Thank you for the question and the compliment on the pool design. If you go without a screen, we certainly recommend a cleaning system and possibly a back-up for the time of year when leaves fall the heaviest. The systems can work when designed properly by the manufacturer and if someone is available or hired to empty the debris as needed. Another consideration is having an Arborist visit your site to determine distances to maintain from your trees, so they will have best chance to live. Hope this helps!