A lap pool project where the horizon was the limit

In addition to the vanishing edges, uninterrupted views of the winery from the lap pool were achieved by raising the pool 1200mm on the lower side, making the pool wall the fence. On the upper side, an aviary-wire fence with treated pine posts and rails virtually disappears from the landscape. 

The challenges

However, the stunning view didn't come without its challenges. With the plant room sunken to minimise its intrusion on the landscape, the length of the lap pool meant friction losses in plumbing, so larger pipe runs were designed to achieve the required flow. As the site had previous fill, piers (strip footings) were also needed and the infloor cleaning system required careful planning and installation. 

The trimmings

The solid cover, which retracts into a separate in-ground pit, opens and closes at the flick of a switch either poolside or within the house via the Aqualink control system. The system allows all pool functions to be performed from within the house, or even via the office PC. George can even turn on the spa via his mobile phone. 

With natural gas not available at the site, a heat pump was required to heat the pool in a more cost-effective way than LPG. Foam was also installed around the pool walls prior to architectural finishes to circumvent high radiant heat loss owing to the pool being out of the ground.

Chris Jackson

Aquarius Pools

What was the brief?

It started with a lap pool and spa. After a test swim and greater recognition of the need for an absolutely low-maintenance and easy-to-use pool, a more specific brief evolved.  

Given an architect was involved in the project too, what were your key roles?

Much of our input was from a technical viewpoint, for example the hydraulics and filtration were more along commercial lines. We also used our past projects and experience to open up George and Warwick's minds to what could be achieved and helped develop new ideas. 

Are you happy with the result?

Yes - it's unique. It's minimalist and modern and makes an impact without being overstated. Successfully incorporating family, seated and play areas in a pool is always difficult, but I think we've achieved the best of all worlds.

What's your favourite part?

The great relationship between George, Warwick and Aquarius Pools and the patience in our approach is reflected in the end result. The vista and the way the negative edge of the pool lines up with the vineyard is also spectacular.

George

What was the brief? Did you have a particular look in mind?

Aesthetic, functional and environmental considerations needed to come together in harmony with the countryside and design of the house. Visually, I wanted an infinity edge that allowed water to cascade over the pool and other features that made the pool stand out yet still blend with the landscape.

How did you choose Chris?

My son Warwick, an architect, designed the house and pool, so we sought a pool builder with a co-operative approach. Chris had this, along with excellent service and creativity. I even visited his other projects and had some 'test swims'. 

What's your favourite aspect of the project?

Swimming towards the infinity edge every day and watching the sunrise. (The elevated height of the pool fill level is designed to be in a direct line with the eastern horizon.) The perfect position is a result of the success of the partnership between Warwick and Chris.

Are you happy with the overall look?

It's magic - I'm looking at it at the moment. It's priceless and unlike any other pool I've seen.

What were some of the challenges from your point of view?

There were the usual timeline challenges. In construction, there was a deliberate tendency towards over-engineering, with structural reinforcement introduced to prevent any movement and cracking later. Maintaining the pool's 25-degree heat was also a challenge.