04/08/2026
Pools of all kinds are taking centre stage this summer.
Who should you speak to if you have a home build or renovation project in mind and it includes a swimming pool? Are you looking for an architect or a garden designer?'
We paired up with Kent garden designer Marlene Lento, who specialises in pool gardens, to give you the answer. It seems we agree that both architect and garden designer are required and a good pairing will collaborate to get the best results for the client in terms of the end results and the build, and even your budget!
💦Stephanie Mason from OPEN architecture said:
"The most impactful designs seamlessly blend the indoors and outdoors - we live in both spaces, after all. Great design happens when every element is conceived as one, with the pool, home and landscape working together to create a unified vision. The result is a seamless living environment that flows naturally and makes people feel truly at home."
💦Marlene Lento "In my opinion the landscape designer, the architect, and the interior designer should collaborate from the start on any home project that includes a pool. OPEN architecture is in a great position to provide this synchronisation as they have the latter two in house. The three together can work out:
▪️Circulation: between house and garden, as well as internally
▪️Views: from and towards the house (levels, transitions, materials)
▪️Sequencing: creating a logical implementation plan
All of these optimise the client’s budget and the cohesiveness and functionality of the design."
📸 Thanks to Marlene for sharing your photos: credit Marlene Lento Design Studio
