On natural pools

We LOVE natural pools @ Moss. We have designed 3 so far, each integrated into very different settings. It’s fair to say that in each project the pool has become the ”pièce de resistance”, the most important and talked about feature.

In the process of designing these 3 pools, (two of them have been built already, one of them features on our portfolio page and the other one features regularly on our Instagram stories) we have learned huge amounts about them and thought we’d share what we’ve learned.

First, what is a natural pool?

A swimming pool that doesn’t require the use of chemical to keep its water clean. It uses aquatic plants to do the filtration.

Why should you consider a natural pool as opposed to a traditional pool

  1. They are STUNNING. The water colour changes all the time, they are very reflective so reflect the sky, look amazing through all the seasons. They blend very well in the landscape and look more, well, natural.
  2. The swimming experience is pure luxury, their water is very soft and clean.
  3. Most natural pool owners tend to swim all year long.
  4. They’re healthier as use no chemicals.
  5. They are amazing for biodiversity.

Myth busting facts

1. The water is murky and there is algae. FALSE

The regenerative plant zone ( along with a natural but sophisticated filter and pump system) do an excellent job at filtering the water and keeping all the organic matter and debris away from the swimming zone. So the water is actually the cleanest, softest and clearest you’d experience. A bit like swimming in a river near its source.

2. They attract mosquitoes. FALSE

Because there is a filtration and pump system, the water is always moving and therefore mosquitoes WILL NOT lay their eggs in the regeneration zone. There is no stagnant water.

3. They’re more expansive than traditional pools. FALSE

The implementation is similar in costs but their maintenance/running costs are less than traditional pools (no need for constant chlorine, chemicals to be poured in).

Public natural pools

They work! Barbara Samitier, our founder has become slightly obsessed and looks out for them wherever she travels to. See pics of the latest one she took her family to, in the Dolomites. How amazing does it look surrounded by mountain views? Pure bliss.

Swimming pond @lusnerhofnaturhotel in the Dolomites.
Public pool in the Dolomites.