Planning a pool in stages

Press, 16 September 1986, Page 23

Planning a pool in stages

Once a swimming pool is completed, it is too late to move, so prior consideration about its shape, size, and location cannot be stressed too highly.

At the same time, a lot of thought should be given to the surrounding area, including patios, rockeries and landscaping. It is a big mistake to build a pool and then decide what to do with the rest of the garden. It is far better to carefully plan the entire project first and, if finances do not permit its entire completion at once, build it in stages.

It is always a good idea to have a plan and some sketches on paper which show how the intended undertaking will look when it is finished. Care

and consideration can then be given to various levels and sizes of inclusions other than the pool. For example, if excavation work has to be carried out, or large amounts of soil are to be relocated on the site, the logical time to do this is when the pool is being dug.

A plan can also include the selection and location of particular trees or shrubs which, in some cases, can be planted prior to the completion of the final landscaping.

One of the most worthwhile investments is to have a landscape designer draw up a complete plan, together with a perspective drawing of the entire project, so that, if necessary, it can be completed in stages.