One of the advantages of a classic hand-made pool is that they can be constructed almost anywhere if the materials can be brought to the site. This is a great example. In order to build this concrete swimming pool in a small courtyard all the materials had to be brought through the garage. An opening had to be made in order to squeeze in a digger.

There were other challenges too. In this case a new pool very close to existing neighbours structural walls made it even tougher technically. You cannot simply excavate in proximity to other walls and buildings because there’s a very serious risk of structural movement or even collapse. In this situation special support techniques were used that were originally perfected during the construction of the Berlin metro system [U-Bahn] in the late 19C. The technique called ‘ paroi berlinoise’ or Berlin wall requires steel piles to be driven below ground and shuttering boards used to create a reinforced concrete support against the foundations.

This is also a great example of the need to use experienced contractors. This technique may not be widely known and many smaller builders would not have known the importance of extra support. The result could have been disastrous.

The importance of drainage

Another critical consideration in any external construction is water management. This is even more important in enclosed spaces which are subsequently tiled or hard landscaped. It’s easy to forget how much it rains in the South of France and losing natural drainage means effective drains have to be included in the execution. All that water is going to go somewhere. Many people forget the importance of water management with nasty surprises later which can cause flooding, damp and problems with neighbouring properties. Here we were able to use a trick known to many for centuries - draining into the well! An existing well in the corner was a perfect place to empty the drains because water drained into the well simply dissipates in the water table. A series of drains fitted into the terracing connect to a drainage pipe concealed underground which drains to the well. A practical and perfect way to secure the area against flooding in heavy rain.

A summer kitchen makes a big difference to a pool area

A transit space between the garage and the courtyard was designed as the summer kitchen with passage hatch to a bar area. Where possible, we always try to design in a summer kitchen. Having simple food and drink preparation adjacent to the pool area transforms the feel of the final result and reduces the need for transit with drinks and glasses etc from the main kitchen. Just keep a well stocked fridge and drinks are on hand.

We wanted the final result to have a natural organic feel. We used mellow travertine for all terracing and rendered the summer kitchen in natural lime mortar. The result is cool, understated and tasteful and a perfect fit for this Scandinavian client. A real private oasis in the centre of the town that has not only added fabulous utility value but also significant equity value to the property.

Practical design insights:

• Special technical underpinning techniques used to secure neighbouring walls

• Transition space transformed into a summer kitchen

• Use of natural stone travertine and lime renders applied by hand creates mellow effect

• All materials and equipment brought through the garage