Table of contents for No. 35 in Poolside Showcase

SPLASH INTO SUMMER Finally, some warm weather to make the most of your outdoor space. And if you’re lucky enough to already have a pool, it’s the time of year when you’ll get calls from every long-lost friend or family member on a hot day, eager for a splash! However, gone are the days when swimming was restricted to summer. For most pool owners, the shoulder seasons are just as fun as hot summer days. Technology and clever products can extend the swimming season by making it less expensive to heat the water. Think energy-effective heating such as variable-speed heat pumps and pool automation technology that allow the use of different heaters to turn on when required based on the weather, the amount of sunlight and the price of utilities.…

Every pool owner aims to have a sparkling clean pool. Not only are good looks important, but sparkling clean pool water is equally as important for the safety, health and mechanical integrity of the pool and its equipment. Getting that beautiful pool water involves dealing with the two major areas, which must work together: 1. FILTRATION: This is the process of removing particles from the water. Most of these particles are individually smaller than the human eye can see, but in volume will cloud the water. Depending on the filtration system and media used, the particles will usually be filtered down to 20 micron or less. The smaller the micron rating, the better the pool water will look. 2. CHEMISTRY: This is vital to manage scaling, discolouration, comfort, pathogen levels…

The SPASA Awards of Excellence showcase achievements in construction, design, manufacturing, supply, products, retail and service. The annual awards acknowledge the best, boldest and most creative in the swimming pool and spa industry. In the following pages, we have put together a snapshot of some of the gold-winning entries from the Victorian and Tasmanian awards for 2022. POOL OF THE YEAR AND CONCRETE POOL OVER $200,000 Striking Constructions/Landart Landscape Design & Construction This curved infinity-edge and wet-deck pool features an impressive sunken lounge with swim-up bar, accessed over the beach area via five floating-effect steppingstone pavers, tiled bar stools and a custom round, green, roof pergola. The pool includes an internal infinity-edge, wet-deck, seven-seater spa with custom rolled seats and a herringbone brick feature wall, with six custom feature waterspouts.…

This outstanding contemporary custom design was provided by the clients, with Norfolk Pools asked to advise on features that could be added to lift the ambience and finish in a subtle and stylish way while achieving something a little different. A main feature of the house, the pool sits in a large courtyard space and incorporates both geometric and freeform lines to create a contemporary impression. The 13m-long pool, designed by MHDP Architects, distinguishes itself from all others with its impressive amphitheatre that meets a 4m-long acrylic window, complete with bubblers and a fountain. This flow is embraced by the rounded end of the pool and custom spa. A 2.4m water curtain sits above the pool, falling from the first floor of the house, while Laminar LED jets are positioned…

AT A GLANCE Pool built by: The Mahony Group Pool designed by: Gartner Trevato Architects Size of pool: 7m x 3m Filtration: Astral Coping: Millboard Smoked Oak decking Tiles: Artisan Exterior Devonport Pavers: Off-form concrete steps Decking: Millboard Smoked Oak decking Fence: Powder-coated aluminium blades Landscaping: The Mahony Group, coastal planting scheme supplied by Exotic Nurseries Outdoor furniture: Off-form concrete daybed Set on a large waterfront block, floating above an embanked boat shed, this 7m-long rectangular pool in Bayview sits proudly above Sydney’s glorious Pittwater and offers stunning views for those indulging in a relaxing swim. The owners, a family with teenage children, enjoy outdoor living and dreamed of a peaceful place for both time out for relaxation and entertaining family and friends. The idea behind the design, built by…

Looking at this incredible outdoor project, it would be easy to imagine it’s part of a luxurious Queensland resort. However, for this home in Melbourne’s Beaumaris, Personal Pools worked in conjunction with award-winning building designer Chris Clout Design in Noosa and some great clients to build a standout, curvaceous pool design that can be viewed from all four levels of the house and outdoor kitchen. When planning their epic 18m-long design, the homeowners requested everything the industry could offer and more in terms of full automation. The addition of acrylic windows above a wall of lush greenery, a raised spa, firepit, curved glass fencing, limestone paving and coping, as well as a large front pond makes this a truly standout project. Either by day or when lit up at night,…

Elevated above ground, this impressive glass-tiled infinity pool and inset spa have become the main focal points of the outdoor space of this inspiring estate. Built by Kiama Pools, the 11.5m-long rectangular-shaped pool has been constructed above ground. This elevated position creates a fabulous wet-edge feature wall, forms a fantastic visual effect and doubles as a pool fence. The solar-heated pool and spa require minimal upkeep, with features such as in-floor cleaning and full automation ensuring it is easy to maintain and allow the owners plenty of quality time to relax together. “At Kiama Pools, we pride ourselves on constructing high-quality swimming pools that not only look amazing, but are also built to last,” explain co-owners of Kiama Pools, Tim Sprague and Stephen Lloyd. “This stunning swimming pool constructed by…

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 has been proven in even the most demanding conditions. 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 a system for you. Carefully consider which…

When safety is paramount but aesthetics are also important, a glass fence is a winning solution. Tough Glass Worx designs and installs modern, safe and durable glass fencing and other glass products. Led by twin brothers Doug and Tom Graham, the award-winning company specialises in durable glazing solutions and offers a range of toughened glass products for new builds and multi-residential developments including pool fencing, custom mirrors, glass splashbacks, frameless shower screens and glass balustrades. “We work with many architects, builders, landscapers, designers and also directly with homeowners throughout Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula and other areas in Victoria,” explains co-director, Tom Graham. With more than 18 years’ experience in the business, the team have built a reputation for professionalism, quality and attention to detail. “We’re always on the forefront of…

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. “A fully-tiled pool is also often easier to clean…

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

If you like to cook and entertain outside, a barbecue will be at the top of your must-have list. If you entertain a lot, then you might go a step further and set up an “all the bells and whistles” outdoor kitchen. After all, having everything at your fingertips, which means no more dashing inside the house for this or that, translates to 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…

OUTDOOR COOKING WITH FLAIR The Brookvale from Lifestyle BBQs Designer Series outdoor kitchen range features the latest in contemporary design and functionality. The benchtops are made from engineered stone in a deluxe range of colours and the glass doors are available in any Dulux or Colorbond shade, perfect to match the colour palette of your walls or outdoor room. Noteworthy features that customers are raving about include the Australian-made five-burner barbecue and separate wok burner. Meanwhile, a “Nonno Peppe” woodfired pizza oven adds some traditional cooking flair and a beverage centre is on hand to help quench the thirst of the chef and their guests. lifestylebbqs.com MATERIALS MATTER The Kodo collection by Vincent Sheppard, created by Studio Segers, is inspired by the versatile possibilities of combining different materials to create…

The SPASA Awards of Excellence showcase achievements in construction, design, manufacturing, supply, products, retail and service. The annual awards acknowledge the best, boldest and most creative in the swimming pool and spa industry. In the following pages, we have put together a snapshot of some of the gold-winning entries from the NSW and ACT awards for 2022. POOL OF THE YEAR CONCRETE POOL OVER $200,000 AND CONCRETE POOL & SPA COMBINATION Transform Pools and Spas Pty Ltd This pool and landscape screams spectacular on another level of design and innovation. The owners wanted to maximise their time enjoying the pool with minimal maintenance, so Transform Pools and Spas built it to clean itself. The very modern and low-maintenance surrounds make it the perfect entertaining paradise. POOL OF THE YEAR (ACT)…

The SPASA Awards of Excellence showcase achievements in construction, design, manufacturing, supply, products, retail and service. The annual awards acknowledge the best, boldest and most creative in the swimming pool and spa industry. In the following pages, we have put together a snapshot of some of the gold-winning entries from the SPASA SA and NT awards for 2022. POOL OF THE YEAR AND CONCRETE POOL OVER $200,000 Elite Pools & Landscapes A pool to take your breath away. This project won the Pool of the Year for SPASA SA & NT as well as gold for concrete pool over $200,000. CONCRETE POOL UP TO $120,000 AND POOL LANDSCAPE DESIGN Elite Pools & Landscapes Resort elegance at home. This project features gorgeous mosaic tiles on a curved spill-over edge, providing a…

AT A GLANCE Pool designed by: Eco Design and modified by Equilibrium Pools Pool built by: Equilibrium Pools Size of pool: 8m x 4m Filtration: Astral CA300 media filter Chlorination: Viron EQ25 saltwater chlorinator Coping: Travertine with a 50mm rebate to the coping stone Tiles: Fully tiled Lighting: AquaQuip Evo Max lighting Landscaping: Matt Bandiera, Outdoor Escape Landscaping For their home in suburban Sydney, this client’s goal was to create an enticing oasis — a place to relax, recharge and enjoy. With their vision brought to life and built by Equilibrium Pools, this backyard swimming pool and landscape now offer the family a relaxing, yet functional space. With three teenage daughters, the owners wanted not only an outdoor area for entertainment, but also a functional space for their sloping block. The…

For this generous-sized property on the outskirts of Melbourne, Swimmore Pools has created a pool and spa in which the owners can relax at the end of the day and enjoy with their family, providing them with a space for many happy memories. “As owners of a flat, semi-rural block, the clients requested a pool that they could integrate with their home, with a seamless transition from their living area to the pool area,” explains designer Amanda Hebdige of Swimmore Pools, who was entrusted with the clients’ vision for their property. Initially, their brief was to extend the deck area to the pool, all at the one level. “However, in this case, town planning did not allow this and we were restricted on the finished level,” says Amanda. “We overcame…

Inspired by beautiful Balinese styling, this luxurious and elegant glass pool by designer Chris Clout creates a holiday at home year-round. Taking centre stage in this award-winning home, the pool is the jewel in the crown. Encompassed on all four sides by expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, it can be viewed from every area of the residence. It features three tiers of acrylic glass, including the 2m x 2m raised spa set into the 8m x 4m infinity-edge pool, with a full acrylic feature wall rising above the fully tiled water feature. The six-car garage features an acrylic viewing window that peeks into the sunken water feature, casting a brilliant natural glow into this underground area. Natural Pools & Landscaping also constructed a 2m-high water feature wall, an interior water feature wall…

Innovezza brings 30 years of experience in both pool construction and design so should your new pool call for engineering expertise, a structural pool inspection or a certification, Innovezza can provide advice and recommendations to ensure a structurally safe design. “We complete simple and complex engineering for pools as well as other related structures, such as decks, pergolas, sheds etc,” explains Innovezza managing director, Mario Aiezza. “We also complete compliance inspections, dilapidation reports and can help organise soil tests, site surveys, energy assessments and more.” The company aims to use innovative market-leading products and visceral engineering methods to provide clients with a commercial advantage. “Our drive to achieve these goals will deliver lower-cost solutions, sound engineering and quality service without the large price tag,” Mario says. ENGINEERING SERVICES INCLUDE: •…

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 very happy with our product over the years — we’re really proud of the way it looks, feels and lasts over time,” says manager Michael Kettewell. “All of our premix and drymix products now include mother-of-pearl shells and a complementary…

The pool industry has never been busier than it was in 2021. Some pool builders are still catching up with orders from last year. If you think the pool trend will slow now that we’re able to travel beyond our front fence again, remember there are other reasons everyone wants a pool these days: • Parents really want their kids to be active. There’s nothing like a pool to get them outside and off their screens• Families want a place where everyone can gather. More and more homeowners are adding a pool to help make their space the go-to where family and friends want to be• A pool is an investment in the value of your home• The latest heating technology means you can swim year-round, and enjoy pools in…

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 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 in…

Have you been dreaming of a calm oasis to put you and your guests in a relaxing mood when they enter your pool area? A waterfall is a simple and effective way to add a soothing feature to your pool, pond or spa. Waterfalls can create a calming, tranquil ambience with the gentle noise of flowing water and the sight of soft moving water. Not only do they create a spa-like atmosphere, they also are a delight for children — often becoming the catalyst for creative games and lots of family fun. ADDITIONAL FEATURES Some waterfalls have colourful LED lights incorporated into the design, which can be switched on to create mood. These inbuilt waterproof LED lights add colour to the cascading water and are operated through a panel or…

There are many steps involved in designing, planning and building a custom swimming pool. Often each stage relies on the previous stage being completed, so as expected it can be a bit of a process. We’ve asked Crystal Pools for a summary of the stages involved so you can understand what’s going on behind the scenes of your pool build. STAGE 1 This part of the process involves reaching out usually over the phone, email or web chat to a pool builder about your intentions. You’ll have an initial chat and some of your preliminary questions answered. “We openly provide upfront expert advice, before meeting at your property, even if you are still in the process of choosing a builder”, says Andrew Rothery, sales and marketing manager at Crystal Pools.…

The SPASA Awards of Excellence showcase achievements in construction, design, manufacturing, supply, products, retail and service. The annual awards acknowledge the best, boldest and most creative in the swimming pool and spa industry. In the following pages, we have put together a snapshot of some of the gold-winning entries from the SPASA Queensland awards for 2022. POOL OF THE YEAR AND CONCRETE POOL OVER $200,000 Norfolk Pools This stunning courtyard pool allows the owners to enjoy both relaxation and the ability to exercise. Generous sunbeds, a spa, an outstanding amphitheatre with acrylic window infinity edge and fountain, laminar jets and a misting machine under the bridge create a spectacular entertaining area. SPA OF THE YEAR Queensland Family Pools & Spas This multipurpose spa and plunge pool is the perfect solution…

Located on a large acreage in beautiful Red Hill, a small rural community on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, this modern resort-style pool and spa truly packs a punch in both form and functionality. The property has been developed primarily for a family to entertain, and the space was designed to connect their Mid-West American antiquity barn to both the dwelling and pool. The clients’ brief to Aquarius Pools & Colin Hyett Design was to incorporate a generous-sized pool and spa that utilises the sloping site, while integrating seamlessly with the current home and landscape. The result is a pool and landscape area that encapsulates the typical flow of Americana into the Australian lifestyle, which is the platform for all entertaining. The site provided some challenges for both construction and design. Ground…

When a pool and spa project is described as “the Rolls Royce of pools”, you know you’re in for something spectacular. Thanks to its size and various elements, this multi-faceted project is certainly no exaggeration. “Due to its sheer size and quality, this is the Rolls Royce of pools — it includes everything you could do for a pool,” says Laurie Jacobson, director of Laurie Jacobson Pools. For their vacant site, these owners, a large and busy family, requested a forever pool that would last as their family’s requirements change. It also had to suit their various needs, including a passion for water sports and daily lap swimming. In the design and build of the project, there were specific measurements that Laurie needed to adhere to, such as creating the…

Crystal Pools has completed yet another high-quality pool build that took out the top award for Concrete Pools up to $50,000 at the Master Builders Association of NSW 2021 Excellence in Housing & Pool Awards. In addition to this highly regarded accolade, this pool was also an integral part of a winning project that received another two wins and two finalist placings in the awards. The classic rectangular pool is tucked in the corner of this newly built, architect-designed home, designed by Chateau Architects + Builders, located at Glenhaven in Sydney’s Hills District. With an abundance of space for relaxation and play, the well designed and constructed pool has something for everyone and was built with a busy family in mind. Not only is the 8m-long pool well positioned for…

For this young family who love entertaining at home, Transform Pools and Spas has designed and built an amazing outdoor entertainment space to enhance their home, situated in a village in western Sydney, at the base of the Blue Mountains. In addition to the 9m-long pool with air bench and deckjets for relaxation, Transform Pools and Spas also incorporated a stunning pool house complete with a sauna, bar and pizza oven, for many fun-filled days and nights by the pool with a host of family and friends. Thanks to a seamless blend of skillful design concepts from Transform Pools and Spas and Transform Construction and Landscaping, this project not only fits the space proportionally but, most importantly, suits the clients’ needs. AT A GLANCE Pool designed and built by: Transform…

KHD Landscape Engineering Solutions love working with designers and clients who challenge themselves to bring out the best in their homes. Case in point — this major renovation to a 1930s Malvern bungalow, which presented myriad of 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 tiles…

So you’ve made the decision to install a pool in 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 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 off-site and delivered to your property complete. Above-ground pools can be either vinyl-lined or fibreglass and come in…

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 will ensure you experience fewer problems, as well as 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 the…

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 for Amber Tiles. An…

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 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…

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 devices 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…