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17-08-2023

DESIGNING THE PERFECT SWIMMING POOL

By Jez Clark, Principal – Clark+Granger
It is widely known that swimming pools have become a fundamental aspect of the Australian outdoor lifestyle, with roughly 2.7 million Australian households possessing a swimming pool. In fact, Australia builds more domestic swimming pools per capita than any other country in the world.

Therefore, if you have plans of constructing your own backyard oasis, I have put together a few tips and trends that you can draw inspiration from to optimise your investment.
Now obviously here on the mountain you would be advised to heat your pool to maximise its use throughout the year. Hey, when I lived in Cairns, I heated the pool to 30 degrees, almost warm enough to make a cup of tea. Ideally, the pool should be in a sunny spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day, as this will help keep the water warm and reduce heating costs. A cover would also be a good idea. If you don’t mind going a bit out there, darker shades and tones can make your pool more sustainable, as dark tiles absorb heat from the sun, naturally warming the water 5 –10 degrees more than light-coloured pool tiles. Dark pool tiles will add dramatic aesthetic value to a pool’s design: think black, dark grey, and dark blue for a chic, modern take on outdoor design.
With so many acreage lots and magnificent views, an infinity edge is an obvious choice, but if you’re looking for a cheaper option, consider a blade edge. This will give you the feel of an infinity edge, without the price.
A tiled blade edge creates a stunning visual line between the water and the horizon. These tiled edges are very cost-effective and a very clever design feature to add that extra bit of ‘wow’ factor to any pool project.
What’s in a tile?
There are a lot of natural factors that can change the appearance and colour of the water in your pool. The water will look different first thing in the morning compared to later in the afternoon because of how the sun hits the surface. Additionally, landscaping around the pool can cast shadows on different parts of the water to change the overall colour, and even the deep end is likely to have a hue that varies from the shallow side.
However, the biggest way to change the water’s appearance is to choose a pool finish with a unique hue. Traditionally, pool interiors and liners were either white or blue. However, you no longer need to limit yourself to just those two colours to achieve your perfect pool.
If you want water that looks bright and spring clean, choose a light grey liner. For blue water that is translucent or crystalline, go with an interior tile or liner that’s pale blue or shades of white. Accent the natural design of your pool with green, tan, or brown colours that will create soft green tones in the water.
For a deeper blue, choose a dark blue liner or tile. For that classic turquoise pool? Beige or cream interiors reflect the light to create turquoise water.
Striking colour contrasts are a massive trend in pool design in 2023, notably checkers and stripes. The stark contrast between colours can create interesting geometric patterns and emphasise the scale of the pool. Factor in refracting light from the pool water, and you have a genuinely captivating swimming pool design. Even patterned pool tiles are making a comeback. Think Moroccan ‘Zellij’ tiles in dazzling repeats, and you have a more unique pool design giving strong Mediterranean styling notes to any project.
If you are feeling brave, the retro trend is for you. Combine colours like turquoise, mint, and pink in bold, geometric patterns for a modern vintage look that creates a classic yet trendsetting pool design. Perhaps due to ‘Barbie Mania’, pink tiles are trending, from kitchens to bathrooms to fireplaces, and pools aren’t any exception. Pink tiles are just stunning and give pools a boutique 1950’s motel character.
For the less bold of you, mix and match may be the trend for you. This trend combines different tile finishes and sizes to create a unique look in your pool area, mixing tiles of the same colour with different textures or patterns for an eye-catching design.
Whatever direction you go with when selecting pool tiles, there are a few things to consider:
Pool tiles come in various shapes, sizes, colours, and finishes. Make sure to choose pool tiles that complement the overall scale and style of your pool. Don’t forget that the pool should also be in harmony with your home.
As pool tiles experience constant exposure to pool chemicals, water, and accessories, ensure you choose high-quality, durable tiles that will withstand the wear and tear of pool use.
Select a non-porous and slip-resistant pool tile to ensure safety and easy maintenance.
Consider choosing a matte finish instead of a glossy one, as this will offer a better grip when wet.
A Splash Deck
Don’t let the name fool you, the shallow entry design of a splash deck, also known as a sun shelf, offers plenty of entertainment and options for adults as well as kids. For families with young children, splash decks offer babies and toddlers a place to splash and play without having to be fully submerged in the pool. It also gives little ones an easier entryway, since pool steps can be difficult for young swimmers. For the adults, a splash deck makes a great spot for pool loungers, and a great space for relaxing under a pool umbrella.
Smart Pool Technology
Imagine pressing a button and instantly, you can adjust your pool’s temperature, set ambient music to play, and control everything from the lighting to the chlorine levels. Smart pool technology is for you if you’ve ever fantasised about arriving home and diving right into your heated pool while your favourite music is playing. Picture this: LED lighting illuminates the water in a range of colours, while smart technology allows you to monitor and control your pool from anywhere, at any time. Enjoy round-the-clock remote monitoring and top-of-the-line automation set to enhance not only your pool experience but also increase your pool’s security, comfort, and convenience.
Take the hassle out of pool maintenance with in-floor cleaning systems – the ultimate solution for crystal-clear pool water. These cutting-edge systems are designed to keep your pool sparkling clean and free from debris by eliminating the need for traditional skimmers. Instead, the system circulates the water throughout the pool, removing dirt, leaves, and other debris with ease. With this innovative technology, you’ll spend less time cleaning your pool and more time enjoying it.
Fire and Water
Lastly, let’s talk about fire and water. Fire pits have been a very popular component of our outdoor spaces for several years now. Combining the fire pit and lounge within your pool is just a logical progression of this trend.
Our latest pool design, which was recently named the Residential Pool of the Year by Gold Coast Master Builders, has many of the elements which I have mentioned above. The grey tiles really gave the pool a natural feel, the splash deck and in-pool seating ledges gave ample opportunities to unwind in the water and admire the view. The infinity edge blended the pool with the distant pastoral views, and the sunken lounge and fire pit provided that much sought after waterside entertainment space, and integrated seamlessly with the pool.
Designing the perfect swimming pool is an art that combines innovation, aesthetics, and functionality. By aligning with these tips and trends, you can transform your backyard into a stunning oasis that celebrates the essence of Australian outdoor living. Whether it’s basking in the sun’s warmth or embracing the captivating interplay of colours and patterns, your dream pool awaits, ready to redefine your outdoor lifestyle.
Visit Clark+Granger at www.cplusg.com.au or phone 0456 111 120 to find out more.