Modern pool design with a Japanese touch

Everyone knows that relationships involve compromise. However, the owners of this Noosa pool were happy to be an exception when their different pool 'wish lists' were merged successfully in this stunning pool design.

"The shape of the land, the limited space and the different wishes of my wife and I required us to put a lot of thought into the design of the pool," says the owner, Walter. "My wife wanted a wet-edge pool, while I wanted a low-maintenance pool with a jet stream for exercise and a solar heating system."

Designer Rob Oliver, of Pool Fab Swimming Pools, said the original plan was to put a lap pool down the side of the house. "However, the width required for a lap pool wasn't possible, so we located it at the back of the house," he explains. Pool Fab Swimming Pools were contracted to design the pool and ensure that it enhanced the stunning view of the golf course beyond.

The pool itself is eight metres in length and four metres wide. Two powerful swim jets fulfil Walter's desire for exercise in the pool, while the size and aesthetics offer a stunning setting for relaxation and entertainment. The negative edge running along one side of the pool allows it to blend in seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, maximising picturesque views over the neighbouring golf course. 

Adding a little extra flair to the pool design is the water feature wall at one end. Covered with Millennium feature stone, it includes a 1200 millimetre water blade, where variable flow control offers the option of a strong sheet of water running into the pool, or a quiet trickle running down the rock.

Consistent with Walter's wish list, the pool is solar heated, extending its use throughout the year. A special multi-cyclone pre-filtration system also saves more than 7000 litres of water each year.

With strong timber decking and frameless glass fencing, the pool design is in harmony with the surrounding Japanese-influenced landscape. It's a classic style that breathes effortless sophistication, and the couple are thrilled. "We love our pool - it turned out better than we ever imagined," says Walter.

Rob Oliver, from Beach Homes with Pool Fab Swimming Pools

Are you happy with the overall result of the project?

Yes, it's absolutely fantastic. Everything from the frameless glass fencing to the water feature and deck surrounding makes it spot on - and a great place to chill out.

What's your favourite feature?

The water blade feature. Its variable flow control offers the option of a strong sheet of water running into the pool, or a quiet trickle of water running down the rock. It can also be turned off.

Were there any challenges in the design or construction?

Bringing everything together in the design and incorporating all the desires of the clients was a challenge. The pool's location was also tricky, as it needed to be positioned so that it didn't obstruct the view, but became part of the landscape.

How involved were the owners in the design process?

Walter was very specific about what he wanted, and was involved in the design process right down to the meticulous details.

Walter, the Homeowner

What did you want from your pool in terms of style and function?

My wife wanted a wet-edge pool, while I wanted a low-maintenance pool with a jet stream and a solar heating system. The shape of the land, the limited space and the different wishes of my wife and I required us to put a lot of thought into the pool's design.

What's your favourite feature of the pool?

Besides having realised our ideas, I like the pool equipment enclosure hidden behind the feature wall, which makes it basically invisible from most view points of the house. An additional multi-cyclone filter for cleaning also helps to conserve water.

Why the Japanese touches?

It was important to us to incorporate a Japanese influence, as I lived in Japan for 20 years and my wife is Japanese.

What's your overall impression of the finished project?

We love our pool - it turned out better than we ever imagined. It fits perfectly into the landscape with the Japanese garden, lantern and pagoda. Everybody did a great job.

To create a similar look in your backyard, find a pool specialist online: