Design Philosophy

Swimming pool, spa, and sauna design requires careful planning, adherence to safety standards, and selection of appropriate materials to ensure functionality, durability, and a relaxing user experience. A cohesive design should also consider the overall aesthetic and available space, whether for a private residence or commercial facility. 

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Swimming Pool Design 

 

Structural and technical aspects 

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• Construction type: In-ground pools can be constructed from concrete, which is highly durable and customizable, or with steel or fibreglass tanks using liners, which may be a more cost-effective option.

• Ground conditions: A thorough soil analysis is essential before installation to account for the soil type and water table, which can affect the pool's structure.

• Energy efficiency: Incorporating insulation material within the pool shell for indoor pools can significantly improve heat retention and comply with building regulations.

• Circulation and filtration: For a commercial pool, the system must be sized for the bather load. This includes sizing the volume for the minimum turnover rate and the proper filtration system for sanitation. 

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Safety and user experience 

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• Pool surrounds: The paving or decking around the pool must be non-slip to prevent accidents, even when wet. It should also be a contrasting color to the water to ensure the pool edge is clearly visible.

• Access: Safe access is critical and can include built-in steps, a gradual slope, or ladders.

• Lighting: Underwater lighting is necessary to illuminate the pool water, while general pool hall lighting should be accessible and minimise glare.

• Depth: For multi-use pools, a sloping gradient is useful. For teaching, a depth of 1.0 m to 1.35 m is common, while 1.8 m is advisable for life-saving practice. 

 

Spa and Hot Tub Design 

 

Technical and safety considerations 

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• Water capacity: Commercial spas must be capable of filtering the total water capacity within 15 minutes and often require a minimum of 250 litres per bather seat.

• Electrical safety: Due to the risk of electric shock, spas and hot tubs require a dedicated, hard-wired supply protected by an RCD (residual current device). An isolation switch should be located at least 2 meters from the tub.

• Location: Sufficient space, typically 2–4 feet, is needed around the hot tub for safe access and maintenance. The location should also be at least 3 meters from any overhead power cables.

• Ventilation: For indoor installations, proper ventilation is necessary to manage high moisture levels.

• Foundations: The structure must be placed on a firm, flat surface, such as a concrete base, that can support the significant weight of the tub and water. 

 

Design and experience 

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• Features: Integrated hydromassage jets and benches can enhance the user's therapeutic experience.

• Material: Materials must be durable and water-resistant. Concrete pools can be finished with non-slip tiles.

• Aesthetics: Options include above-ground or sunken installations, and spas can be integrated seamlessly with the pool area. 

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Sauna Design 

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Layout and space planning 

 

• Bench layout: Since heat rises, saunas should be designed with an upper bench where users can fully experience the heat. An optimal layout includes an upper bench 900mm and a lower bench 450mm from the floor, with an optimal ceiling height of 2100 mm.

• Space per person: A general rule is to allow at least 600mm of bench space per person.

• Location: Saunas do not require plumbing and can be placed almost anywhere, though positioning them near a shower for a cool-down rinse is a traditional practice. 

 

Materials and construction 

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• Wood: High-quality, durable woods are essential for the interior. Cedar, aspen, and thermally modified wood are popular choices for their resistance to moisture, heat, and decay.

• Flooring: Hard, non-absorbent, non-slip flooring like tile or sealed concrete is recommended for easy cleaning and hygiene. A floor drain is also advised.

• Insulation: Proper insulation is critical for heat retention and energy efficiency. The ceiling is particularly important to insulate. 

 

Technical and equipment 

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• Heating element: The choice between an electric or wood-burning heater impacts the design and energy source. Electric heaters are more common for home use and require a specific power supply.

• Ventilation: A well-designed ventilation system is crucial for a comfortable and healthy sauna. This includes an air inlet near the heater and an outlet on the opposite wall.

• Lighting: Indirect LED or coloured lighting can create a relaxing atmosphere.

• Heater placement: The heater should be surrounded by a protective casing and placed with safety clearances in mind. 

 

Integrated pool, spa, and sauna facilities 

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• Cohesive design: When combining these features, design and material choices should create a seamless and luxurious experience, such as using complementary tile, wood, and lighting.

• Logical flow: The layout should support the natural wellness circuit of warming up, hydrotherapy, and cooling down, with changing and shower facilities designed for this sequence.

• Holistic wellness: The overall design can incorporate other wellness features like steam rooms, specialized lighting, and architectural elements to create a complete personal or commercial retreat.

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The core philosophy of home leisure design focuses on creating intentional spaces that enhance well-being by balancing aesthetics, functionality, and personal reflection. Beyond just filling a room with entertainment products, modern home leisure design integrates play and relaxation seamlessly into the home's overall design narrative.