides that offer a scenic view, but these sites may also pose challenges such as soil stability, drainage, and accessibility.
- Design: The design of the pool can include features such as waterfalls, bubblers, lighting, heating, or automation, which can add to the cost. The design of the pool also affects the complexity and efficiency of the circulation and filtration system that recycles the water from the catch basin.
Infinity pools are a luxurious and beautiful addition to any home or resort. They offer a unique swimming experience and a breathtaking view that can make you feel like you are one with nature. However, they also require more maintenance and cost than regular pools, so be sure to weigh the pros and cons before deciding to install one.