Deciding to add an indoor pool to your home is an increasingly common request, whether it's for fitness, health, general well-being or just for spending quality time with your children and family - it is undoubtedly a desirable luxury. When it comes to creating your dream indoor pool, making smart choices in design can significantly impact the project's cost and help your budget go further. It’s very easy for an architect or inexperienced designer to plan a lavish, generously proportioned indoor pool building that looks fantastic, incorporating a gym, bar, spa, sauna and steam room only to find out when it reaches the pricing stage it is more than what a client wants or could spend. At the early stages of the design, it’s important to understand the options that will save you money and ensure you have a scheme that suits your needs and budget too. Here are some key considerations and basic design aspects that can help you make the most of your indoor pool project without breaking the bank.

Size matters, especially when it comes to your pool and pool building. While a 25-metre pool may sound impressive, it also comes with substantial construction and operational costs with the size of the pool house itself having the biggest impact on the overall budget. Consider your specific needs and preferences, if you’re a professional swimmer then a 10-metre pool may not be for you however, it is the national average size for an indoor pool based around family fun and general exercise. The 10-metre length also helps keep costs in check while maximising enjoyment. We are also seeing an increase in requests for smaller pools with high-end swim devices fitted, such as the Velocity or Fastlane. A good swim device is like a treadmill; you don’t need to stop at the end and turn around; you just set the water flow at the desired speed and swim away. You can even program swim intervals where you exercise at a high pace for 3 minutes and then have a slower recovery interval for 1 minute before the next interval. These devices offer an exceptional swimming experience without the need for an Olympic-sized pool. It's also more cost-effective to include a swimming device than it is to go for a longer pool (and building) as it reduces the heating demand and ongoing running costs.

The decision to connect your indoor pool to your house or have it as a stand-alone structure can significantly affect the project's cost and construction timeline. Stand-alone pools are generally more cost-effective as they often require simpler building finishes and quicker construction. On the other hand, connecting your pool to your home introduces additional complexities, including access to the pool area and enhanced requirements for vapour control and air management. It's also typical that your building finishes will need to match or complement the house, i.e. brick or render finish with a slate or clay tile roof - all this will increase costs. Consider your preferences and budget when deciding between connected or stand-alone designs.

Think carefully about various additions like a gym, bar area, or sauna, it's essential to prioritise what truly enhances your pool complex. If you’re keen on adding a sauna to increase relaxation, include this in the design from the start to keep your budget on track. Each addition increases both fit-out costs and the overall square footage of construction.

Investing in a pool cover is a must for indoor pools. It not only helps retain heat but also significantly reduces running costs. While entry-level bubble covers are cost-effective, automatic key-operated slatted covers offer improved safety and heat retention and come in at around £11,000 inc VAT. For those looking for a sleek, hidden solution, underwater housing with a slatted cover can be an attractive but more expensive option closer to £25,000. Although these costs may seem overwhelming, the right pool cover is instrumental in ensuring future lower running costs.

Roof glazing can flood your indoor pool area with natural light, creating a bright and inviting space. However, it's essential to strike a balance between the benefits of natural light and potential heat loss. Additional roof glazing can increase both construction costs and ongoing energy expenses. Consider your location and sunlight exposure carefully to make an informed choice.

When embarking on your indoor pool project, it's crucial to seek guidance from experienced professionals who understand both the building structure and the pool elements. Most clients are typically looking to add a tailored addition to their home that they can afford and all the family can enjoy without breaking the bank. Getting clear guidance on the design options for your particular location and an accurate budget is vital at the early stage to help you decide if the project is feasible. Origin specialises in creating tailored indoor pools that align with your vision, needs, and budget. Our experts will provide you with clear guidance on design options, feasibility, and costs, ensuring that your indoor pool project is a smart and enjoyable investment in your home.