Design your pool with expert design advice

If you're planning to build a new pool in your backyard, find out how expert pool designers like Denis Gordon from Brighton Pools can help you create the right design for your outdoor area.

What should someone look for in choosing a pool designer/builder?

They should look for creativity, experience and a bit of a flair for space: the ability to fit the pool into the right space to link in with how the customer wants to utilise their backyard for entertainment. 

Can you share a few low-cost pool designing/building tips?

Normally I do a basic design when I do the quote, but if they want a comprehensive layout from the pool-cum-landscaping then they'd need to use a landscape architect and I usually refer them to someone.

What's the biggest budget blow-out in pool designing/building?

At the end of the day there are so many bells and whistles you can put on a swimming pool, but they mightn't fit into the person's budget. It all depends on what they put on it and how big they make it.

What advice do you have for people budgeting for the design and construction of their pool?

People should be realistic in giving an idea of what their budget is. There's no point in going into a backyard and designing the Taj Mahal when they've only got the budget for a kennel. And that happens a lot.

How would you describe your own set-up at home?

I've got a long lap pool and also a very large spa, which is separate – they're in two different areas of the backyard. They're both concrete. I've got a very well-landscaped backyard, so they blend in very well.

What does it take to be a pool designer/builder?

The only way you're going to get experience is to work with a builder, get your licence (where required) and do your own work. You should check licence requirements for your state/territory before commencing any work. [In terms of design] A lot of people get ideas from magazines.

Contact a pool designer in your area to find out how you can create the right pool for your backyard: