Table of contents for No 59 in Poolside

HOW CAN I UPDATE THE LOOK OF MY OLD POOL LIGHTING? Spa Electrics’ RETRO series is designed to replace the vast majority of pool lights in the Australian market. Be it surface-mounted or recessed, LED or halogen, the Spa Electrics range can retro-fit almost any light, bringing your pool back to life in vibrant colour. DO I HAVE TO LOWER MY POOL WATER LEVEL TO INSTALL THE NEW LIGHTS? The RETRO range is designed for hassle-free and fast self-installation, without lowering the water level or replacing existing transformers. Some exceptions apply — The Spa Electrics Retro Series Replacement Guide will detail these further. CAN I UPDATE MY OLD POOL LIGHTING WITH COLOURED OPTIONS? Yes, the RETRO range is available in blue, white and our stunning MULTI-PLUS LED array, featuring seven…

Perched on top of the 14-storey TreeHouse apartment building overlooking the Brisbane River and city skyline, this infinity-edge pool could easily be mistaken for being part of a luxury international resort. Developer Aria Property Group loves building different and amazing spaces for people to enjoy. Working in conjunction with architects Rothelowman, it provided a brief to Ken Jordan Swimming Pools to build a luxury resort-style pool that could be used by the many residents of the West End apartment complex. With its beautiful design and sweeping curves, the modern pool boasts a fast-flowing water feature that connects with the spa then overflows, creating a rapid-like water stream that ends its journey at the pool catchment on the lower deck. Not only is the area very user-friendly, it also has many…

This modern pool design forms the central feature in a minimalist landscape designed to strengthen the relationship between pool, gardens and entertaining areas. This exciting project was the result of an enjoyable commission by engaged clients who pushed the team to create a unique pool. “We were engaged at the house pre-design stage to ensure the landscape design, pool and gardens complemented the homeowners’ new home,” explains Adrian Swain of AEON Pools. “Our clients asked us to design a pool that was complementary to the house architecture and gardens. We achieved this by working with the home’s designer and landscape architect to coordinate the material selections to ensure the materials used complemented the house. The residence was delivered to a very high standard with all luxury inclusions, and the pool…

Creating an outdoor entertainment space that enhances the value of a client’s home and enriches the joy it brings them is essential for Equilibrium Pools & Landscapes. Every space that the company builds needs to be aesthetically pleasing, with a seamless flow between the pool, house and landscape. For these Mosman homeowners, a young Sydney family who enjoy entertaining, it was no different and involved a collaborative process with the company. “The homeowners envisaged a seamless space to allow for indoor/outdoor living and entertainment,” says Rob Rooney, founding director of Equilibrium Pools & Landscapes. To bring their custom-designed vision to life, the company worked within the constraints of the property’s existing old concrete swimming pool and spa that were tired, dated and needed to be removed and replaced. The Mosman…

These Freedom Pools clients were in search of an exercise and relaxation solution for the unused space beside their historic 1850 home, the Biscuit Factory, located in Coromandel Valley, South Australia. This was no ordinary residence; it has been transformed into a unique lifestyle home by a well-known Adelaide artist and conservationist, and has also featured in several lifestyle magazines including Vogue Living and SALife. They wanted their pool and spa to be practical, contemporary, and blend in with the historic Hills home, as well as the iconic native fauna of the Adelaide Hills. Their aim was to create a space that caters to their fitness goals and relaxation needs. “The historic nature of the house presented a significant challenge for our team,” explains Freedom Pools, who built and designed…

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 the outdoor kitchen. When planning their epic 18m-long design, the homeowners requested everything that 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 pond features at the pool and at a large front pond combine to make this a truly…

Technology is all about making life simpler and easier, and that is exactly what the technology of Lifeguard offers pool owners. The user-friendly app gives you full control over your pool system to view and modify filtration schedules and modes as well as allowing you to adjust set points as required. It can also be controlled locally if you do not want to connect through your home internet. It’s very simple to activate winter settings or prep the pool for a summer party, and for day-to-day maintenance, Lifeguard does all the work. GETTING THE CHLORINE BALANCE RIGHT With ChloroMatic Lifeguard, acid dosing, chlorinating, and even pool temperature can all be automated. The clever app will even keep track of salt or minerals and let you know when you are running…

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. The systems have been developed for Australian conditions and are 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…

When safety is paramount but aesthetics are also important, a glass fence is a winning solution. Known within the industry as the one-stop shop for glass, Tough Glass Worx designs and installs modern, safe and durable glass fencing and other glass products. Lead 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 a lot of architects, builders, landscapers, designers and also directly with homeowners throughout Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula and other areas in Victoria,” says co-director Tom Graham. With more than 18 years’ experience in the business, the team have built a reputation for…

Have you dreamed of an indoor pool to use in all weather conditions? With TPEC Pool Enclosures, you can have the best of both worlds with a customised, European-manufactured retractable enclosure for your pool, spa or terrace. “Our retractable enclosures are the ultimate solution for a swimming pool, allowing year-round usage, and when the weather permits, your pool or outdoor area can be opened within minutes, providing the most versatile, stylish and cost-effective solution for enclosing a pool, spa or outdoor area,” explains Marcus Tame, general manager of TPEC Pool Enclosures. A pool enclosure can reduce pool maintenance as less dirt and debris will enter the water, and pool running costs are also reduced due to less water and chemical evaporation as well as better heat retention. Pools with a…

DESIGNED WITH HOME AND CONTRAST IN MIND Thanks to durable die-cast aluminium, the Zebra collection By FAST is a timeless approach to year-round outdoor living. For even greater comfort, cushions are available for the seat and backrest, covered with fabrics that are suitable for outdoor use: resistant to water, to stains, to UV rays and to abrasions. cotswoldfurniture.com.au INCOMPARABLE SILHOUETTES Vincent Sheppard has extended its Frida collection with a dining chair — an eye-catching teak chair with tactile rope. The new dining chair maintains Frida’s incomparable silhouette and brings together tactility with a sense of lightness and Scandinavian design aesthetics. Also in this collection is the Frida lounge chair, which has a distinctive design with a spacious back, round frame and tactile seat. cotswoldfurniture.com.au DREAMY AMBIENCE The contemporary Maya lamp…

The pool industry has never been busier, with many pool builders fully booked for the next six to eight months. Over the last three years there has been huge demand for residential swimming pools, in addition to other investments within the home. A properly planned pool will bring years of enjoyment for your family and guests as well as increase the value of your property. Here are a few must haves for your new pool that should be considered and included at the planning stages. THE RIGHT LOCATION What’s the access point from house to pool? This is important if you don’t want dripping kids and friends walking through your house. Also think about when and where the sun will be hitting your pool. You want some sunlight to keep…

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 also 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 allowing the owners plenty of quality time to relax together. “At Kiama Pools, we pride ourselves on constructing high-quality swimming pool that not only look amazing, but are also built to last,” say co-owners of Kiama Pools, Tim Sprague and Stephen Lloyd. “This stunning swimming pool constructed…

By creating a seamless finish and removing all boundaries with the natural environment, this impeccably unique design in a splendid location is at the forefront of environment-focused exterior landscape design and construction. The large and beautifully green undulating coastal property in Kiama, on the NSW South Coast, is backed by rocky escarpments and edged by the natural boundary of weathered sea cliffs. The gorgeous site was presented to Artesian Pools, which was tasked with bringing the design ideas of the client and BHI Architects to life. The result is an infinity-edge, environmentally friendly concrete pool and spa in a geometric rectangular shape. “By maximising the benefits of a wet-edge design that visually blends without obstruction into the parallel lines of the horizon on the water beyond, the customer is offered…

Situated on Sydney’s glorious Northern Beaches, this 6m x 3.5m fully tiled swimming pool boasts a sleek and stylish design, and offers endless hours of fun and relaxation with family and friends. The modern design by Crystal Pools is both elegant and durable, and the sturdy concrete construction will ensure years of enjoyment. One of the standout features of the compact yet functional pool is the 2.4m x 2.4m spa, the perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. The spa is equipped with eight spa jets that offer a soothing massage experience for unwinding after a long day. In addition to the spa, the pool also boasts a full-length entry ledge, a convenient and safe spot for swimmers to enter and exit the pool. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just…

Sydney’s inner west, specifically the suburb of Balmain, is notorious for its compact blocks with tight access and unfortunately, this property was no exception. Although the limited size of this site would not allow for an overly large pool, a geometric-shaped plunge pool and spa proved to be the perfect match. Nick McCarthy, of Urban Escape Landscapes and Pools, explains that the homeowners had several requirements when it came to the design and build of their pool and spa. “The brief called for a pool that was not only ideal for entertaining and relaxing, but could also be used for aqua therapy,” reveals Nick. “Basically, a lot was to be fitted into a small space, without it looking too busy or cramped.” As the block and resulting backyard were small,…

Created as the display pool for McDonald Jones Homes’ Hermitage Grande Manor display home in Sydney’s Box Hill, this compact concrete swimming pool by Crystal Pools measures just 4.3m in length and 2.2m in width, making it a cosy oasis for relaxing and swimming. Situated in front of the alfresco, the pool creates a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living spaces. The tranquil and inviting pool area is a perfect place for entertaining, relaxation and fun with friends and family. The pool’s top edge features a striking white-glass waterline tile that enhances the design’s sophistication and elegance. These glossy tiles reflect sunlight, creating a sparkling effect on the water and giving it a crystal-clear appearance. Meanwhile, the curved corner of the pool adds a special element to the design.…

Technology is all about making life simpler and this pool and spa were constructed on the same level as the residence, creating an amazing feature visible from the living areas. But perhaps the most impressive aspect is that you can swim in the pool, relax in the spa and feel like you could reach out and touch the ocean below. This effect is created by a negative edge along the front of the pool, allowing the pool water to meet the horizon and vast ocean. The residence was already built and is located high up on the sloping block. “The slope of the block was the biggest issue with the construction of the pool and spa,” explains Trent Cantwell of Cantwell Pools. “Overall, the pool sits approximately 3.3m above the…

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. 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 costly to…

If you already have a pool or are thinking about buying one, there are many ways to help conserve water. The average domestic swimming pool holds between 20,000 and 60,000 litres of water. Once it’s filled, it should only need topping up occasionally. Just reducing the amount you top up and the number of times you do it can result in significant water savings. Water that is not filtered and balanced can become so contaminated it has to be drained away and replaced. That’s a waste. Poorly maintained pools may also require more frequent backwashing, so the best way to conserve water is to maintain the right chemical balance and ensure your filtration is adequate. There are many technical professionals across Australia who are SPASA members and are well-placed to…

Marketing terms like “low maintenance”, “automate your pool” and “more time swimming, less time cleaning” have long been used in the industry to sell the dream that owning a pool — arguably one of life’s biggest investments — can be easy. There’s no doubt that automation and advances in pool technology have transformed the way we maintain our pools. What used to require a trip to the plantroom can now often be achieved with a flick of a switch or download of an app. These innovations enable homeowners to enjoy a resort-like swimming experience in the comfort of their own backyard without the level of maintenance and attention required just a few years ago. Waterco, which started as a pool equipment manufacturer, is at the forefront of this movement. The…

One of the great advantages of in-ground concrete swimming pools is flexibility when it comes to adding additional features. Elements such as swimming pool steps and ledges can be customised to suit your individual needs when choosing a concrete pool. This flexibility is especially important with smaller properties where there are limited access options from the surrounds. SWIMMING POOL STEPS Steps can be designed to meet a great range of configurations and styles. A concrete swimming pool typically has three entry steps at the shallow end with rounded edges and corners for safety, but the actual design and layout largely depends on the needs of the customer. “Many also choose to extend the second step at depths of approximately 600mm as an additional activity zone,” says Crystal Pools sales manager,…

This family truly loves summer and the outdoor Queensland lifestyle. Their primary school-aged kids are water babies and swim most days. When they aren’t cooling down after weekend sport, their house is full of friends and family enjoying a swim and a barbecue. Therefore, their overall brief was to maximise the space to create fun for everyone in a true family pool. Originally, there was a 25-year-old freeform pool that had been cosmetically renovated to add a Balinese-style pool pavilion with a large tiled area around the pool. The old freeform pool was outdated, leaking and beyond repair. The design process evolved from simply replacing the existing pool to the realisation that a design meeting the clients’ “wish list” would make better use of the space. “Given that replacing a…

Crystal Pools has created a stunning oasis of relaxation and refreshment on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Measuring more than 11m in length and 3m in width, this lap pool features a sleek and modern design, with a gorgeous blue-glass-tile finish that shimmers in the sunlight. In addition to its luxurious design and features, the pool also offers breathtaking views of the Australian bush, and is strategically positioned to overlook the lush and verdant landscape, with towering trees and vibrant foliage stretching as far as the eye can see. Whether you’re taking a refreshing dip in the pool’s cool water or soaking in the warm and relaxing spa, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty. The view is maximised by the wet edge with a spillover tank for…

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 for 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 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 subtly around…

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 relaxation and entertaining family and friends. The idea behind the design, built by family-owned The Mahony Group, was to layer the construction to suit the long sloping block while creating usable and level spaces. For the project, outstanding features such as a knife-edge coping to the Pittwater side, Artisan Exterior Devonport tiles, and Millboard Smoked Oak decking and coping were incorporated. These features are all enhanced by a coastal planting scheme which perfectly aligns with the Northern…

General manager of Interlink Pools & Landscapes, Lincoln Courtney has a very personal attachment to this glorious outdoor project on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. In fact, it’s safe to say it will forever be part of his family’s memories. “I designed the pool for my family to enjoy,” explains Lincoln of this infinity wet-edge pool and spa at Whale Beach. “It was actually my house; our two young kids loved bombing off the spa into the deep end. Unfortunately, we had to sell the house during the pandemic due to financial restrictions.” Interlink Pools & Landscapes designed and built the entire area, including the 7m-long rectangular pool. “I always like a pool to fit in with the landscape and become a visual feature, and this pool certainly catches your eye from…

For this property, A Total Concept utilised a simple contemporary design style to create a space that incorporates everything a family could need outside, whether it’s for day-to-day living or weekend entertaining. “We have a small suburban backyard and wanted to create a total concept — an integrated design to include a plunge pool, outdoor room, lawn and garden in which our young family could entertain,” say the homeowners. Unfortunately, their existing space had no outlook and little privacy from neighbours. “So we bounded the entire area with a hedge using non-invasive bamboo to create a contemporary courtyard feel and achieve a stunning outlook from the home,” explains John Storch of A Total Concept. The design incorporates material colours that contrast with each other to add vibrancy and movement to…

The right pool and spa lighting can make the world of difference to an outdoor space, as these Queensland homeowners discovered. For this recently completed pool and spa project, Environ Pools opted to incorporate Spa Electrics’ Quantum (WN) Series lights, the ultimate underwater LED swimming pool light, to illuminate their space. With its superior performance and light distribution, coupled with robust construction and stylish looks, the Quantum WN Series is the only choice for concrete and fibreglass pools. Proudly designed and manufactured in Australia, Quantum (WN) Series lights provide market-leading brightness and efficiency by employing high-intensity Ceramic Light Engine (LED) technology and are available in blue, white and MULTI PLUS (RGB+W) LED options. The robust design is sleek and unobtrusive, with a transparent facade allowing seamless blending into any pool…

Curves are very on trend this year, however when it comes to executing design plans with gorgeous curves, quite often builders can run into difficulties sourcing suitable product to make the curved designs work in reality. In this situation, a perfectly round spa and oval-shaped pool required special curved limestone coping to create a perfectly executed look. The Belgium Blue limestone by SAI Stone is an ultra-high-density limestone that is safe for use around salt water. This limestone lasts longer and suffers minimal salt water-induced problems (especially with regular freshwater cleaning). This product is one of the few limestones that has been rated “exposure grade” when tested against salt water by the ASTM International (which is the standards organisation for testing and materials). “The stone is finished with a sandblasting…