Infinity Pool Construction Guide: Design, System & Lasting Benefits
Infinity pools are not just beautiful — they are a statement. From their seamless mirror surfaces to the quiet elegance of their hydraulic systems, they represent the finest blend of architecture, engineering, and sensory experience.
But how exactly are these pools built? And what makes their construction so different from traditional pools?
In this guide, discover how an infinity pool works, what technical elements are required, and how to design one that blends perfectly with your landscape — whether on a hillside, in a tropical garden, or next to a luxury villa.
What is an infinity pool
Infinity edge pools — also known as zero-edge or negative edge pools — use an advanced overflow system: a reverse hydraulic mechanism that continuously skims the surface, ensuring clean water and optimal mixing of maintenance products. This setup offers superior water quality, enhanced energy efficiency, and reduced upkeep compared to traditional systems.
Construction Features and Surface Options
Most infinity pools are made of reinforced concrete, applied either as poured concrete or shotcrete, allowing a wide range of shapes — from free-form to strict geometry. Depending on the site and project, builders may use steel or wooden formwork, lost formwork like concrete or polystyrene blocks, or even pre-fabricated kits and shells provided by manufacturers. These pools are typically built in-ground — either fully or partially buried — depending on the natural slope and soil conditions of the site. A variety of surface finishes can be selected to suit both aesthetic and functional needs: reinforced PVC membranes, fibreglass, mosaics, Pebble Tec, quartz, or polished aggregate. Each option comes with its own advantages in terms of appearance, feel, and maintenance level.
Further reading
Infinity pool overlooking the sea – Spanish coast near Barcelona.
Discover the full project in Catalonia
Overflow System and Circulation
To illustrate the system’s distinctiveness, a diagram is often used to compare a traditional skimmer pool with an overflow pool.
In conventional pools, wall-mounted skimmers draw in water, which is then filtered and returned via return inlets. This setup keeps the waterline approximately 15 cm below the coping.
In contrast, the water level in an infinity pool sits close to the coping edge. In deck-level or mirror pools, the waterline is perfectly aligned with the surrounding terrace, creating a calm, reflective surface.
What truly sets infinity pools apart is the filtration method: water doesn’t get pulled directly from the pool. Instead, it overflows into a peripheral gutter and flows into a balancing tank. From there, it’s filtered and pumped back into the basin through inlets located on the pool floor and walls. This continuous loop supports consistent water quality and ensures the aesthetic effect of the vanishing edge is maintained.
Importantly, this does not mean water is wasted. The same volume circulates — no more, no less — contrary to common misconceptions found online.
Benefits of an infinity edge pool
Infinity edge swimming pools offer more than just stunning visuals. Their advanced overflow systems provide consistently high water quality and make ongoing maintenance simpler and more efficient.
Technical Advantages and Hydraulic Efficiency
The overflow system ensures continuous circulation of water, which promotes even distribution of heat and treatment products. Water flows from the bottom to the surface, preventing stagnation and ensuring clarity. Compared to traditional skimmer pools, this system supports better hygiene and reduced manual upkeep.
Salt chlorinators further enhance user comfort by replacing chlorine with a gentler alternative.
What was once reserved for public pools is now available for private installations, making advanced water treatment accessible and discreet
Expert tips from Morana 👇
A custom-made infinity swimming pool
Architects and pool builders can design and build this type of pool. However, if you want greater control and cost optimisation, working with a dedicated pool designer ensures a better fit between vision and reality.
Affordably build a pool
Despite their complexity, infinity edge pools can be built cost-effectively by well-guided general contractors or modular solutions — especially when supported by an experienced pool designer.
Get your own bespoke infinity edge pool
Architectural and Visual Impact
Seamless Horizon Effect: A negative edge pool creates the illusion of water extending infinitely to the horizon, merging with the landscape. This visual effect is especially striking when overlooking natural scenery.
Mirror-Like Surface: In zero-edge pools, the waterline aligns with the deck, creating a perfectly still surface that reflects the surroundings — sky, light, architecture.
Modern and Luxurious Appeal: Infinity pools, with their clean lines and minimalist forms, embody architectural sophistication and timeless luxury.
Enhanced Visual Space: By erasing the visible edge, the pool visually enlarges the property and creates a sense of openness and tranquillity.
Integration with Nature: These pools are designed to dissolve the boundary between built and natural environments — whether positioned in a garden, by the sea, or on a hillside.
Unique Water Features : The overflow edge can be designed to produce waterfalls or cascades, enhancing beauty and bringing a soothing acoustic element to the setting.
Versatile Design Options : Options: Infinity pools can be adapted to many configurations — organic or geometric — making them ideal for bespoke, high-end architectural settings.
Enhanced Property Value :With their high perceived value and strong emotional appeal, infinity pools can increase both the market value and desirability of a property.
The key components of infinity edge pool construction
When building a semi-inground or inground infinity pool, integrating a few specific components is essential to ensuring long-term reliability and user comfort. While these elements are not expensive, omitting them can lead to complications in usage and maintenance — whether indoors or outdoors.
Catch Basin System
Without a balancing tank — also known as a surge tank — the pool cannot spill over. This essential component stores excess water before it is drawn into the filtration system. Its volume must be calculated carefully, taking into account the pool’s volume, the overflow length, and the expected number of bathers. An undersized tank risks spilling water during heavy rain or periods of intense use, while an oversized tank leads to unnecessary costs. Getting this balance right is critical to the pool’s performance and efficiency.
Want to dive deeper into balancing tank design and sizing? [Read our dedicated article here]
Water Level Controlers
Proper regulation in the balance tank helps prevent damage from insufficient water levels. Several cost-effective options exist: floats, probes, non-return valves, and automatic filling solenoid valves. Together, these devices automate the refill process and help avoid operational failures.
The gutter
The gutter collects overflow water and directs it to the balancing tank. Its position depends on the overflow type: - in a classic infinity pool, it sits directly under the vanishing edge; - in a zero-edge configuration, it surrounds the pool perimeter.
A properly designed gutter reduces turbulence and splashing, and contributes to maintaining a quiet, seamless water return — reinforcing both hydraulic performance and the mirror effect on the pool’s surface.
The piping network
Often invisible, the hydraulic network is the pool’s backbone. It ensures efficient water circulation, supports filtration, and contributes directly to the visual signature of the vanishing edge. A carefully designed piping layout also improves energy efficiency, makes maintenance easier, and ensures reliable long-term performance — especially in complex setups that integrate features such as spas or tanning ledges.
Tips for successful integration
Designing an infinity pool isn’t just about technical know-how — it’s about crafting a living space that blends perfectly with its surroundings. The following principles ensure both visual elegance and long-term harmony.
Location Selection
Choose a naturally sloped area with an open view. The orientation should maximise sunlight, protect from prevailing winds, and offer a striking perspective — whether towards the sea, a garden, or the sky. A well-placed infinity pool becomes a true visual extension of the landscape.
Shape and size choice
The dimensions and form should be tailored to the property’s layout and aesthetic. Avoid oversized or overly complex shapes that may overpower the space or disrupt the balance with surrounding elements. Clean geometry and thoughtful proportions contribute to both serenity and sophistication.
Material and Colours
Choose materials and colours that harmonise with the architecture and environment. Subtle contrasts or tone-on-tone palettes can emphasise the calm mirror effect. Reflective finishes enhance the pool’s visual integration with its surroundings, particularly under natural light.
Visual Perspective and Mirror Effect
The beauty of a mirror pool lies in its stillness and symmetry. To preserve this effect, ensure precision in level alignment, coping edges, and surface finishes. Avoid accessories or elements that interrupt the reflection plane.
Coherence with Architecture
From the terrace to the landscape, transitions must feel fluid and intentional. An infinity pool should reinforce the property’s architectural identity — not compete with it. Invisible technical elements, restrained materials, and sleek detailing elevate the design to a timeless standard.
Infinity Edge Pool – Common Myths Explained
Does a balancing tank really need to hold at least 10% of the pool’s volume?
No. The ideal size of a balancing tank depends on the pool’s surface area, overflow length, and expected bather load. In many cases, less than 10% of the pool’s volume is sufficient — provided the system is well-calculated and balanced.
Is a second filtration pump always necessary for an infinity edge pool?
No. A second pump is only needed in specific cases, such as poor overflow design or complex multi-zone configurations. A well-designed infinity pool works efficiently with a single, correctly dimensioned pump.
Do you need an oversized filtration system for an infinity pool?
No. Standard filtration systems are typically sufficient. The key lies in precision and balance — not in oversizing. Proper flow rates, return line layout, and water level control ensure optimal performance without over-investing in equipment.
Do infinity pools waste water compared to traditional pools?
No. Despite popular belief, infinity edge pools do not consume more water. The water that spills over is collected, filtered, and returned to the pool. With proper design, there is no overconsumption — only a continuous, elegant flow.
Are overflow pools more difficult to maintain?
On the contrary. The overflow system ensures constant surface skimming and better distribution of treatment products. This reduces algae growth and sediment accumulation, making maintenance easier and more efficient than in a standard skimmer pool.
Costs saving tips
Infinity edge pools are often perceived as a luxury accessible only to high-end projects. While it’s true that their design requires more precision and specific equipment, there are several ways to make them more affordable without compromising quality or performance.
Convert an existing pool
If you already own a skimmer pool, it may be possible to convert it into an infinity edge pool, especially if the structure is made of reinforced concrete. Renovation options include modifying the water level, creating a new overflow edge, or adding features such as a tanning ledge or spa.
Optimise the overflow configuration
Not every overflow needs to be on all four sides. A single-edge or two-sided overflow can deliver stunning results while reducing the required length of overflow gutter and catch basin — which has a direct impact on costs.
Work with a pool designer
Collaborating with a professional designer can help you identify cost-effective solutions early in the project. A tailored design can avoid unnecessary complexity, reduce excavation or reinforcement needs, and ensure that all technical systems are correctly dimensioned from the start.
Use readily available components
Many overflow-compatible systems and accessories are now widely available for residential use. Instead of using bespoke industrial components, consider using modular kits for the balancing tank, regulation devices, or piping — provided that quality and compatibility are verified.
Phase the construction
In some cases, elements such as spas, waterfalls or secondary basins can be planned in the initial design and added in later stages. This allows the core pool to be built first, while deferring some costs and adapting future additions to budget availability.
By combining intelligent design choices and strategic planning, an infinity edge pool can become a financially viable investment — without sacrificing aesthetic impact or hydraulic efficiency.›
Summary of key points
Here’s a structured overview of the most important design, technical, and planning aspects to keep in mind when building an infinity edge pool.
Design considerations
- Infinity edge positioning
- Hydraulic balance precision
- Overflow channel integration
- Landscaping & reflections
- Energy efficient solutions
Key elements for success
- Bespoke design approach
- Optimised plumbing layout
- Premium material selection
- Weather & climate adaptation
- Automated water control
Critical construction factors
- Structural reinforcement needs
- Precision laser levelling
- High-quality waterproofing
- Advanced filtration systems
- Expert hydraulic engineering
Conclusion
Infinity edge pools are not just a visual delight — they are a strategic investment in long-term comfort, water quality, and seamless integration with the landscape.
When designed with precision and built using well-balanced systems, these pools offer an elevated experience, both aesthetically and functionally.
Whether you’re dreaming of a mirror-like surface reflecting the sky, or a discreet cascade that disappears into the horizon, an expertly designed infinity pool adapts to your vision — and enhances the property that surrounds it.
Working with a professional designer ensures that each detail — from hydraulic flow to edge alignment — is handled with care.
It’s not just about building a pool. It’s about crafting a lasting harmony between architecture, water, and nature.
