Swimming Pools

When Nick and Melinda decided they were sick of cleaning up leaves in the backyard from their three large gum trees, they replaced them with a pool. In one weekend, they had the trees pulled out, the yard excavated and an above-ground pool installed. Adding value to the home and providing some healthy entertainment for their growing daughter, the pool has been a welcome addition to their home.

The only guidelines for this pool design were to keep it contemporary and to avoid blocking the view. Set against a dramatic backdrop of natural bushland, the pool had to bridge the divide between modern architecture and nature. Robert from Mediterranean Pools took on the challenge with confidence, creating a stunning swimming area big enough for the whole family to enjoy.

The first step in appreciating a fine pool design should be visual. This stylish pool satisfies the senses well before the first splash, with its ambient lighting, lush garden surrounds and uniquely angular design.

This property is one of those rare finds that looks out over its very own parkland. Owner Rowland decided to make the most of his fortunate location by employing the services of David from Outdoor Creations, renowned for his natural-look pool and landscaping expertise.

Kim had some grand ideas for her pool. She wanted a pool that would leave enough grass for her young children to run around and play. The result is a cosy five-sided pool and spa that caters to the needs of both parents and children.

Unfortunately not all of us can live in a mansion overlooking the sea. Without winning the lotto, however, it is still possible to have a luxurious spa and pool with a touch of the exotic.

Linda and Chris had specific requirements for their dream pool. With a water-polo enthusiast and a champion diver in the family, an unusual depth was necessary. The family wanted their pool for exercise as well as relaxation and it had to have a great design that worked in harmony with the overall look of the backyard. The result is a 2.5m deep, resort-style pool with sharp lines and a fresh, clean finish.

When home owner Jamie decided to add a swimming pool to his idyllic Sydney riverside property, he enlisted the help of landscape architect John, from A Total Concept Landscape Architects & Swimming Pool Designers. Jamie had previously seen John's work in magazines and thought he would be the person to realise his idea of a contemporary, integrated pool design.

When Richard and Kevin were thinking about what they wanted from their new pool, they came to a few conclusions. The pool had to have a natural look and feel, but still incorporate modern architectural lines, and it had to work as an entertainment area. The result, by Queensland company Majestic Pools & Landscapes, is an inspired interpretation of this brief.

This multi-faceted concrete pool built for a family on Kawana Island, on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, re-creates the feel of island living. The designer pool closely follows the boundaries of the house, giving the sense that the house is an island and the pool a miniature sea.