Table of contents for No. 39 in Poolside Showcase

Introducing Aussie UnderCover’s new Power Lid System. Say goodbye to manual effort and hello to seamless convenience. After years of offering a semi-remote pool cover system, Aussie UnderCover has now unveiled remote-control operation for its Lid Frame, designed in direct response to customer demand. With more clients choosing heavier tiles or concrete finishes, in some circumstances, lifting the lid manually became a challenge. The new Power Lid Frame can now effortlessly lift up to 200kg, removing the need for weight restrictions or estimates. This innovation isn’t just for new customers — existing users can retrofit the system easily. The Power Lid also features a fail-safe backup for power outages and operates on a safe, reliable 24V system. While some manual assistance is still required for the pool cover itself, the…

Creating a successful pool and poolside entertaining area requires a holistic approach. The space should be inviting, comfortable and private — an oasis where family and friends can gather for swimming and relaxation. Achieving a sense of seclusion and tranquillity involves thoughtful design choices, from screening inward views to incorporating sound barriers, ensuring ultimate comfort and enjoyment. ASSESSING THE SPACE Before installing a swimming pool, it’s essential to analyse the area carefully. Physical factors such as orientation (north-facing aspects), prevailing winds, sun and shade requirements, and outward views all play a role. However, other considerations, such as noisy neighbours, nearby traffic, and potential privacy concerns are just as important. To create a truly peaceful environment, the principle of “if you can’t hear or see them, they can’t hear or see…

With a year-round love of water and swimming, these homeowners envisaged their future pool would be a showpiece they could admire from their California-style home, positioned on a special property with an abundance of fruit trees. However, rather than be situated in the backyard, the pool and spa were to be in the front yard, bringing this area of the property to life. The clients and their kids love to swim and will even swim in the bay every day of the year. In addition, they also wanted a pool and spa that could be used for leisure. “For their front yard location, the clients asked for a 3m-deep swimming pool and a raised circular spa with rolled edges,” explains Clinton Bourke, director of Award Pools Construction Group, which was…

This spectacular pool and spa create the ultimate retreat. Designed and built by Endless Pools and Spas, this outdoor space provides the perfect place to relax, entertain and enjoy the outdoors. The pool itself, a Sparkling Lake model, measures 7.6m x 3.6m with depths ranging from 1m to 1.95m, making it ideal for both leisurely swims and active play. Adjacent to the pool, the Lagoon Spa (2.1m x 1.8m) provides the ultimate hydrotherapy experience. Boasting 16 powerful spa jets and two high-performance spa pumps, the spa offers incredible jet pressure — superior to that of a standard in-ground spa. The combination of the two makes this backyard the ultimate place to rest and unwind after a long day. To ensure year-round enjoyment, the pool and spa are equipped with an…

By working closely with the clients to create their dream design through superior workmanship, while navigating an extremely difficult site, Urban Escape has created something very special for this Sydney family. The home owner engaged Urban Escape after having recently purchased this property on a steep Middle Harbour block, not only wanting to admire their incredible view, but also create a substantial outdoor entertaining space and pool that’s easily accessible from the home. All of this was to be achieved on a previously unusable sloping section of the site. This masterpiece is a true showcase of what can be achieved with clever design and skilful construction. A fully formed suspended pool perched on a steep section of land creates the perfect family oasis — a pool, spa and entertaining area.…

The serene suburb of Balnarring, Victoria, is a tranquil retreat known for its natural beauty, and here you’ll find a residential project that epitomises elegance and functionality. This exquisite pool, designed and built by East Coast Pools, is the centrepiece of a family compound that has become a cherished oasis for its owners. KHD Landscape Engineering Solutions proudly supplied the pool coping and pavers and is honoured to have played a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life. The owners are a couple who dreamed of building a family home to enhance their lifestyle. The inspiration for their pool’s design stems from a blend of contemporary aesthetics and the desire for a functional family space. Its standout feature is the harmonious integration with the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless…

You’ve made the decision to install a pool on your property — great! Now you need to decide what type of pool to install. We know there is a lot to get your head around, so we’ve put together this simple guide to the types of pools available so you can find the best option for your site, 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 vinyl-lined or fibreglass and come in…

Installing a pool fence is not just a safety requirement — it’s also a chance to enhance the design of your outdoor space. Whether you’re adding a new fence or upgrading an existing one, getting the balance right between functionality, compliance with local laws, as well as aesthetic appeal, can be tricky. But with the right approach, you can create a pool area that is both safe and visually stunning. Here are some expert tips to help you design the perfect pool fence. WORK WITH EXPERTS EARLY ON The key to a seamless pool fence installation starts with collaboration. Engage a landscape designer and a licensed pool safety inspector early in the process. This ensures that the design complements your outdoor space and meets all legal requirements. A landscape designer…

Savvy operators like Third Space Wimbledon — one of London’s premium members-only health clubs — depend on Waterco’s filtration and sanitisation products to ensure premium bathing and swimming conditions for its high-paying members. Designed by Aquascapes, the facility’s 6.3m³ cold plunge pool, 15-person Hydropool and stunning 25m communal pool have become a drawcard for the prestigious club, with Waterco not only providing peace of mind, but also Climate Care Certified efficiencies. It seems no matter where you go — Europe, America, Canada or Asia — chances are if you look into the plant room of luxurious aquatic facilities, you’ll see Australian equipment providing best-in-class solutions. waterco.com.au…

Finish your pool in style with Beaumont Tiles’ latest collections, featuring bold colours, rich textures, and nature-inspired finishes. Leading the pack is Crossland, the 2025 Tile of the Year — a stunning travertine-limestone blend that pairs earthy warmth with refined elegance. With tones like Dune and Match, it’s the perfect canvas for modern Australian interiors. Whether you’re planning a luxe reno or a subtle refresh, these tiles bring timeless design to every corner of your home. tiles.com.au…

From dirt, rock and weed to a luscious home resort, this project shows how a holistic plan and dedicated team of designers and tradesmen can completely transform a landscape. Every part of the project has been carefully considered to develop a sense of continuity and integration between the house and the landscape. The brickwork and stone from the pool and cabana tie into the materials on the exterior of this knockdown-rebuild home to create a unified look. The open cabana is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the serenity of the pool. It provides a space for the homeowners to relax and unwind with a drink in the evening or escape the sunshine during the heat of the day. A WC and shower have been built into the cabana…

This stunning backyard oasis delivers effortless resort-style living. Installed by the expert team at Pool Installations Australia P/L & Miami Pool Sales Melbourne, the result is an inviting pool area that speaks volumes about luxury, comfort and clever planning. From the moment Craig and Danielle engaged Wayne Gibson — CEO of Pool Installations Australia P/L & Miami Pool Sales Melbourne — things began to take shape quickly and confidently. With a referral from Craig’s father, who knew Wayne from their early days in Swan Hill, there was an instant sense of trust. A few site visits and consultations later, their backyard vision was well on its way to becoming a reality. “Our clients are a young family who wanted to bring a bit of resort-style living into their home,” says…

Victoria’s picturesque Mornington Peninsula is known for its rugged coastline, scenic lookouts and sunkissed holidays. Home of the iconic rainbowcoloured bathing boxes, it’s a destination favoured by generations of Australians. The picturesque peninsula is also home to Cahill Building Group, a boutique construction company known for redefining its residential landscape with spectacular properties like this one in Mount Martha. The architecturally striking modern farmhouse — designed in collaboration with DX Architects and Studio Griffiths — features a sprawling pool pavilion, fully tiled infinity pool, spacious 10-person spa, and state-of-the-art water management systems powered by Davey. “Davey’s pool, spa and irrigation solutions were a key factor in bringing this endeavour to fruition for our clients,” says project manager Jonathon Cahill. “It takes a lot to do a build of this size…

There’s nothing quite like the look of crystal-clear water shimmering under the sun. True pool beauty, however, starts below the surface — with the interior finish. Blue Glass Pebble Company creates award-winning pool surfaces designed to deliver exceptional colour, luxurious texture, and a dazzling sparkle, ensuring pools remain pristine and inviting all year round. Their exclusive blends of premium blue glass and New Zealand pebbles are fully premixed to guarantee batch consistency and uphold the highest quality standards. Each surface is engineered for a smooth, luxurious feel, vibrant colourfast shine, and long-lasting durability — setting a new benchmark in the pool industry. Originally developed by experienced pool builders who recognised a gap in the market, Blue Glass Pebble interiors were created to overcome common issues such as fading colours, difficult…

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 around the 18°C to 20°C mark, it takes a designated heating system to bump it up to comfortable levels — around 25° to 29°. There are three main heating options to choose from: solar, gas and heat pumps. SOLAR Undeniably the most environmentally friendly option of…

CERAMIC AND GLASS TILES Ceramic and glass tiles are among the more premium pool interior options thanks to their high-end appearance and exceptional durability. Available in a wide array of colours, textures and sizes, tiles give homeowners the flexibility to add personality and visual interest to their pool design. Tiles can be laid in a mosaic pattern or in larger sizes, with grout colours chosen to either blend or contrast. Some opt to use tiling only along the waterline, achieving a luxurious look without the full expense. While initially more costly than other interiors, tiles offer a glamorous, timeless aesthetic. “A fully tiled pool is also often easier to clean and maintain,” says Carl Yench of Europe Imports. “The initial costs of fully tiling are forgotten quickly compared to the…

The health hazards associated with early-20th-century 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 micro-organisms 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 and eczema and eye irritations that can be triggered by chlorine. Today, the focus of the…

The tiny but mighty Titan is designed by Spa Electrics to accentuate features like pool steps and Baja shelves, providing both safety and visual appeal. This exciting new product will be launching this year and will feature the company’s signature MultiPLUS LEDs. A small light with big features: • Titanium heat sink for maximum longevity• Quick-connect plug system• IPX8 waterproof rating• MultiPLUS LED (RGBW) and pool controller compatible• Designed and manufactured in Australia spaelectrics.com.au…

Choosing the perfect pool is more than just picking a shape or colour — it’s about capturing your lifestyle, your taste, and how you see yourself using the space. Whether you’re dreaming of poolside parties, quiet morning laps, or a safe splash zone for the kids, identifying your “pool personality” can help you better communicate your vision to designers and builders. We’ve broken it down into four classic Aussie lifestyle categories to help inspire your perfect pool style. THE ENTERTAINER Who you are: You’re the host with the most. Your weekends are booked out with barbecues, birthdays, long lunches and summer sundowners. Your home is a hub for friends and family, and your pool is centre stage. Your pool style: Think expansive, inviting and functional. You need a pool that…

A Total Concept Landscape Architects was commissioned to renovate the external areas of this stunning Manly property. It was to include a swimming pool and entertaining areas at the front of the property to capitalise on beach views, and an outdoor room to the rear to take advantage of the shade and provide shelter from strong north-easterly winds in summer. The intent of the pool design was to create an easy flow from the home to outdoor areas and to ensure the design was simple with clean lines so as not to detract from the main feature — the extensive views of Manly Beach and the northern Sydney coastline. A tired, existing swimming pool was demolished as part of the overall upgrade and in its place a new understated rectangular-shaped…

Tucked away in the sought-after suburb of Mosman, this 6.8m x 3m concrete pool brings a touch of modern luxury to a classic home. Fully tiled with glass tiles chosen by the client, its refined aesthetic enhances the home’s outdoor space, creating a haven for relaxation and entertainment. For those who love an active swim, two Badu swim jets provide a steady current, ideal for resistance swimming. Adding a dramatic yet elegant touch, a 7.6m-long upstand wall — standing at 1m high — features a 1200mm-wide cascading water feature. The soothing sound of water flowing into the pool creates a serene atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Entry steps have been thoughtfully designed to be both functional and stylish, adding a distinct character to the pool. As night…

This fully tiled pool and integrated volcano spa create a luxurious backyard statement. By day, the shimmering Leyla Miami and Leyla Istanbul glass mosaic tiles catch the light, but it’s at night when this pool truly comes to life thanks to an advanced lighting system from Spa Electrics. Measuring 8.6m x 4.2m, this elegant pool is a stunning blend of contemporary style and high-performance technology. The volcano spa, a 2.5m x 2.5m built-in luxury feature, offers the ultimate in relaxation, equipped with powerful spa jets and an innovative heating system to create a soothing retreat. The Leyla Miami and Leyla Istanbul glass mosaic tiles deliver a striking contrast, giving both the pool and spa an opulent finish. Surrounding the pool, Arlo Stone + Finishes Sand Travertine Hybrid Porcelain tiles provide…

Enjoying the lifestyle your pool offers is something you’ve dreamed of, so why not make it even better by talking to your pool builder about a self-cleaning pool? 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 features advanced technology, has been developed for Australian conditions, and is proven in even the most demanding situations. 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…

Pool filters are essential pieces of equipment that keep your pool healthy and safe as well as looking crystal clear. They remove unwanted debris and harmful pollutants, ensuring your pool water remains safe for swimmers. The type of filter you need depends on factors such as the size of your pool, the amount of time you’re willing to dedicate to maintenance, and your budget. The efficiency of filtration also depends largely on the size of the filter media — the finer the media, the higher the purity of the water. CARTRIDGE FILTERS Cartridge filters use cylindrical accordion-pleated filters to remove impurities larger than 30 microns. They don’t require backwashing, saving water and eliminating the need for a backwash line. However, cartridges need to be disassembled and cleaned periodically, and may…

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, pros and cons of each type. SUCTION Suction cleaners are one of the most popular kind 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 trapped…

Poolside is the ultimate setting for entertaining, relaxing and cooking. More Australians are transforming their backyard pool zones into fully equipped alfresco kitchens where food and fun go hand in hand. Ben Farley from Bar-Be School has seen this shift firsthand. “People move out of their interior kitchens and into their gardens to entertain,” he says. And poolside spaces are the perfect canvas. At the heart of these setups? “The not-so-humble barbecue,” says Ben. Families want barbecues that bring the “wow factor” and a poolside location adds to the atmosphere. Outdoor kitchen-style barbecues are growing in popularity, especially near pools where convenience and luxury collide. John McGran from Lifestyle BBQs says these modular units often include sinks, benchtops and fridges. “The materials used represent quality and durability and they look…

Pool maintenance can be time-consuming, but fortunately, pool automation technology has made pool ownership easier, more efficient and cost-effective. From robotic cleaners to automated chemical dosing systems, today’s pool automation solutions let you spend more time enjoying your pool and less time maintaining it. WHAT IS POOL AUTOMATION? Pool automation allows you to control various pool functions — from cleaning to heating and chemical dosing — through your smartphone or remote control. This means you can easily manage your pool and reduce the time spent on maintenance while improving energy efficiency. AUTOMATED POOL CLEANING: THE ROBOTIC REVOLUTION Robotic pool cleaners have become a must-have for pool owners. These devices use AI to map and clean your pool independently of the filtration system. Some models even let you control them remotely…