Swimming pools

Lou Stoppard on the pool as a literary, cultural and artistic inspiration

If his neighbour could build a Tarzan-style mega-treehouse, surely Toby could trump him with a wild swimming pond… Words by Clare Coulson. Illustration by Phil Disley

Our man wrestles with the urge for a basement extension

The American fashion designer launched her eponymous label, known for chicly polished staples, in 2004 and last year was one of Forbes’ Most Powerful Women

From London town houses to Swiss chalets, swimming pools are now performing the ultimate disappearing act – and transforming into cinemas and ballrooms at the push of a button. Katrina Burroughs dives in

Pools are essential – but other hotel USPs hold even greater allure

Generous proportions, imaginative architecture, all-weather enjoyment – no wonder architect-designed pool houses are in such high demand. Dominic Bradbury dives into the detail

The pleasure of discovering a new and superior form of snobbery