As in other parts of the garden, the overall concept and make-up of a pond can be split into the elements of hard and soft landscape. The method of construction and certain features will fall under the former while the planting, fish, insect and other life will follow on as a natural second stage to complement the size, position, materials and style chosen for the pool.
I have already mentioned the differences between concrete and liner construction, emphasizing the advantages of the latter being made from material that is better suited to prolonged contact with water.
In most instances, and certainly in formal pools, the liner will need anchoring in some way. This is usually done with a coping that surrounds the pool. The range of copings is wide but your choice should, if possible, take its cue from materials used elsewhere in the garden. If you have a terrace or patio constructed from stone slabs then your pool could use a similar coping. The same would apply to brick, slate or concrete paving. Preformed fibreglass pools should also be fitted with a coping to disguise the edge — brick often conforms best to the convoluted shapes of many of the free-form types. For durability and safety the coping should be securely bedded on mortar. If a pool is situated within a lawn area then the coping should be set slightly below the level of the turf so that a mower can run smoothly over the top.
Lighting can add an altogether new dimension to a pool at night. There are a number of easy-toinstall kits available. Safety is of paramount importance, so if in doubt, employ the services of a qualified electrician. Some pool lighting is appalling, particularly the floating, rotating, multicoloured displays that seem designed to induce a migraine in double-quick time. Stick to white and blue bulbs, which are both the most natural and the most effective. Bulbs in these colours will enhance the appearance of the foliage growing in and around the water rather than detract from it, and can be used in conjunction with other areas of lighting around the garden. Simplicity and subtlety are the keys to success, otherwise the resulting illuminated scene will merely look contrived
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