The Gartenbau- und Planungsfirma Wrede (landscaping and planning) in Edemissen in Lower Saxony seems to have reserved 3rd place. Year after year Mr. Wrede, head of the planning department of his company, presents natural pools that were built for only very limited space. In 2005 he won over the jury with the “mini pool” owned by the Gröblinghof family in Peine. This very pool was the reason why the Arnold family from Wunstorf also decided on a natural pool. It was clear what had to be done: 90 m² were available behind the house and the future owners wanted a design-oriented unornamented style that would include low maintenance but high relaxation. As no lawn was needed the element water was the dominating feature of the design. They also wanted a garden that would be attractive throughout the entire year as it could always be seen from the large living room window. Mr Wrede knew at once that a natural pool would meet expectations. However, the Arnold family doubted that there would be enough space available, in particular because a carport was also planned for the garden which comprised only 90 m². Having visited the pool in Peine they finally started to think about the possibility that this might also be realised in their garden. When the family came back from their visit, Mr. Wrede had already marked the shape of the pool and the carport on the ground with chalk. Once they saw this they were won over and contracted Mr. Wrede to design the pool for them. The following planning phase was intensive and the measuring was carried out exactly.

Now light green bamboo shines in front of light grey wooden walls where once grey concrete, a standard terrace and a fence as a privacy measure used to be. The water plants in the regeneration zone herald the different seasons of the year and the light and clouds are reflected from the water surface into the living room.

Shortly after completion each family member – including the dog – found their favourite spot on the deck made of Bangkiri wood. The daughters like either to swim in the water or relax on an air mattress. Nobody knows if the dog is really enjoying himself on the swimming board… However, the Arnold family is absolutely delighted: “The best idea we’ve ever had was to turn our garden into a natural pool.”

Key Facts:

Year of Construction: 2003

Water Surface:

• Swimming Area: 24 m²
  
• Regeneration Zone: 20 m²
  
• Total: 44 m²
  

Water Depth: 2.00 m

Technical Equipment:

• Water Circulation: yes
  
• Number of Pumps: 1
  
• Numbers of Skimmers: 1
  
• Plant Filter: yes
  

Owner and Operator:
Wunstorf Family (GER)

Planning & Implementation:
Fa. Wrede (GER)