How to Build a Natural Swimming Pool in Australia

A natural swimming pool—sometimes called a bio or eco pool—is a ripper of an option if you’re keen to ditch the harsh chemicals found in traditional pools. Instead of chucking in chlorine or other synthetic stuff, these pools use aquatic plants and good microorganisms to filter and clean the water. They’re designed to mimic natural ponds and lakes, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem that’s safe for a dip. If you’re into natural pool design, this setup not only looks beautiful but is also kind to the environment and gentle on your skin, saving water and energy through natural filtration.

If you’ve been wondering how to build a natural swimming pool here in Australia, you’re in luck—this guide’s got you covered with a step-by-step rundown. Whether you’re in the outback or a coastal spot, a natural pool design can work a treat, blending seamlessly with the Aussie landscape while keeping things eco-friendly. So, let’s dive in and get started on creating your own backyard oasis!

Table of Contents:

• How Do Natural Pools Work
• General Guide to Building a Natural Swimming Pool
  • Step 1. Planning and Design
  • Step 2. Excavation
  • Step 3. Pool Structure and Liner
  • Step 4. Regeneration Zone Construction
  • Step 5. Planting
  • Step 6. Circulation System Installation
  • Step 7. Filling and Initial Setup
  • Step 8. Landscaping and Finishing (Optional)
• Considerations for Building a Natural Swimming Pool
• Final Words

How Do Natural Pools Work

Wondering how do natural pools work? They work by mimicking the cleaning processes of lakes and ponds. The system consists of two main zones:

Two Zones:

• Swimming Area: Where you swim, kept primarily clear.
• Plant Zone (Regeneration Zone): A shallow area filled with unique water plants and gravel. This is the natural filter.

Natural Filter (Plant Zone) Does the Cleaning:

• Plants Eat Waste: Water plants absorb excess nutrients (like nitrates and phosphates) that would otherwise feed algae and dirty the water.
• Good Bugs Help: Beneficial bacteria and tiny organisms in the plant zone break down dirt and waste naturally.
• Gravel Traps Debris: Gravel and substrate in the plant zone act like a basic filter, catching larger bits of dirt.

Water Circulates: A pump moves water from the swimming area through the plant zone and back again, constantly cleaning it.

General Guide to Building a Natural Swimming Pool

Building a natural swimming pool in Australia requires planning, excavation, and careful ecosystem design. Here’s an overview of the process:

Step 1. Planning and Design

• Site Selection: Choose a sunny location with good drainage. Consider proximity to trees (leaf fall) and utilities.
• Size and Shape: Determine the size and shape of the swimming and regeneration zones. Aim for roughly equal surface areas.
• Depth: Swimming zone depth is similar to regular pools. Regeneration zone is typically shallower (around 1-2 feet).
• Design the Regeneration Zone: Plan the plant filter's layout, size, and depth. Decide on plant types, substrate (gravel, etc.), and water flow.
• Circulation System: Plan the pump, pipes, and water flow between zones.
• Materials: Choose natural and non-toxic materials for the pool structure, liner, and landscaping.

Step 2. Excavation

Excavate the swimming zone and regeneration zone according to your design. Shape the pool basin and create the separation between zones.

Step 3. Pool Structure and Liner

Construct the pool walls and basin using concrete, blocks, or other suitable materials. Install a waterproof liner specifically designed for natural pools. This liner is crucial for preventing leaks and separating the pool water from the surrounding soil.

Step 4. Regeneration Zone Construction

Construct the walls or barriers separating the regeneration and swimming zones. Layer the regeneration zone with gravel, substrate, and planting soil as designed.

Step 5. Planting

Select appropriate aquatic plants for your climate and desired filtration. Plant a mix of submerged oxygenators, floating plants, and emergent plants in the regeneration zone.

Step 6. Circulation System Installation

Install the pump, pipes, skimmers, and any other circulation components. Ensure proper water flow between the swimming and regeneration zones.

Step 7. Filling and Initial Setup

Fill the pool with water. Allow the system to establish itself. This can take several weeks or months for the plants to grow and the biological filtration to become fully active. Monitor water parameters and adjust as needed.

Step 8. Landscaping and Finishing (Optional)

Landscape around the pool with natural materials like stones, rocks, and native plants to enhance the natural aesthetic. Add any desired features like waterfalls, streams, or decking.

Considerations for Building a Natural Swimming Pool

• More Space Needed – Requires about twice the traditional pool area due to the plant filtration zone.
• Higher Upfront Cost – You may wonder how much does a natural pool cost. The initial investment can equal or exceed conventional pools. Savings come from reduced chemical costs.
• Biological Maintenance – No chemicals, but hands-on upkeep is required:
  • Plant Pruning – Regularly trim plants to maintain filtration efficiency.
  • Debris Removal – Skim leaves to prevent organic buildup.
  • Biofilm Management – Natural biofilm forms but should be controlled in the swim zone for aesthetics and safety.
  • Aiper robotic pool cleaner is sturdy for the challenges of natural pools, such as irregular shapes, biofilm slipperiness, and organic debris. It supplements, not replaces, other maintenance practices like circulation, filtration, and plant management.
• Water Monitoring – Less frequent testing than chemical pools; focus on ecosystem health.
• Natural Water Appearance – Clean and healthy but may not be "crystal clear"; can have a slight tea-colored tint.
• Wildlife Presence –
  • Do natural pools attract snakes, or do natural pools attract mosquitoes? While mosquitoes are usually deterred by circulating water, wildlife like frogs and dragonflies are common.
  • You may wonder can you have fish in a natural swimming pool? The answer is yes—certain fish species, such as minnows, can help control algae and mosquito larvae while adding to the natural beauty of the pool.
• Climate Considerations – Ideal for seasonal climates; winterization and plant selection matter in extreme conditions.
• Regulations & Permits (Australia-Specific) – Understanding local regulations is crucial when learning how to build a natural pool. In Australia, key legal considerations include:
  • Local Council Approval – Regulations vary; always check with your council.
  • Building Permits – Usually required.
  • Pool Fencing – Must meet Australian safety standards.
  • Water Management & Drainage – Council may regulate discharge.
  • Environmental Regulations – Plant selection and ecological impact assessments may apply.
  • Health & Safety – Are natural pools safe? Water quality standards may be enforced to ensure safety.
• Professional Help Advised – Specialized designers and builders ensure long-term ecosystem success.
• Patience Required – Ecosystem balance takes time; water clarity improves over the first few seasons.

Final Words

A good natural swimming pool can allow you to experience the outdoors without all the trekking in Australia. Of course, it would require careful planning, upfront capital expenditures, and continuous investments of time and money; however, the trade-offs are pretty worth it in the end. A well-designed natural pool would serve as an excellent substitute for the conventional pool, add value to your property, and increase the biodiversity of your environment.