The creation of a natural-look pool

The space David was asked to revamp was a steep and challenging backyard. Significant excavation was required to create terraces for a usable flat area. The new garden at the very top of the yard benefits from this effect by hiding the functional elements, such as the vegetable garden, while bringing more attractive plants to the fore.

The largest terrace was cut in for a combined pool and entertainment area. The use of colourful Castlemaine slate for the entire area creates a dramatic finish. Slate works as a practical surface material for the pool surrounds and David also uses it quite differently as a feature wall behind the pool. Extending down into the water, the rock face enhances the rugged natural look, continuing on from the garden landscaping.

When it came to pool interior colour, Rowland was glad he trusted the expert. Going against the owner's first choice of a light aqua colour, David used a pebble mix with a green tinge, making the pool reminiscent of a natural river.

The tranquil pond on the other side of the rock stairs separates the pool from a narrower pool and waterfall. At night, the whole place glows with lighting in the ground and under water. 

With children of mixed ages, the pool is used for fun as much as exercise. At around 12 metres in length, it is long enough for laps and has a depth of 2 metres at the deepest point. A generously sized ledge runs around the pool, ideal for sitting and paddling the feet. But for Rowland, it's enough to simply have it there.

"Even if we don't use it to swim in, it's a very relaxing place," says the proud pool owner. "I'm standing in the house right now and I can hear the waterfalls. The sound of water is very soothing."

David Kirkpatrick

Outdoor Creations

What was the brief?

This property backs onto a lovely park, so the clients wanted something fairly natural looking. They wanted a stunning pool and landscape and they wanted to maximise the use of a very steep block.

How does the pool correspond with the landscape?

There is a beautiful pond that mirrors the pool, with waterfalls and a rock wall. The back garden is heavily terraced, so there's a lawn area the children can play on and there's a really strong emphasis on the garden being productive. 

How did you come up with the design ideas?

To a degree it was dictated by the landscape. We cut out the land to see how wide a terrace we could have. We needed a minimum of 4 metres by 5 metres for the entertainment area, so that indicated how far out we could go. From there the pool and the ponds evolved.

What were the main challenges involved?

The excavation and heavy rock, how to get the swimming pool and entertainment area and lawn area on such a steep block and still at the same time maintain access to the parkland at the rear of our property. 

What do you like most about the pool?

Probably the striking nature of the garden at night time. It looks spectacular. There's a lot of lighting throughout the garden. There are lights in the ground, and lights underneath the swimming pool. Also the waterfalls. They're not excessive, but subtle and really striking.

Rowland

What was the brief for the designer?

We wanted a pool to blend with the natural effect that we were trying to achieve, with the Castlemaine rock scattered around the place. We relied on David to come up with the ideas and just as well we did. If we had done it the way we were going to, we wouldn't have achieved the same outcome.

How did you choose David to be your designer?

When we decided to do the landscape at the back, we had a look at some magazines. Every time I found a design I liked, they all happened to be by David Kilpatrick. So I thought this guy obviously has the right approach, so we gave him a call. He's been exceptional, very professional. 

Did the finished project live up to expectations?

We're very pleased with the work David did. The pool looks very nice at night. Visitors who walk out there at night say "Wow!" We didn't know if there would be enough room for a big pool, but we ended up with something about 12 or 13 metres. It's come up really nice. 

What surprised you most?

We let the designer recommend the various finishes. One of the special things he did was extend the rock face down so it would flow into the water, rather than finishing at the top of the pool. It looks really natural. 

What do you like most about the pool?

Probably the three waterfalls. You know, the sound of water flowing is magnificent.