Melbourne pool design at home among the gum trees

Wisely, Dan decided to embrace the spotted gum trees on the property. "Their uniqueness and impact on the character of the space was a quality that needed to be acknowledged, rather than ignored," he explains. "Once it was determined that the construction could negotiate around the structure of one of the trees in particular, we decided to physically connect the pool design with the tree itself."

The outdoor pool lies directly beneath the tree canopy, which provides welcome shade in the hottest part of the summer day. "The surrounding hard elements were brought up to virtually connect with the base of the tree," Dan explains. "The idea of merging man and nature was pronounced by raising the level of the pool and its surrounds, to bring it closer to the graceful tree canopy."

Both sculptural and functional, the bold concrete forms literally wrap around the tree trunk, forming steps and a landing that seemingly project through the glass panels to the other side. 

In reverence to the luscious greens of the Eucalypt foliage, a restrained palette of whites and muted tones was selected for the pool space. The grey/blue of the granite water wall blends in with the natural surrounds and is owner Sharon's favourite feature. "It's beautiful at night," she enthuses. "LED light washes up the wall, creating an ambient blue haze that complements the shades of green and white in the design."

Overlooking a Eucalypt lawn, this Melbourne pool design incorporates an entertaining deck, made from recycled ironbark. "The variations in the timber reference the natural lines of the trunks and branches in the surrounding trees," says Dan. "As growing grass underneath these trees had proven to be difficult, Sharon decided to install an artificial lawn. This practical surface takes on the character of carpet in the lounge room for her kids."

The result is a striking example of how respect for existing elements, contemporary outdoor pool design and a small space can come together to create a stunning outdoor pool area.

Dan Gayfer, of Out From the Blue

What was the brief for this Melbourne pool design?

More than half the courtyard was to remain outside the pool enclosure, limiting the available space. The design of the outdoor pool maximises this space through its square shape, allowing comfortable movement around the pool, with a lounging area large enough to accommodate chairs and towels. The pool also needed to integrate with the surrounding landscape and architecture of the house.

What's your favourite feature of the project?

I like how we've taken the notion of 'blurred boundaries' to a new level. Concrete appears to emerge from the pool deck, wrapping one side of the pool until it explodes into a pool lounge. These bold concrete forms then project through the glass panels to the other side, literally wrapping the tree trunk and forming steps and a landing.

Were there any challenges in the design or construction?

Pre-construction was crucial, as the tree had to be in a stable condition and healthy enough to withstand temporary disturbance. Planning ensured that the proposed construction could negotiate its way around the structure. Careful design and engineering was required to accommodate the loading of the feature wall on one side of the pool and the concrete beam along another.

What's your impression of the finished product?

This swimming pool design demonstrates a number of unique elements that are driven by the two mature spotted gums on the property. A stunning granite-clad feature wall completes the design. It's composed of a wet and dry section, defining the boundaries of the pool. The stone was selected to allow the water to sit on the wall even when not in operation.

Sharon, the home owner

What was the garden like previously?

It was a country-cottage-style garden with roses and gardenias. There was a cubby in the corner and grass was struggling to grow.

What was the brief?

It's a tight space and we have two kids, so first and foremost we wanted to maximise the area. We also wanted something contemporary and modern with a 'wow' factor that would add value to the property.

What's your favourite part?

The granite wall in the water feature - it's beautiful at night. The pool's self-cleaning system is also great - there isn't a leaf in sight! The position of the pool is clever from a design perspective; even though it's an outdoor pool the trees provide direct shade in the heat of a summer's day.

Were there any challenges you encountered along the way?

Not really. After taking some photos, Dan presented us with some options, and we were on the same page from the start. It was an easy and seamless process. The only hiccup is that one of the big gum trees weeps sap onto the concrete, as it got knocked in the excavation.

Is the pool kid-friendly?

Our kids love it - it's the best thing we've done as a family and it's added so much 'lifestyle' value. We've had much more use out of our backyard since the pool was built! With the gas heating, the kids are comfortable swimming for hours, and they love playing games on the decking. The artificial grass is fantastic and is soft underfoot.

For a pool in Melbourne or elsewhere in Australia, call in the swimming pool design experts: