Hilleary disagrees. In fact, he sells a detailed step-by-step pool construction guide on his website and says that many general contractors and homeowners have built well-functioning NSPs. Some have opted to do the work themselves and hire him as a consultant.
Regardless of who builds it, most jurisdictions don’t require special permitting for an NSP and, other than safety rules such as the requirement for fencing, there tend to be few restrictions when building one on a private residence.
Living With an NSP
The cost of operating and maintaining an NSP should be lower than for a conventional pool. Owners need to empty the skimmer periodically (every week or month, depending on local conditions) and vacuum the pool at least once a season. They will also need to do some plant maintenance at the end of the season. “I used to spend $650 per season in pool chemicals,” says Hilleary. “With a natural pool you don’t have that cost.”
In cold climates, the plumbing and pumps serving the NSP need to be winterized. Although the swimming zone can be covered with a winter cover, many owners leave their pools open. Some even use them as skating ponds. It’s part of a mind-set that understands the NSP as a natural feature. Says Brown: “Instead of trying to make everything dead, you get to enjoy a healthy body of water that takes care of itself.”
NSPs can have an open and inviting feel, such as the example shown (right) or a more spa-like retreat ambience (above).
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