Today we dive into a selection of the finest pool photographs — most of which can easily be called masterpieces. Here are 10 of the world's most spectacular, unusual and beautiful pools, each with something to offer every taste.
1. Ubud Hanging Gardens, Bali
The hotel's exotic two-level pool was designed to offer the ultimate relaxation for the body and a feast for the eyes. It follows the natural contours of the surrounding landscape and opens onto an endless expanse of tropical flora.
2. Sala Ayutthaya, Thailand
The beauty of this boutique hotel radiates cleanliness, neatness and refined simplicity. The architects took a minimalist approach as their starting point, yet did not shy away from eclecticism. The design is woven from local traditions and cultural references alongside contemporary details and materials — all of which reminds visitors that they are in a polished interpretation of exotic Thailand.
3. The Pool at Pyne, Bangkok
In search of an unconventional approach to the pool's design, Thai architects from the group T.R.O.P. chose to focus on its canopy structure. Concrete elements divide the space with clean lines, while the subdued glow of lamps on the lower levels of the partitions creates a calming atmosphere for night swimming. The pool, incidentally, is located on the 42nd floor of a residential complex.
"Most pools in Bangkok are called sky pools because they sit on rooftops. They used to look enticing, but after a while they became boring. What's in demand now are original designs"
4. Dana Villas, Santorini
Carved into volcanic rock, this hotel is a haven of calm and serenity, designed in the traditional Cycladic style, with a pool and breathtaking views of the sea.
5. Jellyfish House, Marbella
The 'Jellyfish House' by Wiel Arets Architects is known for its transparent rooftop pool, which commands spectacular views of the Spanish Mediterranean coastline. The pool can be admired from both outside and inside the building, while the glass floor casts an enchanting play of light as you enter the house.
6. Sky Pool, London
Designed by HAL Architects and Arup Associates, the pool — 25 metres long, 5 metres wide, with 20.5 cm-thick glass — will connect two buildings of the Embassy Gardens residential complex, offering swimmers a direct view down to the street 35 metres below. The glass bottom will delight thrill-seekers and become a landmark attraction in its own right. The first phase of construction is already complete, and the project is set to be fully finished in 2017.
7. Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
Yes, this is real. Spanning all three towers at 55 storeys high, an enormous gondola-shaped terrace stretches across the top, complete with pools and landscaped gardens covering a total of 12,400 square metres. The open-air pool has no visible edges, creating the illusion of a sheer drop.
8. La Piscina del Roccolo, Italy
The concept for the project by act_romegialliwas to create a pool as fully integrated into its surroundings as possible. To that end, panoramic windows were installed; these open during the warm months of the year, visually connecting the pool with the landscape. The restrained, understated design and the uniform flow of smooth monochromatic forms make this pool a benchmark of minimalism.
9. Hotel Castell dels Hams, Mallorca
The spa building by A2arquitectos, designed for relaxation and therapeutic treatments, is deliberately positioned to make the most of the surrounding views. Square apertures set into the roof and the walls of the pool allow sunlight to filter inside. Gentle colours, warmth and water combine to create an atmosphere of rest, immersing visitors in a state of complete comfort.
10. Mirage House, Tinos Island
The final project in this survey has yet to be built, yet it more than earns its place on the list. Resembling an enormous mirror laid across the roof of the house, the pool will allow the mansion to blend seamlessly into its surroundings. The central idea behind the project by Kois Associated Architects is to create an 'invisible oasis' where the owners can enjoy panoramic views of the Aegean Sea while remaining entirely out of sight themselves.
'At first the clients were unsettled by the concept of invisibility. We asked ourselves: how do you make a house disappear? The answer — imitate the elements of the landscape'
