Beneath The Surface
Adding submerged features to your pool can be a tough decision to make. Emma Phillips investigates the latest underwater trends that will keep your pool interior sleek, modern and fully functional all year round.
Submerged pool features can add a special element to your pool’s design. Whether you’re installing a permanent fixture or adding removable furniture, these features can greatly enhance visual and functional appeal. For example, submerged lounges placed on your tanning ledge will help you utilise your pool throughout the year, while installing a spa will add an element of comfort and relaxation to your outdoor space. While the sheer number of options can be daunting, there are some easy ways to decide what will best suit your needs. If you like to lounge around your pool and wind down, a tanning ledge would be a perfect addition. Or perhaps you enjoy sipping cocktails with friends while having a dip, in which case a swim-up bar would be ideal. There are many different submerged pool features available that are both highly practical and incredibly stylish; it’s just a matter of selecting the one/s that best suit your lifestyle.
Tanning Ledges
If you enjoy lying on your outdoor lounges while soaking up the sun, then tanning ledges will be a fantastic addition to your pool. Tanning ledges come in a range of sizes and shapes; you just need to choose the one that’s right for you. If you have limited space, a smaller ledge may be a good option. However, if you have children, a larger ledge would be an ideal choice, as it will provide enough space for play while maintaining an air of sophistication and opulence. The shape of your tanning ledge will depend on your pool’s layout and the space you have available. If your pool has curved lines, then try to continue with that theme to promote visual flow throughout your outdoor area. On the other hand, bold edges and squared-off shapes are often the perfect option for pools with a modern and sleek design.
Shade
There is a range of shade solutions available for your pool and outdoor space, and one of the best portable options is an umbrella with a weighted bottom. These hassle-free inventions can be moved around your pool depending on where you’re relaxing and the location of the sun. Alternatively, you can purchase an umbrella with a small bench around its stand. This style gives you the flexibility to place a drink, sunglasses or even a waterproof speaker close to you while you’re enjoying a swim.
Semi-Submerged Furniture
Semi-submerged pool furniture is a great way to make the most of your pool. By adding lounges and chairs to your tanning ledge, you can be in the water more frequently while still relaxing in the sun and cooling breeze. Not only will these aquatic furnishings optimise the space you have, but they’ll also keep you relatively dry when
you’re entertaining and don’t want to walk around drenched! Full lounge settings can also be placed on tanning ledges – just ensure you check how deep furniture is able to be submerged. Freestanding lounge settings can be conveniently moved to your alfresco dining area or deck when required.
Sunken Pool Lounges
A sunken pool lounge is a socialite’s favourite addition. If you love to entertain but don’t want to be in the pool 24/7, then this is the ideal
submerged feature for you. Sunken pool lounges can be placed anywhere in your pool area and will offer you the comfort of enjoying your pool without getting wet. Sunken lounges with stepping-stone access can be installed in your pool, or you can position one against the side of your pool and add entry steps. Some pool owners choose to include tables in the centre of the lounge, while others opt for a fire pit.
Swim-Up Bar
When you’re swimming with family and friends, the last thing you want to do is get out of the pool and leave the party just to refill your drink. Installing a swim-up bar is a great way to entertain for as long as you wish without needing to leave the water. When designing your swim-up bar, you’ll have to choose between a wide range of options for benchtops and seating, as well as its overall shape. Your benchtop can run flush along the edge of your pool, or it can extend into the pool itself for a breakfast-bar style of seating.
The bar’s sunken area can even be used for cooking by adding a barbecue or kitchenette! Swim-up bars also provide a great way to include more seating in your pool area. Permanent builtin seating can be done in a variety of ways, from block style, squared-off seating, to the more traditional circular seat, or even a convenient and stylish bench seat. Just remember to always drink responsibly, especially around the pool. A refreshing and hydrating mocktail is highly recommended!
Submerged Spas
Spas are the epitome of relaxation. Turn the jetpumped bubbles on, sit back and enjoy. If you’re after a small area in your pool to sit around and enjoy some company, then an integrated spa is the perfect choice for you. It can act as an oasis in your pool area, with a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. The size of your spa will depend entirely on your needs. If you’re an entertainer, you may want to opt for a larger spa with ample seating. If you prefer swimming and want to use the spa for winding down after a workout, a smaller spa will do just the trick! Whether you’re building a new pool from scratch or renovating your existing one, taking the time to include some practical and stylish submerged features will make an immense difference to the end result, and drastically increase the amount of enjoyment you get from your pool in the long term. With a thoughtfully designed interior, your pool will have so much more to offer family and friends than its surface-level beauty for many years to come!