In Kirchbichl, Popular massive a pool and terrace complex, is being built under the design of the renowned office "Konturgut." The targeted WPC terraces and pathways create a "sculpted landscape," linking various levels and recreational areas into a harmonious whole.

Not only in Germany, but also in neighboring Austria, WPC decking from NaturinForm impresses builders and landscape architects alike. For example, entrepreneur Herbert Schiessl in Kirchbichl in the Kufstein region opted for this high-quality wood composite material when planning his new terrace. 180 m2 of the Popular massive honeycomb-profile decking in brown were used to create the octagonal pool area and for two terraces as a living space extension. As the homeowner explains, the surfaces were previously laid with granite and partly with wood. The "weakening" appearance was one of the reasons for the redesign. However, this time a permanently attractive solution was needed. "Our decision to use WPC was absolutely the right one. The NaturinForm decking has stood the test of time. The terraces have been in place for more than three summers and, just as they did at the beginning, present an elegantly attractive appearance," says Herbert Schiessl.

House, terrace and pool – a harmonious unit

Planner Manfred Walder, owner of the internationally active planning firm "Konturgut" founded nine years ago in neighboring Wörgl, was entrusted with the design task. The objective was to bring the house, terraces, pool, and the 480 m² garden into a harmonious design, "tying them together" both visually and emotionally with a unifying element. Creating a piece of landscape through targeted terrace and path layouts seemed a promising concept. Inclined ramps were intended to link the various levels and demonstrate a harmonious overall structure. Walder assigned different levels to specific recreational areas. Details were considered and planned together with the homeowner. Herbert Schiessl, for example, specified ground-level access to the pool and powder-coated steel edges. Furthermore, the extensive outdoor area had to be better protected than before from the elements and "loss of face." Meeting this requirement required the use of an innovative material.

Although the choice of suitable product wasn't yet clear prior to planning, it quickly became clear during a visit to the NaturinForm booth at the Munich trade fair for construction. Examples of existing projects, sample boards, technical information, and expert on-site consultations helped thehomeowner and planner decide Popular massive on the decking board.

A smart choice, as WPC decking consists of 70% wood fiber and 30% pure natural plastic – a material combination with many advantages. "The main focus was on comfortable walking and slip resistance around the pool, but also on weather resistance and low maintenance," explains Manfred Walder. Another striking feature is the attractive linear appearance of the installed decking. The seamless installation, thanks to even long profile lengths of 13 m, perfectly emphasizes the direction and lines of the decking."

Generously sized floorboard area

The decking, including the substructure, was installed by an established carpentry company. WPC decking in lengths ranging from 3 to 13 m was used – "absolutely problem-free." Even edging the 120 m² octagonal swimming pool posed no problems thanks to easy decking cutting using conventional woodworking tools. The edges of the terraces and walkways leading to the lawns were formed with recessed, powder-coated metal angles. The generously dimensioned decking area around the pool offers ample space for individual seating and lounging options, as well as for decorative, modern flower pots and light globes of various sizes and arrangements. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the living area not only allow for a charming view of the terrace and swimming pool, but also of the surrounding foothills of the Kaiser Mountains. Furthermore, the terrace decks, which extend to the house facade, harmonize perfectly with the warm yellow color scheme of the building.

Owner Schiessl and planner Walder rate the appearance and usability of the garden, pool, and terrace area as "very good." The naturally attractive wood look combines with the stylish appearance of the terrace decks to create a truly comfortable ambiance. Furthermore, no signs of weathering are yet visible on the floorboards.

Planner Manfred Walder, office “konturgut – Hochstand zur Raumbildung”, Wörgl Tyrol, on WPC as a contemporary material for functional outdoor floor designs

“In my opinion, WPC can do four things more than wood: Firstly, it is dimensionally stable and does not warp; secondly, it does not splinter; thirdly, it is slip-resistant – even when wet; fourthly, it is largely maintenance-free (does not need to be oiled or painted) and still retains its
Color. These are all factors that we as planners must consider when designing a wooden deck, pool surround, or boat dock. Added to that, quality WPC conserves resources, is readily available, and is sustainable. And for us as planners, the material opens up an enormous range of design and application possibilities."