A Haven of Simplicity, Clarity and Calm

facts

Year of construction: 2008
water area:
- swimming area: 110 m²
- regeneration area: 55 m²
- bio filter area: 55 m²
- total area: 220 m²
water depth: 1,8 m
other:
Planning: Landscape Architect Erik Dhont, Brussels, Belgium

planning and completion:
ZZ_Watelle bvba
be-8340 Sijsele-Damme

A Haven of Simplicity, Clarity and Calm

Belgian landscaping architect Erik Dhont’s inspiration for this pool came from the canals that typify many regions of the rural landscape of Flanders. He created a kilometer-long line of sight into the depths of the landscape that begins with the ensemble of cube-like wooden cabanas, stretches across the length of the canal and extends through a gateway of linden trees, stopping only at the church tower in the neighboring village. The Natural Pool’s reed bed, blossoming tall perennials along the edge of the pool, the windbreaker hedgerows comprised of indigenous bushes on either side, a mowed, green pathway winding through the meadow towards the village, a massive black granite sculpture peering out from above the reed bed, sharp-edged field hedges cutting across the axis and staggered plant heights, not to mention color and textural contrasts are all elements that contribute to this uniquely subtle landscape architecture. Everything appears to be quite naturally in its proper place, but in reality the composition is reminiscent of a depth-perspective study of a landscape painting. Often we long for simplicity, clarity, calm and a oneness with nature. In a haven such as this, we can certainly find what we are looking for.