Designing Infinity Pools on Sloped Terrain: Taormina and the Coast

Cliffside pools are possible, but only with the right foundation strategy, drainage, and permitting approach.

Taormina and the eastern coast offer breathtaking views, but the terrain is steep and geologically complex. Building an infinity pool here is an engineering project first, and a design project second.

Why slope changes everything

  • Foundations: often require micropiles or retaining structures.
  • Drainage: hillside water must be managed to avoid erosion.
  • Seismic loads: pool mass affects structural calculations.

Key technical checkpoints

  1. Geotechnical survey to define soil behavior.
  2. Structural design for pool shell and retaining walls.
  3. Hydraulic engineering for overflow and filtration systems.

Permits and landscape constraints

Coastal zones can involve landscape and heritage constraints. The design must consider visibility, setbacks, and water management to be approved.

Luxury without surprises

When engineered correctly, the pool increases asset value and positioning. When rushed, it becomes a long-term maintenance and legal risk.