Natural swimming pools and ponds
Natural swimming pools are certainly a conversation piece in any garden or outside space, but especially if you're lucky enough to have a LEED, Passive House, ZNE or Green Home... Inspired by the joy of swimming in sparkling mountain lakes, can you imagine chlorinated swimming pools being replaced by natural swimming pools & plunge pools throughout the US, Canada and Australia? Here's where you find all our Q & A's for natural swimming pools.
The idea of swimming in a pool that invited nature in rather than shutting it out with chemicals first gained rapid popularity amongst the Green Home fraternity in the 80's, spreading first to Germany and then throughout Europe. Slow at first to take root in North America, natural pools for swimming, wildlife & naturally beautiful gardens are now a possibility & warrant a closer look...
About
Natural swimming pools and ponds
Welcome to the community forum for Natural Swimming Pools and Ponds! This is the ideal place to discuss the beautiful, sustainable alternative to chemical swimming pools. Whether you are dreaming of building a natural pool, are in the middle of a project, or are already enjoying your own backyard oasis, your questions and experiences are welcome here.
Let's create a hub of shared knowledge for homeowners and builders from the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, and around the world. From the initial design and construction to selecting the right plants and maintaining your ecosystem, let's dive into the details of these amazing living water systems.
Thinking of Building a Natural Pool? Ask Your Planning Questions Here!
Are you considering a natural swimming pool for your property and looking for advice on where to start? This is the space to ask your initial questions about costs, the amount of space required, and how to find experienced designers or builders in your area. Get feedback from the community to help you move forward with your project plans. We also have Canada's and the USA's most comprehensive high performance and sustainable prefabricated and modular homes directory available here, searchable by Province or State, as well as the largest online directory of green construction contractors and the best and most experienced Architects that are skilled in designing sustainable homes to LEED and Passive House standards here on EcoHome.
Share Your Natural Swimming Pool and Eco-Pond Projects
Have you already built a natural swimming pool or a recreational pond? We would love to see it! Please share photos of your project, from the construction phase to the finished, planted ecosystem. Your real-world examples, whether they are formal designs or more naturalistic ponds, can provide incredible inspiration and practical insight for others who are planning their own.
Discussing Plant Selection and Long-Term Maintenance
What aquatic plants have you found to be the most effective and beautiful for your natural pool's regeneration zone? Do you have tips for maintaining your pool through the seasons, such as how you manage plant growth or prepare it for winter in a cold climate? Let's discuss the "gardening" aspect of living with a natural pool, from choosing the right species for your climate to keeping the ecosystem balanced and the water clear year after year.