Tranquil waters

Designed (in conjunction with Robyn Shafer) and built by Frontier Pools

From the pool designer:

A major renovation and extension of the original 1970s dwelling presented an opportunity to reinvent the great outdoors, too.

This eight-hectare property in Coatesville, with a house that stretches long across the land, called for a pool that would marry the home with its backdrop – as well as being a feature in its own right.

One of the owners, Mark Finlay, says: “In this lifestyle-block area, it’s important to invest in the grounds."

Conceptualised in conjunction with landscape designer Robyn Shafer, the 20m x 8m pool in this north-facing backyard is the clear hero of the plan.

Water feature as great connector

However, a split-level water feature/pond, also built by Frontier Pools, makes the connection that counts.

Surrounded by a rock wall ha-ha, planted with grasses and low-growing shrubs, the stepped-down shallow ponds link the house to the swimming pool in easy/natural harmony.

Finding the right pool colour

Choosing a colour for the pool itself was tricky. 

Frontier suggested two or three options we thought would look good with the lighter stone surrounds, and the owner went and had a look at a couple of examples.

French-grey plaster was specified as it complements the mature native treescape – tōtara and rimu that flourish along the creek boundary – its darker tones segueing with the setting.

Visual interest

While the outlook from the home has a pleasing geometry, the multi-element design of the pool itself adds interest.

Shallow areas – 'which will be great when grandchildren come along' – flank a wooden platform that appears to float on the waters.

The deck makes a natural podium for a Balinese drum kit that reads as a piece of sculpture within the tableau.

“Many people think it’s a canoe,” says Finlay.

The spa pool is fringed by the same Antique Shahabad Limestone pavers that lend a soft warmth to the zone.

 Accessed via a set of stepping stones, it’s great for a relaxing soak on winter days. 

In the evenings, underwater lights turn the focus on the inky depths.

An asset in more ways than one

With six adult children who visit often, and the home now a favourite venue for birthday parties and other celebrations, the pool is in more frequent use than the owner had imagined. 

Tranquil to look at and a fulcrum for family life, it’s an asset in more ways than one.

Story by: Trendsideas