Splashing out
From the resort-style waterslide and poolside bar to the expansive patios and outdoor kitchen, this property was designed for entertaining on a grand scale
Renovation projects often evolve as work progresses, but few would expand on the scale of this project.
The owners commissioned architect Thomas Errington of TTE Designs and interior designers Ria Gleeson and Sophie Burns of Burning Red Design to transform their 1980s house. The project needed to include a swimming pool.
"This vision changed as time went on, expanding to become something a lot bigger, with a bar, outdoor kitchen, spa, sauna and waterslide," says the architect.
The renovations included a new pool house with a high gable designed in the style of the remodelled house; and a covered pergola leading off the existing living area.
"We used solid concrete beams and supports to provide a sense of permanence," says the architect. "In other areas plastered lightweight concrete panels have the same effect."
With its automated louvre roof, the main outdoor seating area can be enjoyed all year round. A built-in outdoor kitchen with a barbecue also makes alfresco dining easy.
The resort-style setting is further enhanced by a bar designed by Burning Red.
"The owners wanted a Mexican-style tequila bar, so we chose a cowhide wallpaper and black laminate for the cabinetry," says Gleeson. "The laminate also features on the bar top and display shelving, giving the space an intimate, masculine ambience."
In-cabinet lighting and a 4m-high ceiling in the bar ensures it doesn't feel oppressive. The extra ceiling height was provided to accommodate stairs lead to an elevated, sheltered courtyard-style patio that overlooks the pool and the picturesque estuary beyond.
"This is obviously a great house for entertaining, and it was important to provide intimate nooks and crannies as well as expansive patios," says Thomas Errington. "There is always a quiet place to retreat from the crowds if desired."
A high, hexagonal tower behind the bar was built to accommodate the waterslide. Designed in conjunction with specialist consultants and using 3D computer software, the slide twists and turns to drop down into the pool through a curtain of water.
"The height of the raised patio was partly determined by the need to run the slide beneath," says the architect.
Glass balustrading around the patio and a glass pool fence with no handrail ensures the views are uninterrupted.
Other key features of the pool include a stone accent wall, arcing water spouts and multicoloured LED lighting that transforms the poolscape by night.
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Story by: Colleen Hawkes
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