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—Design decisions

Designing an infinity edge pool

An infinity edge makes water appear to run into the horizon. Behind the effect is precise engineering and extra equipment.

In an infinity, or vanishing, edge pool, one or more walls are built slightly lower than the water level so water flows over them into a catch basin below. From the right viewpoint the edge disappears. The effect suits gardens with a view, raised terraces or slopes, but can look odd where there is nothing beyond the edge.

Design guides set out the choices that are hard to change once the shell is built.

The weir must be perfectly level or water flows unevenly. The catch basin must hold the water displaced by swimmers and the water flowing over the edge, and additional pumping returns it to the pool. This adds construction work, equipment and running cost compared with a standard pool, so the view should justify it.

01Summary

What matters most here

  • A view justifies it

    The effect needs something beyond the edge.

  • Precision matters

    The weir must be perfectly level.

  • More equipment

    Catch basins and extra pumping.

02Detail

How it works

  • The weir

    A lowered wall over which water flows evenly.

  • Catch basin

    Collects overflow and holds water displaced by swimmers.

  • Pumping

    Returns water from the basin to the pool continuously.

  • Water level control

    Automatic top-up keeps levels steady.

  • Finishes

    Tiles on the weir and basin walls are visible and need care.

03Before you start

Before committing

  • Check the viewpoint

    Where the effect will be seen from.

  • Plan the basin

    Where it will sit and how it is accessed.

  • Consider running costs

    Extra pumping and evaporation.

—In practice

How to use this

Stand where the view will be enjoyed and check that the edge lines up with something worth seeing. Discuss the catch basin, balance tank, extra pipework and pump capacity with the designer, and how splashing and wind affect water loss. Ask how the edge will be kept level, since even small errors show as uneven flow.

Mistakes worth avoiding

An edge with no view
An infinity edge facing a boundary wall looks odd. The effect needs a view, a drop or open space beyond it.
Underestimating the equipment
Overflow edges need a balance tank, channels and more circulation. Budget and plant space must allow for all of them.

04FAQ

Common questions about this

Does an infinity edge waste water?
Water is recirculated, but evaporation from the flowing edge can be higher.
Why must the edge be level?
Uneven edges make water flow in some places and not others.
Can an existing pool be converted?
Sometimes, but it involves significant structural work.
Is it noisier?
Water falling into the basin makes a sound; design can soften it.

05Read next

More pool guides on this

Filed under new pool construction. Every pool guide is listed on the pool guides page.

—NEXT

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