High-end

Infinity or mirror-edge pool: the differences

Two spectacular pools, often confused with one another. Here is what really sets them apart, so you can choose with full knowledge of the facts.

Updated in June 2026 · 5 min read

The infinity and the mirror-edge are the two most prestigious finishes for a pool. Both play on a sheet of water that sits flush with the edge, but the effect and the construction differ. Here is the breakdown.

The infinity pool

The water overflows continuously over one or two sides of the pool, into a hidden channel, before flowing into a balance tank and then being filtered and returned. The other edges keep a classic coping.

The result: a striking « infinite » effect, especially when the sheet of water extends towards a landscape, a lake or a view. This is the grand spectacle, ideal on a sloping plot or with a clear horizon.

Infinity pool with an infinite effect — The infinity edge: the water blends into the landscape on one or two sides.

The mirror-edge pool

Here, the water overflows on all four sides, level with the coping, into a fine perimeter channel. The surface becomes a perfect mirror that reflects the sky and the architecture.

The effect is more graphic, more refined, and highly prized in contemporary architecture. In return, it demands absolute flatness of the coping: technically, it is the most demanding finish.

Mirror-edge pool with a perfect reflection — The mirror edge: the water sits flush on all four sides for a total reflection.

The differences at a glance

	Infinity	Mirror-edge
Overflowing sides	1 or 2	4
Effect	Infinite, towards a view	Reflection, graphic
Ideal plot	Slope, clear view	Flat, architectural
Technical demand	High	Very high (flatness)

Common ground: structure and maintenance

In both cases, the pool is built in reinforced concrete (the only technique precise enough for these finishes) and features a balance tank as well as a dedicated pump. Maintenance is very close to that of a classic pool, with the addition of regular cleaning of the channel and the balance tank.

How to choose?

If you have a beautiful view or a sloping plot, the infinity edge will show it off to perfection. If you are looking for a refined, architectural effect on a flat plot, the mirror edge is made for you. In both cases, this is an exceptional project that deserves genuine concrete expertise.

Does an infinity edge use more water?

No: the water that overflows is collected in the balance tank and recirculated in a closed circuit. Only evaporation calls for a top-up, just as with a classic pool.

Does the mirror effect work all the time?

It is at its best when the water is calm. During swimming it fades, then re-establishes itself as soon as the water becomes still again. In the morning and the evening, the reflection is at its most spectacular.

Which one costs more?

Both represent an added cost compared with a classic pool (balance tank, pump, construction precision). The mirror edge, more demanding in terms of flatness, is generally the more expensive. The price is defined according to the project.

Can an infinity or mirror edge be done in a fibreglass pool?

These finishes are done in concrete, the only technique precise enough. Some fibreglass pools do, however, offer a partial infinity effect or an integrated mirror skimmer.

Dreaming of an exceptional pool?

Tell us about your plot: we will study the feasibility of an infinity or mirror edge at your home.

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