Minimalist concrete, Corten steel waterfalls, limestone beaches—chemical-free natural pools open a new design palette, but they also introduce hydraulic and biological constraints. This checklist distils Origin Aqua’s experience on 150+ projects so architectural teams can integrate mineral pools smoothly.
1. Site Analysis & Orientation
| Factor | Best practice |
|---|---|
| Solar gain | Orient long axis east-west; ≥ 6 h sun improves natural UV. |
| Wind | Use shrub or glass screens to cut > 20 km/h coastal gusts. |
| Groundwater | Avoid zones within 1 m of high water table. |
2. Hydraulics & Plant Room Geometry
- Turnover rate – 3 times per 24 hours so 8 hour cycle for pool volume
- Pipe sizing – 63 mm PVC-C lines (mineral-friendly, low head loss).
- Plant room – Minimum 2 m (L) × 1 m (W) × 1.8 m (H); acoustic lining optional.
Diagram: isometric of skid, pump, UV port (optional), bypass manifold.
3. Structural & Waterproofing Options
| Shell type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Reinforced concrete + tiled | Free-form shapes, infinity edges | Higher CapEx |
| EPS ICF + membrane | Fast install, thermal mass | Linear shapes |
| One-piece composite | Quickest (5-day) | Size limitations |
| Stainless steel | Welded on site, quick, durable, easy to maintain, hygenic, liner free | Higher CapEx |
*Structure only, excl. finishes and filtration.
4. Finishes & Aesthetics
4.1 Interior lining
- Porcelain slabs 120 × 60 cm with epoxy grout (low porosity).
- Quartz aggregate plaster for lagoon look.
4.2 Decking & Coping
- FSC Cumaru or Kebony; set back 5 mm from tile for drainage.
- Hidden drainage slot = clean shadow gap.
- Grass edging since no chlorine damage Natural Pool Design
4.3 Lighting
- Nichless RGBW LEDs, DMX-controlled; mineral clarity enhances colour gradients.
5. Mechanical & Electrical Integration
| Element | Spec | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pump | Variable-speed, 1.1 kW | 48 dB at 1 m |
| Heat pump | COP ≥ 4, R32 gas | Position downwind |
| Control | Smart PLC | Integrates cover + lighting |
6. Sustainability & Certification
- LEED v4 – mineral pools score under Water Efficiency (WE c2) & Low-Emitting Materials.
- BREEAM – gains in HEA 02 (indoor air) due to zero chloramines.
- Local carbon offsets – pumps powered by 3 kW PV array finish net-zero.
7. Planning Elements
| Line item |
|---|
| Design and Technical Drawing |
| Excavation & shell |
| Pipework |
| Filtration skid & pump room |
| Heating & cover |
| Finishes (premium) |
| Biome Activation time |