Indoor Pool in House: A Comprehensive Guide to Planning and Building

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A vibrant water splash captured in an indoor swimming pool setting at night.
Credit: pexels.com, A vibrant water splash captured in an indoor swimming pool setting at night.

Planning an indoor pool in your house can be a complex process, but with the right approach, it can be a rewarding experience that adds value to your home and provides endless entertainment for your family and friends.

A key consideration is the space needed for the pool, which can range from 300 to 1,000 square feet, depending on the design and features you want. This space must be carefully integrated into your home's layout to ensure a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor areas.

The pool's location is also crucial, as it should be situated near a natural light source, such as a skylight or large windows, to minimize the need for artificial lighting. This can help reduce energy costs and create a more inviting atmosphere.

Ultimately, a well-planned indoor pool can become the heart of your home, providing a space for relaxation, recreation, and socializing.

Design Considerations

When designing an indoor pool, consider its shape and size. A slim and long design can be a great space-saver, especially in smaller homes.

Credit: youtube.com, Indoor Swimming Pools 101: Cost, Construction, Advantages and More!

The pool's location within the house is also crucial. For example, a pool with a view of the woods can be a lovely feature, but it may not be suitable for every home.

When choosing an indoor pool design, think about how it will fit into your existing decor. A converted barn design can be a unique and rustic touch, while a pool with wall art can add a pop of color and personality to the space.

Here are some design considerations to keep in mind:

  • Consider a slim and long design for a space-saving option.
  • Think about the pool's location and how it will interact with the surrounding space.
  • Choose a design that fits with your existing decor, such as a converted barn or a pool with wall art.

10 Home Design Guidelines

A well-designed indoor pool can be a stunning focal point in any home. The Roman-style indoor pool features laminar jets, blue glass mosaic interior with gold inlays, LED color-changing lighting, a marble deck, and a rim-flow edge.

To create a unique interior space, consider the overall style and architecture of the home. This indoor pool design incorporates the classic symmetry and elegant Greek key mosaic tile perfectly complementing the formal beauty of the home's French Manor-style interiors.

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Back View of a Female Swimmer Standing by an Indoor Swimming Pool
Credit: pexels.com, Back View of a Female Swimmer Standing by an Indoor Swimming Pool

Here are 10 home design guidelines to keep in mind:

  • Slim and long design can make a pool look more spacious.
  • A pool with a dramatic skylight, like the glass pyramid above the Roman-style indoor pool, can add visual interest.
  • A converted barn design can add rustic charm to an indoor pool.
  • Adding wall art, like the blue glass mosaic interior with gold inlays, can make a pool look luxurious.
  • An angular aquarium design can create a sleek and modern look.
  • A transition design can help blend the pool with the surrounding architecture.
  • Light-filled indoor pools can create a sense of openness and airiness.
  • A painted ceiling mural, like the dreamy skyscape, can transport you to another world.
  • A pool with a view of the woods can bring the outdoors in.
  • An indoor pool and patio can create a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors.

By incorporating these design guidelines, you can create an indoor pool that is both functional and beautiful.

Slim and Long Design

You don't need a huge basement or empty floor to have an indoor pool. Opt for a slim and long design that fits your small floor plan, keeping things simple.

A slim and long design is perfect for small spaces because it doesn't require a lot of floor area.

You can fit a slim and long pool from wall to window, making the most of your space.

If you prefer a grand and lavish pool, there are other design options available, but a slim and long design is a great starting point.

Swimming Photos

Consider using a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water's surface, as seen in the example of the Olympic-sized pool.

The angle of the sun can greatly impact the quality of your photos, so plan your shoot accordingly.

Back View of a Female Swimmer Warming up by an Indoor Swimming Pool
Credit: pexels.com, Back View of a Female Swimmer Warming up by an Indoor Swimming Pool

Avoid direct sunlight, which can create harsh shadows and overexposure, as demonstrated in the example of the pool with a large window.

Using a wide-angle lens can help capture the entire pool area, including the surrounding architecture, as shown in the example of the pool with a large deck.

The rule of thirds can be applied to swimming photos by placing the subject off-center, such as the diver in the example photo.

A slower shutter speed can create a sense of motion and blur in the water, as seen in the example of the swimmer in action.

Pool Features

A pool in your house sounds like a dream come true! Having a pool in your home can be a fantastic way to enjoy the water year-round, without having to worry about the weather.

A well-designed pool can be a stunning focal point in your home, and with the right features, it can also be a fun and relaxing space for the whole family. Some pools come equipped with LED lights that can change colors, creating a unique ambiance.

Two women in swimsuits sitting by an indoor pool with water slides.
Credit: pexels.com, Two women in swimsuits sitting by an indoor pool with water slides.

The size of your pool will depend on the space available in your home, but a standard pool size is around 12 feet by 24 feet. This size is perfect for a small to medium-sized family.

Having a pool in your home can also be a great way to stay active and healthy, especially during the winter months when outdoor activities are limited. Regular swimming can help improve cardiovascular health and boost mood.

Some pools come with a built-in hot tub, allowing you to relax and unwind after a long day. This feature is perfect for those who want to enjoy a spa-like experience in the comfort of their own home.

The type of pool you choose will also depend on your budget and personal preferences. Fiberglass pools are a popular choice due to their durability and low maintenance costs.

A pool in your home can also increase the value of your property, making it a great investment for homeowners. According to industry experts, a well-designed pool can add up to 15% to the value of your home.

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Lighting and Ventilation

Credit: youtube.com, The Indoor-Outdoor Pool | Swimmingpools by allthegoodies.com

Lighting a pool room is a great way to create ambiance and make a statement. You can build recessed lighting directly into your pool for a particularly statement-making look.

Recessed lighting options don't stop at your ceiling, you can line the edges of your pool with cove lighting or experiment with a combination of the two. This detail will be both useful and head-turning, especially if your pool lining is dark.

To keep your indoor pool room cool in the summer, it's essential to have skylights or high windows that open to let hot air escape. Ruddy recommends placing vents in both the floor and the ceiling near each pane to maintain airflow and prevent windows from fogging up.

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Ventilation

Ventilation is crucial to enjoy your indoor pool without any discomfort. It helps to prevent windows from fogging up.

To maintain airflow, it's essential to have vents in both the floor and the ceiling near each pane of windows. This ensures a clear view and prevents fogging.

Young Woman in Fairy Outfit in Indoor Pool
Credit: pexels.com, Young Woman in Fairy Outfit in Indoor Pool

Excessive heat in the summer can be a problem if not addressed. It's recommended to have skylights or high windows that open to let hot air escape.

In fact, an open roof system and lots of sliding glass doors can help treat your indoor pool like an outdoor pool in the summer.

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Lighting

Lighting can make or break the ambiance of your indoor pool. A combination of underwater lighting and wall sconces typically provides sufficient and attractive illumination.

For a sleek look, you can build recessed lighting directly into your pool. This will be both useful and head-turning, especially if your pool lining is dark.

Avoid overhead lights, as the bulbs are too difficult to access when they need changing. Fiber-optic cable fixtures are a great alternative, using remote illuminators that are easily accessible.

A subtle lighting scheme is key to creating the right ambiance. If it's too bright, it could draw unwanted attention through the windows.

For another approach, see: Indoor Pool Lighting

Cozy Details and Decor

A spacious and modern living room with fireplace, pool view, and elegant decor.
Credit: pexels.com, A spacious and modern living room with fireplace, pool view, and elegant decor.

You can enhance the elegance of your indoor pool room by designing wide wall art that can withstand splashing and high-moisture environments, freeing up floor space for seating or a more expansive indoor pool plan.

Invest in cozy finishing touches like plush towels, luxurious robes, and a heated towel rack to bring your pool house together. These little details will make a big difference in creating a relaxing atmosphere.

A poolside fireplace is a game-changer for creating a next-level luxurious space. It's a cozy combination that will make you feel like you're in a spa, and with some thoughtful stonework, you can seamlessly connect your pool and fireplace areas.

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Create a Dining Nook

Creating a dining nook around your indoor pool can be a great way to make the most of your space. You can tuck a dining nook into the corner of your pool room.

A dining nook can be a cozy and intimate space for enjoying a meal or a glass of wine. You can outfit your pool room with a sprawling bar or a dining nook, giving you more options for how to use your space.

Credit: youtube.com, Corner Dining Nook

A pool room with a dining nook can be a great way to make your space feel more special and versatile. By using your space for more than just swimming, you can create a relaxing and rejuvenating atmosphere.

You can choose a dining nook that fits your style and preferences, whether it's a sleek and modern design or a cozy and traditional one.

4. Decor

Designing your indoor pool setting with wide wall art can make a big impact on the space. This type of art can endure splashing and high-moisture environments, making it a practical choice.

Adding statement-making decor to your walls will enhance the elegance of your indoor pool room. It's a great way to make a statement without cluttering the space.

Consider investing in plush towels and cozy accents to bring your pool house together. These little details can make a big difference in the overall feel of the space.

A fireplace paired with your indoor pool is the ultimate cozy combination. With some thoughtful planning, you can create a seamless transition between the two.

Construction and Cost

Credit: youtube.com, AWESOME! 100+ MODERN INDOOR POOL DESIGN IDEAS | PROS CONS HAVING INDOOR SWIMMING POOLS IN YOUR HOUSE

Planning for an indoor pool is best done during the design and construction of a new house, but it's also possible to add one to an existing home with the right architectural help. With experience designing indoor pool rooms, an architect can guide you through the process.

A complete HVAC system is essential for an indoor pool, and that requires someone with expertise to set it up. Kevin Ruddy, owner of Omega Pool Structures, Inc., emphasizes the importance of hiring an architect with experience in indoor pool design.

The construction of an indoor pool is similar to an outdoor pool, except for one major difference: the indoor pool deck slopes toward the pool to keep water away from walls. This is because an indoor pool doesn't have to deal with freezing and thawing cycles like an outdoor pool does.

Builders can use a wider variety of materials for an indoor pool, such as glass and ceramic waterline tiles smaller than 6 x 6 inches, due to the absence of freezing and thawing cycles. James Atlas, principal of Platinum Poolcare, Ltd., notes this difference in material selection.

The cost of an indoor pool, including the pool and structure, can start at $165,000 to $200,000, according to James Atlas.

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Cost and Construction

Credit: youtube.com, Construction Estimating and Budgeting Basics

Planning an indoor pool can be a complex process, and it's essential to work with an experienced architect to ensure it's done right.

The best time to plan for an indoor pool is during the design and construction of a new house. This allows for seamless integration of the pool into the overall design.

A complete HVAC system is crucial for an indoor pool, and it's recommended to work with an architect who has experience designing indoor pool rooms.

Indoor pool construction is similar to outdoor pool construction, but with one major exception: the pool deck slopes towards the pool to keep water away from walls.

Builders can use a wider variety of materials for an indoor pool, such as glass and ceramic waterline tiles smaller than 6 x 6 inches, due to the absence of freezing and thawing cycles.

The cost of an indoor pool can be substantial, with estimates starting at $165,000 to $200,000, including the cost of the pool and structure.

In some cases, the cost of air quality equipment can be as much as the cost of the pool itself, highlighting the importance of proper ventilation and heating systems.

The Planning Process

Capture of a splash in an indoor swimming pool with water droplets in motion.
Credit: pexels.com, Capture of a splash in an indoor swimming pool with water droplets in motion.

To get the best possible result, it's essential to open the lines of communication with your architect and pool builder early on. They'll need to interview you to understand how you'll use the pool and how it will impact your lifestyle.

The ideal time to build an indoor pool is during new construction or when renovating a current structure. This allows your construction team to work with experts, including a licensed architect, to ensure the room and pool are built to code and all permits are in order.

Soil conditions and drainage play a significant role in the footings and substructure of the pool. A skilled building team can handle setbacks, easements, rights-of-way, scale, proportion, and balance.

Designing an indoor pool room requires it to blend in with the home's architecture and personality. This means considering how the space will look and feel in relation to the rest of the house.

To manage humidity and related issues, an experienced pool builder must consider the water and evaporation that will occur. They'll work to prevent problems before they arise.

Inspiration and Style

Credit: youtube.com, Luxury Homes With Indoor Pools Ideas to Transform Your Space

Indoor pools are a luxury, and designing them requires careful consideration of style and functionality. A skilled interior decorator is essential to harmonize the pool's environment with the home's overall décor.

Natural lighting is best for an indoor pool, but artificial lighting can create a unique ambiance when the sun goes down. Wall sconces combined with in-pool lighting can create a warm glow that transforms the room from daytime to nighttime.

To create a welcoming atmosphere, lighting should be restrained. Most designers recommend avoiding overhead lighting due to the difficulty of changing bulbs or repairing fixtures.

11 Inspiring Designs

Indoor pools offer a unique opportunity to create a luxurious and functional space that's perfect for year-round enjoyment. They can be a central hub for entertainment, exercise, or simply relaxation.

The Roman-style indoor pool design is a great example of how to incorporate elegance and sophistication. Its features include laminar jets, blue glass mosaic interior with gold inlays, LED color-changing lighting, a marble deck, and a rim-flow edge.

People Exercising on Floating Boards in an Indoor Swimming Pool
Credit: pexels.com, People Exercising on Floating Boards in an Indoor Swimming Pool

A well-designed indoor pool can also be a great way to bring the outdoors in. Take, for example, the indoor spa that features large pocket doors that open to allow in fresh air and sunlight when desired.

To create a harmonious setting, consider blending the utilitarian and artistic elements, as seen in the indoor lap pool and attached spa design. The blue granite overflow grating and dark tile mural work together to achieve a sense of balance.

Incorporating the overall style and architecture of the home is also essential. The indoor pool design that features a classic symmetry and elegant Greek key mosaic tile perfectly complements the formal beauty of the home's French Manor-style interiors.

Here are some key design elements to consider when creating an inspiring indoor pool space:

Whether you're looking to create a space for relaxation, exercise, or entertainment, an indoor pool design can be a great way to achieve your goals. By incorporating elements such as laminar jets, glass mosaic interior, and LED color-changing lighting, you can create a truly inspiring and luxurious space.

Defining Your Style

A tranquil indoor swimming pool with life rings and windows in Fiumicino, Italy.
Credit: pexels.com, A tranquil indoor swimming pool with life rings and windows in Fiumicino, Italy.

Defining your style for an indoor pool is all about harmony with your home's décor.

A skilled interior decorator is essential for creating a cohesive look. Unlike an outdoor pool, the indoor environment needs to reflect your home and personal style.

Furniture, amenities, and artwork should all be chosen with care to achieve this harmony.

Using the outdoor venue as a backdrop is a great way to bring nature indoors. Walls of windows, a ceiling of skylights, and sliding glass doors can create an open feeling.

Artificial lighting can create a whole new vibe when natural lighting isn't available. Wall sconces combined with in-pool lighting can create a warm and inviting ambiance.

Overhead lighting is best avoided in an indoor pool area to avoid maintenance headaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an indoor swimming pool a good idea?

Indoor pools can be a good idea, but proper maintenance is crucial to ensure a safe and healthy swimming environment. However, the risks of chemical overexposure and health hazards may outweigh the benefits without careful consideration and precautions

What is the smallest size inground pool you can get?

The smallest in-ground pool sizes range from 10' x 10' to 12' x 24', with some compact options like Spool/Cocktail pools available in a 10' x 10' footprint. These compact pools are perfect for small backyards and offer a luxurious swimming experience.

What is the size of a small indoor pool?

A small indoor pool is typically 12 by 20 feet or less, with common sizes including 6x8 and 6x10 feet. These compact pools are perfect for small spaces, offering a refreshing oasis without taking up too much room.

Ella Paolini

Writer

Ella Paolini is a seasoned writer and blogger with a passion for sharing her expertise on various topics, from lifestyle to travel. With over five years of experience in the industry, she has honed her writing skills and developed a unique voice that resonates with readers. As an avid traveler, Ella has explored many parts of the world, immersing herself in new cultures and experiences.

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