Table of contents for No 61 in Poolside

Swimming pool design is evolving in response to wider changes in lifestyle, technology and environmental awareness. Today’s pool owners are looking for more than just a place to swim — they want a seamless, multifunctional outdoor area that enriches their daily lives. With a shift towards minimalist designs and the integration of advanced technology, 2025 is set to bring exciting innovations to the pool industry. To uncover the key trends shaping this transformation, we spoke with John Storch, director of A Total Concept Landscape Architects, for his expert insight. A holistic approach to outdoor living One of the most significant shifts in pool design is the movement towards a more holistic, property-wide approach. “Typically, we’re engaged to look at the outdoor areas as a whole, considering the entire property rather…

A striking statement of modern elegance, this custom-built pool by Norfolk Pools is the centrepiece of Zarma, a breathtaking Broadbeach residence. Inspired by the luxurious aesthetic of The Calile Hotel in Brisbane, this geometric pool seamlessly integrates with the home’s sophisticated open-plan design, offering a serene oasis within the vibrant Gold Coast lifestyle. Designed by Barlow Building and brought to life by Norfolk Pools, this 9m x 6m swimming pool exudes contemporary refinement. The homeowners — a dynamic young couple carving a name for themselves in the luxury building industry — sought a pool that would not only serve as a stunning visual feature, but also function as a space for both relaxation and entertaining. The result is a modern retreat that perfectly balances aesthetics, functionality, and the surrounding coastal…

A stunning blend of form and function, this custom-designed pool turns a challenging block into an extraordinary residential showpiece. Nestled in a suburban enclave, the aptly nicknamed Urban Reef showcases a modern interpretation of luxurious outdoor living. Designed by Contour Landscape Architecture and built by Equilibrium Pools & Landscapes, this rectangular 6m x 3m pool combines cutting-edge design with thoughtful craftsmanship to create a seamless connection between home, landscape and leisure. Tackling the Terrain The steep topography of the site posed significant challenges, with dramatic falls from the rear to the front of the block. Adding to the complexity, the location’s narrow street access made it impossible to position a crane onsite. These obstacles were carefully navigated through innovative engineering, expert project management and sheer determination, particularly when installing the…

To complete their property in the coastal Adelaide suburb of Henley Beach South in South Australia, these owners requested a pool that was easy to maintain and enjoy all year round with friends and family. Working with the owners’ design, TG Excavations & Unique Pools created a rectangular 9.65m-long pool adorned with several stepping stones to the deep end and an internal spa. But that’s not all. “We also built an outdoor pond with a tunnel that passed under the hallway of their home so it can be seen east and west from the hallway,” explains Tony Romeo, owner and operator of TG Excavations & Unique Pools. Surrounded by greystone honed concrete coping, the interior of the pool and spa are tiled in Santorini White tiles to reflect the cool…

This large 10x6m concrete swimming pool is the perfect family pool with multiple zones for all members of the family to swim, play and relax. The pool is lined with pebblecrete, giving it a natural, textured look and feel to the foot. Glass waterline tiles add a touch of elegance and sophistication, while the wading ledge with three bubblers offers a safe and fun place for kids to play. A 2.5m x 2.5m fully tiled spa with eight spa-jets is perfect for relaxing after a long day, providing a luxurious and soothing experience. To top it off, the pool has a wet slide to delight and entertain the children and their friends. Beneath the surface of this spectacular design is a beach entry — a gentle gradient or slop to…

Set within a sprawling rural retreat close to bushland, this stunning poolscape from Prestige Landscape and Construction is a resort-style masterpiece. The homeowners’ vision was an oasis that would allow them to escape the hustle and bustle of their busy lives and enjoy quality family time together. Prestige Landscape and Construction delivered with this thoughtfully executed, elegant space. The 10m x 4.2m rectangular pool, complemented by sandblasted marble coping and French pattern tiles, delivers both visual appeal and functionality. One standout feature is the curved step-off from tiles to artificial turf, a meticulous design choice that provides a low-maintenance and unique transition. The pool also features a children’s splash beach area, offering a playful, safe space for the kids to cool off. Prestige Landscape and Construction, led by Troy Stolzenhein,…

Situated in a historic village at the foot of the gorgeous Gold Coast hinterland, this Mediterranean-inspired pool is a breath of fresh air, and with its exceptional views, allows the homeowners to enjoy the high life – literally. Built out of the ground, on a very steep hillside, the pool’s construction caters for the sloping block. It was also inspired by the need to create a classic modern look to accompany renovations to the existing house. “The pool is 1.8m high out of the ground and built on a cliff, for a more open look, so that the owners can look out over the mountains to the stunning vista,” explains Mario Lukenda, director of La Vida Pools and Spas Qld. Designed and built by La Vida Pools and Spas Qld…

Waterco remains at the forefront of pool water innovation with Vitale Mineral Salts, a proprietary formula that marks the next evolution in pool water chemistry. “Exclusive to Waterco, Vitale builds on our range of mineral pool solutions designed to be gentle on swimmers’ skin and effortless to use,” says Waterco’s Water Treatment Product Manager, Heidi Tran. Vitale combines pure salt and premium magnesium to enhance your swimming experience by softening the water and creating a silky, luxurious feel. The formula’s natural properties also help relax tight muscles and gently soothe sensitive skin, making each swim both refreshing and restorative. “We only use high-quality salt that has at least 95 per cent pure sodium chloride and is non-iodised,” Heidi explains. “Unlike second-rate salt, which contains minerals and metals that can stain…

Nestled in the vibrant inner-city suburb of Prahran, this meticulously designed pool is the epitome of luxury, relaxation and effortless style. Created to complement the home’s modern aesthetic, the outdoor space provides a tranquil retreat for its owners — a young family looking to escape the urban rush without leaving home. Kiama Pools, in collaboration with Eckersley Garden Architecture, transformed the family’s vision into reality, crafting a 7m x 4.5m oval-shaped pool complete with a curved spa. Designed to be the centrepiece of the outdoor garden, this space is more than just a pool; it’s a sanctuary where relaxation, fun and family memories are created. “The homeowners wanted a pool that was not only visually stunning, but also practical for their busy lifestyle,” explains Tim Sprague and Stephen Lloyd, co-owners…

Nothing says luxury like crystal-clear pool water sparkling in the sunlight. However, achieving this look isn’t just about keeping the water clean with chemicals and cleaning systems; it starts with the pool interior you choose to begin with. Blue Glass Pebble Company offers a selection of award-winning pool interiors that have a luxurious texture and create a mesmerising sparkle. A combination of glass pebbles and New Zealand pebbles is fully premixed to ensure batch consistency and to maintain the company’s infamous high-quality control standards. “Builders and pool owners have been really happy with our product over the years; we’re really proud of the way it looks, feels and lasts over time,” says manager Michael Kettlewell. The company’s pool interiors were originally created by former pool builders who wanted to fill…

STOKED STAINLESS The Stoked Stainless Plunge Pools, handmade in Wanaka, New Zealand, offer a durable and versatile spa experience. Constructed from 316 marine-grade stainless steel, these pools are built to last. With two size options — 2.5m for 10 bathers and 3m for 14 — the plunge pools feature an efficient, electric heat pump for heating and cooling. The temperature range of 41°C down to 5°C is perfect for year-round use. Designed with wellness in mind, four massage jets, LED lighting and a clean, minimal aesthetic, this is a simple cost-effective solution. Additional features include Wi-Fi control and automatic filtration, making maintenance simple. Backed by a 50+50+2 year warranty, the Stoked Plunge Pool combines craftsmanship, durability and comfort. stokedstainless.com.au ELEVATE YOUR NEXT POOL PROJECT WITH GLASS POOL WINDOW Glass Pool…

Berry, a quaint small town on the picturesque and tranquil NSW South Coast, is a favourite location for Sydneysiders looking for a quick getaway or a relaxing unwind, and when the weather really heats up in summer, an Airbnb holiday house with a pool is a must. At this luxury Berry barn house, Barrier Reef Pools Sydney South was entrusted to install a pool for multiple generations to use and enjoy during their stay. The design chosen was the 12.2m-long rectangular Brooklyn spa/pool combination, a stunning one-piece fibreglass configuration that has been designed with the whole family in mind. With its square lines and designer looks, every family will be sure to love the Brooklyn pool and spa. The generous swimming area has been designed to be totally unobstructed, which…

This stunning pool on the northern side of the iconic Sydney harbour is a delight for the homeowners, providing the ultimate water-side lifestyle and free from any visual obstructions. A pool designed for opulence and comfort Designed to allow the owner to maximise their property and its stunning outlook, this pool and spa excel in opulence and comfort. The pool design was close to the heart of the owner, who had significant involvement in the construction process. A perfect choice of the Hisbalit Devonport tile allows the visual effect of the pool water to perfectly match the sparkling water of Sydney harbour. The pool is truly a tourist’s paradise in the secure setting of a private home. A Grey Travertine coping stone adds additional elegance to this very well-thought-through finish.…

Located in the serene suburb of West Pennant Hills, this custom-built infinity plunge pool sits gracefully within the bushland surroundings, offering a perfect blend of luxury and nature. Designed to be a tranquil escape, this pool provides a sense of connection with the environment, seamlessly integrating with the forested landscape. The clients, a young professional family with an active lifestyle, sought an outdoor space that would maximise the stunning views of their acreage while offering a private, resort-like area for family and friends. Their brief was clear: create a pool that respects the location and feels as though it’s part of the natural landscape, allowing them to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding forest from the comfort of their home. AEON Pools, led by founder Adrian Swain, collaborated closely with…

This stately infinity-edge pool brings beauty and function to a sloping coastal block, transforming the outdoor space into a year-round haven. Set on the Mornington Peninsula in the quaint suburb of Safety Beach, this custom-designed pool by Coastal Pools and Spas redefines modern luxury in outdoor living. Positioned on a sloping block, the project maximises the available space by creating a terraced approach that offers not only functionality, but also a striking visual impact. The owners, a family of passionate entertainers, wanted a pool that could be enjoyed by all family members while making a bold statement, even when not in use. Their vision was realised through the creation of a rectangular 11x4m above-ground pool, equipped with a full-length horizon edge that enhances the overall aesthetic of their home. The…

A contemporary renovation that has breathed new life into a once-dated pool, this stunning transformation in Sorrento is the perfect example of modern design and craftsmanship. Breeze Pool Projects has expertly renovated this large lap pool and spa combination, with every detail carefully considered to meet the needs of its owners. The result is a pool that perfectly complements the surrounding space, becoming the centrepiece of the entire backyard. The renovation involved a complete overhaul of the existing pool, which had suffered from structural issues and worn-out finishes. The pool was originally equipped with dark-blue tiles that were falling off, a Quartzon interior that had come loose, and coping that was in poor condition. Breeze Pool Projects stripped the pool back and fully tiled it with beautiful 48mm Origami Frost…

The geometric pool, boatshed and gardens of this exquisite waterfront property overlooking Pittwater combine to make a striking statement By day, the geometric pool reflects the surrounding gardens and the tranquil harbour. By night, it captures the light of the house and gardens, becoming a striking focal point. Together, the pool and gardens create a bold statement that enhances the elegance of this stylish waterfront home, showcasing the perfect marriage of architecture, design and nature. The project was designed by A Total Concept and the vision was brought to life by The Mahony Group, which built the pool and surrounds. The Mahony Group’s attention to detail in construction, thoughtful plantings and commitment to ongoing care and maintenance ensured a flawless result with minimal disruption. Access to the home was limited…

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 space 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…

With land at a premium in Melbourne’s trendy Collingwood, the owners of this warehouse conversion looked to the sky to expand their home. They added a second storey with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living area and a contemporary outdoor terrace. Gorgeous travertine pavers surround the pool and flow from the terrace into the home. The couple chose the 5.3m-long x 3m-wide Tuscany pool by Miami Pools. Being fibreglass, the pool was easily and quickly installed on the second storey of the inner-city property. The material is low maintenance, never has to be repainted as the colour is built into the shell, and is normally half the cost of a concrete pool. A swim spa kit has been incorporated into the design with 12 jets so the pool can also…

One of the most common questions asked of pool builders upfront is how much does a pool cost? People who come to Crystal Pools are also curious about how a pool adds value to their home, beyond just the lifestyle factor. Did you know that according to Realestate.com.au, “swimming pool” is Australia’s most popular search term when looking to buy a house. That rings true with the folks at Crystal because for more than 70 years, they’ve seen so many Crystal Pools owners using the pool as their lead marketing photo when later selling their home. Adding a pool to your home can certainly be considered an investment. So it’s only natural to wonder how you might expect a return beyond the benefits you, your friends and family enjoy while…

The Gold Coast site chosen for this stunning infinity-edge pool, two acres in Upper Coomera on the side of a hill, exudes an abundance of peace and tranquillity. However, in late December 2023, the story was very different, with a tornado passing through and either destroying or badly damaging many of the surrounding homes, including this one. The pool, however, stood strong, and offered the family some enjoyment as they rebuilt their lives. The homeowners, Matt and Missy Emery, also own Driftwood Pools, so it was only natural they would take on the design and build of their new pool. “We created this pool as part of a huge home renovation project, and also to kickstart our new business — Driftwood Pools,” explains Matt, who has worked in the pool…

Nestled in the hills of Mt Eliza, Personal Pools has created a breathtaking outdoor oasis that is both a visual spectacle and a functional space for relaxation and entertaining. The clients’ vision was clear: to create an outdoor space that allowed them to enjoy the beauty of their surroundings year-round while staying true to the charm of their heritage home. Personal Pools carefully considered these requirements, resulting in a pool that combines modern elements with the timeless elegance of the dwelling. The curved negative edge adds a dramatic touch, perfectly framing the stunning views of Port Phillip Bay. The pool also features a separate spa, offering two distinct spaces for the family to enjoy, whether it be swimming laps in the pool or relaxing in the spa. The design of…

Nestled in the picturesque suburb of Fairlight, this stunning pool and spa combination designed by Crystal Pools exemplifies the perfect blend of luxury, functionality, and sophisticated design. Built in collaboration with Sydney Beach Homes, this outdoor sanctuary maximises the use of space while ensuring an unparalleled swimming and relaxation experience. Measuring 7.63m x 2.695m, the main pool is generously sized to accommodate both leisurely swims and invigorating aquatic workouts. A 3.78m x 1.9m spa is equipped with nine powerful Venturi jets that offer a soothing retreat for unwinding after a long day. The beauty of this project lies not only in its aesthetic value, but in its practical design elements. The pool and spa area has been carefully integrated with the home’s layout to ensure a harmonious flow between indoor…

This family man dreamed of a pool that suited his whole family, and the Corebree design that he and his family chose is exactly that. Open, luxurious and spacious, the 10.5m-long pool has ample room for both leisure and fitness, while the addition of an adjoining Space spa and attached fully tiled wet deck water feature with bubblers adds to the wow factor. Accompanied by an amazing light wall to create an enthralling backyard ambience, this pool and spa combination looks stunning both day and night with its incredible light feature. “We always wanted a pool, but we knew we wanted something different,” explains the homeowner. Following extensive research online to obtain ideas, he discovered Rainwise Pools Melbourne, who were engaged to build this pool and spa as part of…

Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula is known for its rugged coastline, scenic lookouts and sun-kissed holidays. Home of the iconic rainbow-coloured 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 and…

Nestled in the rolling hills of Kenthurst, this stunning new pool and spa, designed and constructed by Jade Swimming Pools, offers a luxurious escape for a young, active family. Combining modern design with the natural slope of the land, this outdoor haven not only enhances the property’s aesthetics, but provides a private retreat for recreation and entertainment. Located on a sloping block, this 11m x 5m pool and accompanying 4sqm spa are perfectly positioned at the lower level of the property, ensuring a seamless integration into the surrounding landscape. The pool was designed by Matthew Daniel of Jade Pools, who worked closely with the clients to ensure the finished product complemented the space while maximising its views. “We wanted to make sure that the pool was functional, but also that…

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 feature advanced technology, have been developed for Australian conditions, and are 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…