Table of contents for No. 33 in Poolside Showcase

My friend recently installed a gorgeous new pool that has become the get-together spot for our group. “We’re not going overseas anytime soon, so we spent the holiday money on a new pool,” she explained. While her remarks can sound a wee bit lavish, she’s not the only one with this mindset. The pool industry is booming, with Aussies making the most of their staycation by building their own pool. And with international borders remaining closed, the demand is growing. Some pool companies have disclosed they have so much work on that they aren’t able to take on any new jobs for the rest of the year. It’s fair to say people across the country have become more focused on improving their homes and gardens by making them more pleasant…

The ideal positioning for your pool is a spot that delivers privacy, catches the sun in autumn or spring, is sheltered from the wind and allows safe supervision of your children. There are also a few other factors you may consider priorities when you are deciding on your swimming pool placement. SWIMMING POOL PLACEMENT IN SMALL BACKYARDS In a confined space, the most popular option is to position the pool against an existing feature such as the house, fence or other boundary as this maximises the available space. In a small backyard, you can create the illusion of space by positioning the pool along the longest span of the backyard. If you have decided to put your pool near the boundary of your property, you will want to minimise disruption…

Advances in construction technologies, along with the ability of designers to push the envelope, have opened doors to unique opportunities in the aquatics industry. One such advancement has been the recent popularity of podium pools, also known as high-rise pools, which are built on the second floor of a building or higher. Planning and co-ordination required for this type of project is magnified. The size, depth and type of pool must be well organised, usually before the building structure is designed. With this particular pool, the Beau Corp team installed a structural vault — a concrete box that serves as something of a foundation for the pool — prior to the installation of the pool shell itself. Once that vault was constructed, the pool had to fit in the space…

KHD Landscape Engineering Solutions loves working with designers and clients who challenge themselves to bring out the best in their homes. A good case in point is this major renovation to a 1930s Malvern bungalow which presented myriad interesting challenges, including a rear garden and pool area that required a completely different look and feel to the front garden. In addition, a multi-car garage was to be housed under a concrete slab beneath the front garden. The client also insisted Australian bluestone pavers be installed over a waterproof membrane. Finally, a car lift platform required a low-profile tile with enough strength to handle vehicular traffic. For the front garden, 40mm-thick Australian bluestone in an ashlar pattern was laid on paver supports to ensure the membrane was protected. This allows the…

Prior to this extensive pool and garden renovation, a dated kidney-shaped pool took up most of the rear garden belonging to a busy family with young children. The placement of the old pool required the homeowner and their family to travel around the pool area whenever they wanted to access the garage and leave the property, which just wasn’t practical. “In a nutshell, their old pool was too big, outdated, and took up most of the rear garden,” explains Nick McCarthy, owner of Urban Escape. “The brief was to make the pool smaller to provide lawn for the kids, and better access from the rear lane-accessed garage — the main entry point that is used on a daily basis.” While the homeowner designed the pool renovation, Urban Escape undertook the…

By definition, “equilibrium” is a state of rest or balance between several different influences. As with all of Equilibrium Pools’ designs and projects, this one, nicknamed Neridah’s Way, aligned with the company’s philosophy: a balanced lifestyle. The owners of Neridah’s Way, a young family in Mount Colah, Sydney, requested that their swimming pool be positioned to complement their house and provide a continued open living area. In addition, the owners envisaged a space where they could relax and enjoy family fun or entertain, but they were also chasing a “wow” factor. They dreamed of an aesthetically pleasing, architectural design that worked in with family ergonomics. Their rectangular site was approximately 800sqm. “We were space-conscious, using contemporary symmetrical lines to allow for a quality amount of yard space for the family,”…

Have you ever dreamed of floating in the therapeutic Dead Sea? Maytronics Mineral Swim has created the exceptional pool experience, allowing you to bring a piece of this environment straight to your backyard. Mineral Swim minerals are sustainably sourced from the Dead Sea in Israel. They are 100 per cent natural magnesium-dense minerals that are added to the pool water as an alternative to the more traditional chlorine or salt pools. The high levels of magnesium mean the water feels softer and moisturising when swimming. The Mineral Swim system combines ozone purification with the magnesium-rich minerals, giving the pool owner healthier pool water. It will reduce the owner’s needs for added chemicals by up to 80 per cent, so you get a magnesium-rich pool with less chlorine and fewer harmful…

You’ve made the decision to install a pool. Now you need to decide what type of pool will suit your family. It’s a lot to get your head around, so we’ve put together this basic guide to help you find the best option for your property, lifestyle, budget and timeframe. ABOVE-GROUND POOLS Often chosen due to the quick turnaround between purchase and installation, an above-ground swimming pool can be installed within a day and used that night. As the name suggests, above-ground pools sit on top of the ground and don’t require land excavation. They are prefabricated, meaning they’re built offsite and delivered to your property complete. Above-ground pools can be either viny-llined or fibreglass and come in a range of shapes, sizes, colours and styles. This type of swimming…

CERAMIC AND GLASS TILES Ceramic and glass tiles are some of the more expensive pool interior choices due to their high-end look and high durability. Pool tiles are available in a wide array of colours, textures and sizes, giving the homeowner a chance to add personality and interest to their pool. Pool tiles can be small and laid in a mosaic pattern, or larger and grouted in any colour to either blend or contrast with the tile. Some people choose to use pool tiles just above the waterline to create the illusion of a tiled pool without the cost. While they’re initially a more expensive option than other pool interiors, tiles do stand out due to their glamorous and timeless look. VINYL LINER Vinyl-lined pools can be manufactured in a…

If you like to cook and entertain outside, a barbecue will be at the top of your wish list. You might go a step further and set up an “all the bells and whistles” outdoor kitchen. After all, with everything at your fingertips, there’ll be no more dashing inside the house for this or that, ensuring more time spent relaxing with family or chatting with friends. “Outdoor kitchens and well-equipped barbecue areas can be found in backyards all around Australia as people move out of their interior kitchens and into their gardens to entertain,” says Ben Farley of Bar-Be School. And what is the focal point of these outdoor kitchens? That’s right, the not-so-humble barbecue. Today, says Ben, families want barbecues that have the “wow factor”. If you want to…

With more than 1.2 million Australians owning a pool and council laws across the nation requiring many property owners to have a pool fence — even if retrospectively installed — the balance between legal compliance and great landscape design is becoming increasingly difficult to strike. With this in mind, here are my top tips for installing a pool fence without ruining the look and feel of your outdoor space. THE KEY IS IN COLLABORATION One of the best ways to get the fence installation right is to get a landscape designer involved from the start of the process to ensure that proper design considerations are factored into the installation plan. A landscape designer is going to look at things from a different angle and can help you explore avenues that…

With electricity prices on the rise, the costs associated with running a swimming pool are also moving in an upward trajectory. However, there are now many innovations in the pool industry that allow homeowners to operate their pools on significantly less energy. 1. One of the easiest ways to save energy and reduce your costs is to replace an ageing single-speed pool pump with a multi-speed (or variable-speed) pump which is more energy efficient and designed to reduce both electricity consumption and running costs.  2. The hydraulics of your pool also contribute to energy usage. As a general rule of thumb, the most efficient pool plumbing usually has larger-diameter pipes with as few bends as possible. 3. Replace your pool’s halogen lights with LED (light emitting diode) lights: LEDs use…

AN AUTHENTIC AUSTRALIAN WOOD COOKING EXPERIENCE The Billy Smoker open fire cookers stay true to a philosophy of bringing people together around fire and food. Designed to suit both indoor and outdoor living spaces, certain to create an impressive and memorable atmosphere. Clean and minimal form with elegantly designed componentry. Comes in three variants for different settings and install environments billysmoker.com SMALL BUSINESS AWARD WINNERS Crystal Pools has been named Champion Business of the Decade at the Australian Small Business Champion Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony held earlier in the year. Recognised as the ‘Oscars’ for small business the Australian Small Business Champion Awards is the only national recognition program for Australian small businesses. The award regonises excellent standsards of customer service, a long standing commitment to supporting the community,…

When embarking on your outdoor room design, consider the overall property and all necessary uses of the area. Take into account your lifestyle, such as whether you entertain in large or small numbers, and how often, as this will ultimately determine the size of your entertaining space. If you have a family, think about the future needs of the children. Don’t forget that if you make your home suitable for entertaining, your teenagers and their friends will be more likely to congregate at your home where you can keep an eye on them. Here are 12 top tips to consider when planning any outdoor room: 1. Preparation: Before commencing planning, always check council requirements and other authorities for any structure you are proposing. If works are to be undertaken near…

Converted natural surroundings, including unobstructed views of the harbour and magnificent existing sandstone walls, set the tone for the formation of this spectacular pool. The natural sandstone was excavated and smoothed to create walls on two sides of the pool area. The earthy hues and natural patterns in the sedimentary rock created the colour scheme and inspiration for the rest of the pool design. The completed project is nothing short of majestic, featuring high ceilings and exceptional ancient stone. Soft ambient lighting brings the area to life, conjuring imagery of an expansive cave or historic Roman bath. A large part of the brief was to highlight the natural stone and create an area that complements this unique feature. For two spaces that required more stone than what was naturally present,…

The simple yet superb design of this grand, 13m-long pool on Sydney’s Northern Beaches was inspired by both the style of the home and the expansive property belonging to a large family that loves to entertain. They requested a grand space that works in harmony with their house, and Kookaburra Pool Constructions has more than delivered on their vision. Before the pool was updated, the oversized farmhouse-style home was the central feature of the property and the existing pool was simply an afterthought. “We transformed the pool area into one of the most important features of the house,” explains Alex, owner of Kookaburra Pool Constructions. “It’s now an awesome open entertaining space.” The result is a traditional-style pool in terms of the shape, materials and colours used. “The way that…

This glass-tiled pool, sheer-descent rainwater feature that cascades into a raised spa, and surrounding landscaping all sit proudly at the rear of a beachfront Brighton property in Victoria. Kiama Pools & Landscapes executed this stunning pool and landscape project which was designed by Paul Bangay. The striking Bisazza glass-tiled 5m x 4m plunge pool and 3m x 2m spa provide a beautiful backdrop to a fantastic backyard entertainment space. “This lovely family requested an entertaining area for family and friends — a rectangular pool, spa, lounge, dining, in-ground trampoline and lawn,” explain Tim Sprague and Stephen Lloyd, co-owners of Kiama Pools & Landscapes, who brought Paul’s sophisticated design to life. Kiama Pools & Landscapes constructed the entire entertaining space — a beautiful garden that includes the in-ground trampoline, alfresco dining…

It’s difficult to believe that you’re still in Sydney when visiting this enviable property, located in the Hills District and home to a stunning custom-designed pool that was specifically designed to fit in with the amazing sprawling residence. Set on a gorgeous rural site, the rectangle-shaped pool, designed and built by Aquastone Pools and Landscapes, can be seen from all of the internal and external living areas. “The owners wanted a resort-style pool that would be a major feature of the home, set on acreage,” explains Gavin Bazley of Aquastone Pools and Landscapes. “This pool sits in tightly against the home’s rear perimeter so that it can be enjoyed from all main living areas. The family has three young boys, so they also wanted their pool to be enjoyed with…

Enjoying long summer days and nights through the creation of a consummate wet and dry entertainment area was a priority for this young family. Designed by COS Design and built and installed by Domain Pools, their large pool is complete with swimout, ledge, spa and deck area and delivers fun for all ages. High-end finishes continue to an expansive undercover entertaining area, which houses an open fire and outdoor kitchen featuring an intricate crazy paving feature. Plantings frame different zones while also providing privacy. As a highlight, the project incorporates various products from Granite Works, including bluestone coping with a 100mm drop-down face, a bluestone crazy paving feature area in front of the fireplace, and bluestone block water spouts reaching into the pool. All bluestone was produced to custom sizes…

A self-cleaning pool allows you to spend more time enjoying life while your pool cleans itself. Your pool will also be more efficient to operate and more enjoyable to swim in because of the increased circulation benefits. Owning a pool has never been this easy. Not all self-cleaning pools are the same. The QuikClean range of in-floor cleaning systems feature advanced technology, have been developed for Australian conditions and are proven in even the most demanding circumstances. The focus of a QuikClean system is you. Three superior systems, all with unique features and advantages, are designed to suit your unique pool and lifestyle requirements. Whether you have a heavy-debris site, want the latest look or value genuine energy efficiency, QuikClean has something for you. Carefully consider which features are important…

An automatic pool cleaner removes a great deal of debris from the floor and walls of your pool. There are four kinds of automatic pool cleaners on the Australian market: suction, robotic, in-floor and pressure cleaners. But how do you know which one will be right for your pool? We’ve asked Waterco for a rundown of the features and pros and cons of each type. SUCTION Suction cleaners are one of the most popular kinds of cleaners on the market. They are fixed to the pool’s skimmer and operate on the suction created by the pool’s pump, acting like an underwater vacuum cleaner. They are also attached to your pool’s filter system as they need to deposit leaves and larger debris in the skimmer box, and the finer sediment is…

Adding character and style to your outdoor space can be achieved with authentic natural stone. The matchless variations of colour and texture within stone will provide a classic look to outdoor areas that is visually interesting and impossible to replicate, making it unique to your space. Stone is a safe and appropriate surfacing material for hard landscaping that will not fade in extreme weather or wear under general use, remaining attractive and solid for years to come. And being a product of the earth, it is naturally eco-friendly and recyclable. “One significant benefit of using natural stone is the adaptability of the product to suit any home design, whether contemporary or traditional, providing a long-lasting, value-adding finish to the home”, says Andrew Lotter, Outdoor Product Manager of Amber Tiles. An…

The health hazards associated with early-20thcentury swimming pools without modern forms of sanitation are well documented. Simply replacing dirty water, the common solution “back in the day” did nothing to halt the formation and growth of algae and harmful bacteria. The obvious need for more effective pool sanitation methods led directly to the development of the first chemical form of sanitation, chlorine/bromine. Variations of this basic solution are still in use today as chlorine remains the most popular solution when it comes to reducing the levels of microorganisms and pathogens (including bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoans and algae) in pools. However, for many years, pool owners and users have complained about allergies such as asthma, eczema and eye irritations that can be triggered by chlorine. Today, the focus of the swimming…

Swimming pool covers used to be as simple as a piece of plastic stretched across the surface of the water to keep leaves, dirt and other debris from being blown into the water. But as technology has advanced, so too have pool covers improved. Today, not only do they form a barrier to debris, they also save you money by preventing evaporation and chemical loss as well as maintaining water temperature. THE EVAPORATION CHALLENGE Evaporation is likely to be the biggest source of energy loss in your swimming pool. Approximately every millimetre of evaporation equates to one litre of water per square metre, resulting in a potential loss of thousands of litres of pool water per season. “Enclosing your pool reduces evaporation, meaning you’ll spend less money and time topping…

While diving in for a swim may be the last thing on your mind during the colder months, this doesn’t mean you can neglect your pool entirely. Here is a rundown of some things you can do to ensure your pool is ready to jump right into when the warm weather returns. WHY SHOULD YOU PREPARE YOUR POOL FOR WINTER? Chances are you won’t be taking a dip too often in the next few months. This inactivity can leave your pool vulnerable to a build-up of algae or dead leaves and other debris. Frost can also cause strife. Sure, our Aussie winters might not seem chilly compared to other countries such as Canada or Switzerland, but our lowest temperatures can still damage pools unless we take a few precautions. HOW…

The relaxed vibe of this outdoor oasis was created by John Storch, principal of A Total Concept Landscape Architects and Pool Designers, who was commissioned to design the swimming pool, cabana, entertaining deck and gardens of this Sydney property. The alluring yet understated glass tiles used in the geometric-shaped swimming pool contrast beautifully with the blonde sandstone paving of the external paved areas, while the timber cabana floor is a perfect match for the decking of the main entertaining area. A quality internal, external and in-pool sound system, together with all electrical components including lighting, irrigation, pool heating, lights and swim jets, are all linked to the electrical switching system in both the cabana and main residence. A special feature of the pool is the water feature and stepping stone…

This stylish, fully tiled courtyard pool and spa is designed and located to be the central feature of this home, framed by three wings of the house and a tennis court beyond. The central positioning of the pool provides a glamorous water feature both night and day, and is just steps from the tennis court for a dip after a game or a spa to relax weary bones. “Clever design on the tiered sloping block has ensured that the house, pool, spa and tennis court are perfectly positioned, both aesthetically and functionally,” explains Chris Jackson, managing director of Aquarius Pools. Blackbutt timber decking, Yarrabee Sinai limestone paving and white pool tiles blend beautifully with the coastal sandstone used on the house. The limestone coping is sandblasted with a 50mm dropdown…

Crystal Pools has completed yet another exceptional pool build that makes the alfresco area the centrepiece of this custom-designed home. Inspired by resort-style Balinese villas, the 9m-long pool can be seen from nearly every room in the house. As Crystal Pools worked in conjunction with the homebuilders and Oak & Orange interior designers, this custom-designed pool was able to be swim-ready as soon as the family moved in. The owners wanted custom choices on every finish and detail of the pool and build, so installing an exceptionally high-quality pool was essential as the house wraps around the central outdoor entertaining area. The result is the ultimate entertaining zone. The clean lines of the simple geometric pool design are a timeless addition to this residence. It is a pool with something…

Not too many good things came out of 2020, but the highlight for the Franklin Group team was the beautiful pool and landscape the company created for iconic home renovation television show The Block. Renovated by Sarah and George, House 2 in Brighton is a 1940s period home with modern design features and a modern rectangular plunge pool, just 5m x 1.8m, which was inserted into a very tight space. “The idea of this design was to maximise the small space that we had,” explains David Franklin, director of Franklin Group. “It had to have places to sunbake, sit and entertain. As well as all of this, we had to create a beautifully lush garden in an urban environment.” In its design concept, the Franklin Pools Australia team was inspired…

The Spa Electrics iRIS lighting controller will completely transform the way in which you use your outdoor space. The hardest decision will be choosing between the stunning colours and multi-colour modes. Sit back and enjoy tranquil blues and whites, upbeat disco modes or the beautiful colours of the Australian sunset. Personalise your pool with the unique brightness control feature: select between various levels of brightness for the perfect lighting effect to complement your outdoors. Experience control from anywhere in your home with the iRIS’ long-range RF; controlling you pool lights has never been easier. Simply pick your desired colour on the iRIS’ sleek and slimline touchscreen remote and the smart technology will do the rest for you. Are you ready to take illumination one step further? Spa Electrics has enthusiastically…

Set beautifully into rural surroundings, this freeform pool sits on a hill with an enviable outlook. Natural stone paving and timber decking have been chosen to complement the style of the pool and fit gently with its environment. Castlemaine random stone paving is the perfect choice for this project with its warm, earthy tones of brown, gold and terracotta. It’s sourced from the original Castlemaine & Stone Quarry in Central Victoria — one of only a few local quarries still producing. This iconic stone has been mined since 1953 and has truly stood the test of time. It’s a popular choice due to its durability, gorgeous colourings as well as its availability in so many forms. It’s also slip resistant and salt tolerant, which is why this unique stone is…

Maintaining the crystal-clear appearance of glass pool fencing is easy with EnduroShield protective glass treatment. EnduroShield creates a protective barrier that stops contaminants soaking into the glass. Instead, water and contaminants bead up on the protected surface and are easily wiped off with a damp microfibre cloth and mild detergent. EnduroShield keeps glass cleaner for longer, significantly reducing cleaning time — and not having to clean your pool glass so often saves time, money and water. Untreated glass surfaces are porous and absorb contaminants, resulting in glass that is etched and discoloured. Along the coast, glass is particularly susceptible to salt spray, which quickly leads to a build-up that makes it appear hazy. Pool chemicals, chlorine and general air pollutants can also discolour glass, ruin the aesthetic, and make it…

The pump is the heart of your swimming pool’s filtration system; without it, your pool would lose its sparkle and soon turn green. Choosing the right pump for your pool will ensure that you experience fewer problems, more efficient energy use and lower running costs — not to mention better pool water clarity. Whether you’re after a pump for a new pool or a replacement pump for an existing pool, there is a range of energy-efficient models from which to choose. Many incorporate the latest technology to deliver the right combination of performance and energy savings. WHAT TYPE OF PUMP? The first step in choosing such a pump is to determine the volume of your pool. Match the figure to a pump which will, ideally, pump all the water in…

Being able to use your swimming pool throughout the year should be a goal for pool owners who want to gain maximum returns on their investment. Installing the right pool heater can extend your swimming season by up to four months and beyond. Today, trans-seasonal pool heating is becoming even more commonplace, with a range of pool heating solutions to choose from, depending on your budget, location and lifestyle. Creating and maintaining the ideal pool temperature doesn’t come naturally. While pool water predominantly hovers somewhere around the 18-20°C mark, it takes a designated heating system to bump it up to comfortable levels — around 25-29°C. There are three main heating options to choose from: solar, gas and heat pumps. SOLAR Undeniably the most environmentally friendly option of all, solar pool…

Thanks to advances in technology, pool ownership is today easier, simpler and more cost-effective than ever before. From programmable cleaners, automatic lighting and heating, water features and swim jets to chemical dosers that automatically control the pH and pool water sanitisation and automated pool covers, there is an automatic device — or devices — to suit all needs. These can significantly cut the time you spend on maintenance while, as a bonus, they also reduce your energy and chemical use. Automation has now reached the level where you can connect all your pool devices to a central control and manage them according to your personal needs. And thanks to improvements in wireless connectivity, the range of remote controls has broadened, which increases the appeal of these systems. CHEMICAL DOSING One…

Water is a valuable resource, particularly in Australia where the ravages of drought and flooding are common. Pool owners need to consider water use carefully and do everything possible to reduce water waste. When it comes to residential pools, there is a lot we can do to save this precious commodity. 1. Make frequent use of your pool cover as this will reduce water loss due to evaporation. 2. Take time out to search for and repair leaks in either the pool equipment or the pool’s structure as even the smallest of leaks can represent a substantial waste. 3. Fountains and waterfalls might be aesthetically pleasing, but the effect of aeration loses a significant amount of water to evaporation. Switch them off when it’s not necessary to have them on…