The old assumption was simple:

Duplex block = no room for a ‘proper pool’

That assumption is ageing badly.

Today’s duplex projects are more design-aware, more compact and more intentional. As Sydney continues to make better use of its land, the question is no longer just how to fit two homes on a block. It is how to make those homes feel complete.

That is where Blue Haven Pools enter the conversation.

• Not oversized pools that eat the whole yard.
• Smarter pools.
• Better-shaped pools.
• Mineral wellness heated pools.
• Acoustic rich therapy with running water wall integrations, mini jet systems and arc deck jets
• Pools designed to work with the home and optimize lifestyle from day one.

In duplex settings, the pool has to do more with less. It has to sit neatly within tighter footprints, respect access and setbacks, and still feel like a considered part of the project. This is where custom concrete design becomes especially valuable.

Blue Haven’s own approach to concrete pool design for duplex homes reflects exactly that shift: design-led pools that suit shared outdoor zones, compact sites and modern architecture. For tighter backyards, their plunge pool designs show how smaller pools can still feel generous when the proportions are right.

The real mistake is not lack of space.

It is lack of planning. Or worse – oversized pools that don’t balance the yard, home and integration.

When a duplex is designed first and the pool is squeezed into the leftovers, the result usually feels compromised. But when the pool is considered early, it can improve the whole outdoor arrangement — circulation, sightlines, entertaining, and how the backyard feels from inside the home.

That is why more duplex projects are making room for Blue Haven Pools in 2026.

Because on a compact block, every square metre has to earn its place. And a well-planned pool does exactly that.

To see how compact-site pools are being approached with more intention, browse duplex pool design and plunge pool ideas at Blue Haven Pools. Blue Haven Pools — built for the way modern backyards actually live.

The post Why More Duplex Builds in Sydney Are Planned around a Blue Haven Plunge Pool appeared first on Completehome.

In 2026, the backyards that feel most current are not the ones following old formulas, but the ones designed with shape, mood and cohesion in mind.

Something has changed in residential design.

Homes are feeling warmer. Softer. More tactile.

You can see it in arched entries, rendered walls, limestone tones, curved edges and outdoor spaces that feel composed rather than assembled. And in established Sydney suburbs — where knockdown rebuilds and major renovations are common — this shift is becoming especially visible.

The pool is changing with that architecture.

What used to be a standard blue rectangle is increasingly becoming something more integrated:

• curved walls
• softened corners
• textured finishes
• shapes that feel connected to the house and landscape

This is not styling for the sake of styling.

Curves do something practical. They soften density, work beautifully in compact yards and help outdoor spaces feel calmer and more resolved.

But here is the important part:

Curves need planning.

A convincing curved pool is not a last-minute flourish. It requires design intent, the right material choices, and a builder who understands how the pool and home need to speak the same language. This is one reason concrete plays such a big role in the trend — it gives far more freedom when the design brief moves beyond standard shapes.

For inspiration, Blue Haven’s pool case studies and pool renovations and upgrades show how architectural direction, material tone and backyard layout can come together in a more cohesive way.

In 2026, curves are not just a trend.

They are a signal.

They say the backyard was designed, not dropped in.

For homeowners chasing a softer, more architectural outdoor space, explore Blue Haven’s case studies and renovation inspiration. Blue Haven Pools — where pool design starts with the bigger picture.

The post Curves Are Moving Into Sydney’s Established Suburbs — And Blue Haven Pools leads design appeared first on Completehome.

It is not just a construction choice. It is a design tool — one that gives homeowners and designers more freedom to respond to architecture, levels, layout and the way outdoor spaces are meant to feel.

Some materials follow design.

Concrete helps create it.

Over the past decade, the expectations around pools have changed. Homeowners are no longer choosing between “pool” and “no pool.” They are choosing between different types of outcomes.

Do they want a standard installation?

Or do they want a pool that works with the house, the levels, the site and the way they actually live?

That is where concrete keeps winning attention.

Concrete allows far more flexibility when the brief gets specific:

• custom sizes an internity flexibility such as integrated spa, ledge, wet deck
• free-form shapes
• curved walls
• ledges and seating
• better adaptation to angled sites or those needing a design solution around sewer lines, trees, nearby structures
• closer alignment with architecture and landscaping

Blue Haven’s overview of the types of pools in Australia lays this out clearly: different pool types suit different budgets and site conditions, but concrete is where design flexibility broadens considerably. Their in-ground concrete pool design page pushes that point further, showing how custom sizing and layout can turn the pool into a more integrated part of the home.

This matters more now because homes themselves are more architectural than they used to be. Outdoor zones are expected to feel cohesive, not separate. In tighter backyards, the pool often has to perform several roles at once — visual centrepiece, cooling zone, wellness feature, entertaining anchor.

That is hard to do well with a one-size-fits-all approach.

Concrete is not simply the premium choice because it sounds better.

It is often the right choice because the design brief has become more demanding.

And in 2026, that demand is only increasing.

To compare your options properly, start with Blue Haven’s guide to types of pools in Australia and explore their custom concrete pool designs. Blue Haven Pools — design-led, detail-obsessed, built to last.

The post Why Concrete Has Defined the Architectural Pool Era appeared first on Completehome.

The modern pool brief has changed.

It used to be enough for a pool to look good.

Now homeowners want more:

• water that feels better on skin and hair
• less chemical harshness
• simpler upkeep
• Lowest running costs including water, energy and chemical use
• a pool experience that feels more like a retreat and less like a chore

That is why the Blue Haven Enviro Smart Mineral Pool gets more attention.

Not because they are fashionable.

Because they answer a practical lifestyle question.

How do you build a pool that feels good to live with without costing the earth? Well the answer is naturally Blue Haven Pools.

Blue Haven’s Mineral Pools Sydney page frames this well, focusing on magnesium- and potassium-based mineral water as a gentler alternative to a more traditional chlorine-heavy feel. The company describes the system as softer on skin and hair, with reduced chemical smell and a more natural swimming experience for families.

And the appeal is not only sensory.

The water system now becomes part of the overall backyard mood. In homes designed around calm, wellness and outdoor living, the quality of the water matters just as much as the colour of the tiles or the shape of the coping. A pool should not only look inviting. It should feel inviting.

For homeowners planning a full outdoor upgrade, it also makes sense to explore how water system decisions sit alongside broader pool design choices. Blue Haven’s stories and inspiration and case studies help show where mineral systems fit into a more complete backyard vision.

Because in 2026, the best pools are not just built to impress visitors.

They are built to improve the way the space feels every day.

If you want a pool that feels as good as it looks, explore Blue Haven Mineral Pools, along with their stories and case studies. Blue Haven Pools — better water, better living, better-planned backyards.

The post Why The Blue Haven Enviro Smart Mineral Pool Is The Wellness Upgrade Homeowners Actually Want appeared first on Completehome.

For years, the pool sat in the ‘too hard basket’ because established houses can often mean restricted access increase the cost to excavate the pool or risks of undermining house footings were largely increased.

When planning a knock down / re-build the access opens and the reality of a concrete pool structure installation becomes a wonderful opportunity and Blue Haven Pools are leading the way in concrete pool two stage builds.

The first stage is structural placement. Excavation, steel, primary plumbing and concrete placement.

The house build then takes shape and when the home is ready for occupation, the finishing touches are done to the pool including tiling, filtration, heating, fencing, interior and filling the pool with water.

Knockdown rebuilds are no longer a niche move. They are a major part of how homeowners are upgrading in established areas, especially closer to city centres, where site constraints matter more and every decision has a ripple effect on access, levels, drainage and outdoor flow.

That matters because a pool is not just a finishing touch.

It is a planning decision.

When the pool is considered early, the project gains real advantages:

• access for machinery is easier
• placement is smarter
• levels and drainage can be coordinated properly
• outdoor areas feel integrated, not pieced together later

When it is left too late, the opposite tends to happen:

• finished work gets disturbed
• access becomes restricted or undermines nearby structures
• layout options shrink
• costs rise because the site is harder to work with

This is exactly why early pool planning has become such an important conversation in rebuilds and major renovations. Blue Haven breaks this down well in its guide on when to install your pool during a knockdown rebuild, especially for Sydney blocks where timing can directly affect cost and construction flow.

The smartest projects in 2026 are not asking, “Can we add a pool later?”

They are asking, “How do we make the house and pool work as one plan from the start?”

That is a much better question. And usually, it leads to a much better outcome.

If you are planning a rebuild or major renovation, explore more practical planning advice and project inspiration at Blue Haven Pools. Blue Haven Pools — plan first, build once.

The post Blue Haven Pools — Smart Planning for a Perfect Pool appeared first on Completehome.

Written with John Storch from A Total Concept

Creating a successful pool and poolside entertaining area requires a holistic approach. The space should be inviting, comfortable and private — an oasis where family and friends can gather for swimming and relaxation. Achieving a sense of seclusion and tranquillity involves thoughtful design choices, from screening inward views to incorporating sound barriers, ensuring ultimate comfort and enjoyment.

Assessing The Space

Before installing a swimming pool, it’s essential to analyse the area carefully. Physical factors such as orientation (north-facing aspects), prevailing winds, sun and shade requirements, and outward views all play a role. However, other considerations, such as noisy neighbours, nearby traffic, and potential privacy concerns are just as important.

To create a truly peaceful environment, the principle of “if you can’t hear or see them, they can’t hear or see you” is a useful guideline.

Visual Privacy

Most people prefer not to be on display while swimming, entertaining, or simply unwinding poolside. Thoughtful landscaping, fencing, and strategic placement of structures can help create a secluded sanctuary.

Aural Privacy

Noise pollution from neighbouring properties or busy roads can disrupt the serenity of an outdoor space. Aural privacy can be achieved through two main strategies: creating “white noise” to mask unwanted sounds or constructing physical acoustic barriers.

Enhancing Privacy with Design Elements

There are several ways to ensure both visual and aural privacy in a poolside setting. The following elements can be incorporated to create a tranquil and stylish retreat.

Lush Greenery

Landscaping plays a key role in designing a secluded pool area. Plants not only soften harsh lines and integrate the pool with the surrounding garden, they also provide natural privacy screening. When selecting plants, it’s important to consider maintenance and practicality.

Some key points to keep in mind:

• Choose dense, tall plants for privacy screening.
• Opt for low-maintenance species to minimise upkeep.\
• Avoid shedding trees like eucalypts, which can clog pool filters.
• Be mindful of bee-attracting plants and those with thorns, especially in spaces frequented
  by children.

For a more organic aesthetic, a mixed border of evergreen shrubs, small trees, and palms can replace a traditional hedge. Climbers on trellises, walls or pergolas can also enhance privacy while adding a decorative element.

The Power of White Noise

Plants can contribute to aural privacy by generating natural sounds. Bamboo, for example, creates a gentle rustling in the wind, while tall grasses provide a soothing “swooshing” effect. Water features, such as trickling fountains or Japanese shishi-odoshi (deer scarers), are another excellent way to mask unwanted noise while enhancing ambience.

Fencing and Walls: Functional and Stylish

The phrase “good fences make good neighbours” is particularly relevant in poolside design. Even in the friendliest neighbourhoods, privacy is essential for creating a relaxing outdoor retreat.

Fencing for Privacy and Safety

Pool fencing is a legal requirement in Australia, but it can also be a stylish addition to the landscape. Choosing the right fencing material and design ensures both security and aesthetic harmony. To enhance privacy, consider:

Some key points to keep in mind:

• Installing solid fencing made from masonry, timber, or fibrous cement sheeting for acoustic control.
• Using decorative screens or integrating climbing plants to soften harsh fencing lines.
• Opting for black fencing to make surrounding greenery pop.

Most boundary fences are restricted to 1.8m in height, but positioning an additional fence slightly inside the boundary may allow for greater height and improved privacy.

Walls and Acoustic Barriers

Denser materials provide better sound insulation. Solid fences combined with acoustic sheeting or foam panels (often used in sound studios) can significantly reduce external noise, creating a more serene environment.

Incorporating Pergolas, Cabanas and Screens

Structural elements such as pergolas, cabanas and privacy screens add both function and style to a pool area. These features:

Some key points to keep in mind:

• Provide shade and additional lounging areas.
• Act as visual and acoustic barriers.
• Enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the space.

Incorporating screens into the pool’s design — such as privacy walls that extend from the pool’s structure — can create a striking architectural feature. Materials like timber, metal or mirrored surfaces can be used to create a secluded retreat.

Final touches for tranquillity: Water features, wind chimes and ambient sounds

From simple ponds to elaborate waterfall designs, water features serve as both visual focal points and noise-masking solutions. The sound of moving water can enhance relaxation while minimising external distractions.

Adding wind chimes to the poolside area can introduce a soothing background sound, contributing to an overall sense of serenity.

The Ultimate Outdoor Sanctuary

A well-planned landscape design incorporating both visual and aural privacy will not only enhance the enjoyment of an outdoor pool area, but also add value to the property. By thoughtfully integrating plants, fencing, structural elements and water features, homeowners can create a luxurious and secluded retreat, ensuring both style and seclusion in their own private oasis.

The post Poolside privacy appeared first on Completehome.

Once seen as a purely recreational or aesthetic feature, today’s pools are being reimagined as holistic wellness zones — places to recharge, recover and reconnect. Across Australia, homeowners are embracing the restorative power of water, blending design innovation with health-led thinking to transform their backyards into true sanctuaries.

From lap lanes to living rituals

Wellness pools are as much about how they feel as how they look. Designers are integrating temperature variation, texture and sound to create immersive sensory experiences, from the invigorating chill of an ice plunge to the gentle hum of circulating jets. Warm and cold therapies are now essential inclusions, inspired by global spa culture and the rising popularity of recovery routines among athletes and wellness enthusiasts alike.

Hydrotherapy jets, resistance swim systems and spa zones are being designed seamlessly into pool shells, allowing users to move from active exercise to deep relaxation in one fluid space. The focus is no longer on laps, but on longevity — pools that promote circulation, reduce stress and enhance sleep quality through daily ritual.

Nature as the healing backdrop

In a wellness pool, materials matter. Natural stone, warm timber decking and mineral-enriched water help create an organic aesthetic that connects to the landscape. Many designers are opting for magnesium or mineral systems, prized for their skin-softening and muscle-relaxing benefits. Gentle lighting and integrated planting complete the sensory balance, turning the pool zone into a retreat that feels restorative by day and serene by night.

Water movement plays a central role in wellbeing design too. Water features like water walls, water curtains and provide calming acoustic texture — a subtle cue to slow down. When paired with well-considered landscaping, these features transform an ordinary courtyard into a cocoon of tranquillity.

The new wellness luxury

Technology is also elevating comfort and control. Automated temperature systems, smart filtration and app-based operation allow users to create personalised environments, switching effortlessly between recovery plunge, heated soak or gentle lap session. Combined with energy-efficient pumps and solar heating, the modern wellness pool offers both sustainability and self-care in equal measure.

Designing for wellbeing starts with intention. Consider how you want to feel in the space? Every element, from sound to scent to temperature, should support that outcome.

Whether nestled into a tiny terrace or a rural backyard, the wellness pool represents a shift in how we live with water, not just as a luxury, but as a part of daily health.

Wellness Tips

1. Smart design: A pool can double as a wellness studio: integrate bench seating for meditation, add ledges for stretching or create shallow wading zones for low-impact exercise.

2. What’s in the water: Mineral and magnesium systems are kinder to skin and eyes than traditional chlorine and can leave swimmers feeling relaxed and rejuvenated after every swim.

3. Material matters: Choose natural or tactile finishes that feel good underfoot such as limestone, tumbled travertine or smooth pebble interiors — to enhance the sensory experience.

4. Cold is the new hot: Short cold-water immersion (10–15°C for 2–3 minutes) can reduce inflammation, boost mood and improve recovery. Pair a plunge zone with a nearby spa for a perfect hot–cold contrast.

The post The Wellness Pool appeared first on Completehome.

Stoked Stainless has formulated a guide to help you find the perfect relaxation outlet for your space, breaking down the core differences and explaining how to discover your perfect wellness tub based on your tranquillity. Whether that is slow evenings under the stars, recovery, or a place to unwind and enjoy a drink after a busy day.

What’s the Difference Between a Hot Tub, Spa, Pool, and Outdoor Bath?

All offer the opportunity to invest in yourself and a lifetime of relaxation and wellness. But their purpose and ownership experience differ.

Hot Tub: A hot tub is designed primarily for soaking, relaxation, and ambience. The benchmark for indulgence, hot tubs are the perfect place for the full family to relax, or just yourself.

Traditional hot tubs are often deep and circular, promoting stillness rather than movement. Many modern hot tubs (especially wood-fired or hybrid models) strip things back to essentials – water, heat, and time to slow down.
Best for: relaxation, romance, off-grid homes, those special places, and people who value simplicity.

Spas: Crafted to transform any space into a personal retreat. Spas are a little more intricate with different technical features working together to deliver the ultimate relaxation experience at the push of a button. Spas suit people who want convenience, year-round comfort and simplicity.

All of our spas can be controlled remotely via an app on your phone, no matter where you are, making it easy to use.
Best for: families, daily use, urban homes with reliable power and wellness centres.

Pools: The perfect addition to any outdoor space. With a reverse-cycle heat pump, you can heat or cool to your liking while remaining energy efficient. You can enjoy the experience to your preference.

Typically, larger than other options, they offer a perfect setting for solo relaxation or shared experiences with friends and family. They can maximise a small wellness area or serve as the centrepiece of your outdoor environment.
Best for: entertaining, recovery and cooling off.

Outdoor Bath: An outdoor bath is the epitome of elegance in any outdoor setting. They are personal, intimate and built to make relaxation a ritual in a minimalist setup.

Allow yourself to immerse and lie down, or sit and enjoy drinks with your special people. Outdoor baths are the perfect way for you to unwind and find the peace you need.
Best for: solo use, slow living, and minimalist outdoor setups.

Which Is Better for Year-Round Use: Spa, Pool, Hot Tub or Outdoor Bath?

For most households, controlling temperature and flexibility are key for year-round use. This all depends on your energy sources. Electric plunge pools and some outdoor baths with reverse-cycle heating are the most versatile options. They can warm up in winter for soaking and cool down in summer for refreshing dips or cold therapy. This makes them perfect for climates with both hot summers and cold winters.

Spas and hot tubs focus on warmth. They keep a steady temperature and are reliable for year-round use. However, they can only cool the water to ambient temperature.

If you want flexibility for all seasons, warm in winter and cool in summer, choose a plunge pool or outdoor baths. If you prefer consistent warmth and relaxation, spas and hot tubs are good options.

Spa, Pool, Hot Tub or Outdoor Bath for Recovery & Wellness

Each recovery method has a unique role. Heat therapy helps you relax, improves blood flow, and releases tight muscles. Cold therapy reduces swelling, boosts mental strength, and supports recovery after exercise. Many people combine both methods by alternating between hot and cold treatments to maximise benefits. Pools are ideal for active recovery. They provide space for swimming and stretching, making them great for training and rehabilitation. Spas use jets and heat to ease muscle tension, while hot tubs offer a soothing soak that helps you recover slowly and reset your nervous system. Outdoor baths create a quiet and distraction-free environment that supports both mental and physical recovery.

While athletes often prefer pools for training, most people like to start with heat therapy for comfort and relaxation. They may later add cold or contrast therapy. Recovery is about creating a space you enjoy using every day, not just about improving performance.

Simple Comparison Overview

Temperature range

• Hot Tub: Ambient temperature to hot
• Spa: Ambient temperature to hot
• Pool: Cold to hot (if heated)
• Outdoor Bath: Options for Ambient temperature, cold to hot (if heated)

Primary use

• Hot Tub: Relaxation
• Spa: Comfort and convenience
• Pool: Entertaining, recovery and cooling
• Outdoor Bath: Personal relaxation and ritual

Heating method

• Hot Tub: Wood-fired and electric
• Spa: Electric
• Pool: Electric
• Outdoor Bath: Wood-fired and electric

Typical size

• Hot Tub: Medium
• Spa: Medium to large
• Pool: Medium to Extra Large
• Outdoor Bath: Small (One to two person)

Running costs

• Hot Tub: Low (especially wood-fired)
• Spa: Low to moderate
• Pool: Low to moderate (higher if covers off and extreme temperatures)
• Outdoor Bath: Low

Best suited for

• Hot Tub: Lifestyle soaking
• Spa: Set-and-forget users
• Pool: Entertaining and recovery-focused users
• Outdoor bath: Minimalist bathers

Quick Recommendations by Use Case

• Best for off-grid homes: Wood-Fired Hot Tub or Wood-Fired Outdoor Baths
• Best for small decks: Compact Pool, Hot Tub or Outdoor Baths
• Best for families: Electric Spa or Pools
• Best for romance & ambience: Wood Fired Hot Tub
• Best for cold-water recovery: Pool or Ice Baths

There is no single “best” option, only the one that suits your lifestyle. Choosing between a Hot Tub, Spa, Pool, or Outdoor Bath isn’t about trends or specs. It’s about how you want to feel, how involved you want to be, and how your home actually works. Get that right, and the rest falls into place!

For more information

Stoked Stainless

The post Hot Tubs, Spas, Pools or Outdoor Baths: Which Is Right for Your Home Sanctuary? appeared first on Completehome.

Here are some of the top pool colour trends to look out for:

1. Earthy and Natural Tones

Neutral, earthy colours are gaining popularity in pool designs. Shades of soft greys, beige and warm taupes are being used to create a more organic and seamless integration with the surrounding landscape. These colours complement natural stone, decking and plant life, giving pools a more grounded and serene look.

2. Moody Blues and Charcoals

While traditional blue pools remain popular, deeper, moody shades like navy, charcoal and slate grey are becoming increasingly common. These darker tones provide a more luxurious, sophisticated look and help to retain heat, making the pool feel like a stylish retreat.

3. Emerald Greens

Emerald or forest greens are making waves in pool design, inspired by nature and tropical destinations. These shades evoke a sense of lush greenery and can create a striking contrast against vibrant garden landscapes, making the pool feel like part of a natural oasis.

4. Soft Aquas and Turquoise

For a calming, tranquil vibe, soft aqua and turquoise hues are becoming popular choices for pools. These lighter, refreshing shades evoke clear tropical waters and offer a crisp, fresh feel, ideal for creating a serene and peaceful outdoor space.

5. Black Pools

Black pools are a bold trend that continues to grow in popularity. The dramatic, sleek look of a black pool creates an eye-catching statement and enhances the overall luxury feel of the outdoor space. The dark surface also adds a stunning mirror-like effect to the water, reflecting the sky and surrounding environment.

6. Sunset and Coral Hues

Inspired by stunning natural landscapes, sunset and coral-inspired colours are becoming a popular choice for pool interiors. These warm, vibrant colours give pools a unique, resort-style aesthetic and pair beautifully with outdoor spaces that emphasise relaxation and socialising.

7. Customisable and Shimmering Finishes

Pool owners are increasingly opting for customisable, shimmering finishes that change in appearance depending on the angle of the light. Iridescent finishes or a mix of light and dark blues, greens or metallics add dimension and depth to the pool, creating a unique visual experience.

8. Minimalist White and Light Grey

For those who prefer a modern, minimalist style, white and lightgrey pools are making a comeback. These clean, crisp colours reflect the surroundings and create a bright, airy feel in the outdoor space. Light-coloured finishes also make pools look larger and more open, ideal for smaller backyards.

As the focus on personalisation and creating an individual outdoor sanctuary grows, 2025 will see pool colour trends become more varied and diverse. Whether you’re after a natural, serene vibe or a bold, modern statement, the pool colours of tomorrow offer something for every taste.

This article first appeared in Poolside Magazine, Issue 61.

Featured image courtesy of Kiama Pools

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You’ve made the decision to install a pool on your property — great! Now you need to decide what type of pool to install. We know there is a lot to get your head around, so we’ve put together this simple guide to the types of pools available so you can find the best option for your site, lifestyle, budget and timeframe.

Above-ground pools

Often chosen due to the quick turnaround between purchase and installation, an above-ground swimming pool can be installed within a day and used that night. As the name suggests, above-ground pools sit on top of the ground and don’t require land excavation. They are prefabricated, meaning they’re built offsite and delivered to your property complete. Above-ground pools can be either vinyl-lined or fibreglass and come in a range of shapes, sizes, colours and styles.

This type of swimming pool is often cheaper than inground options because they are easier and quicker to install (requiring no or minimal excavation). Above-ground pools are often an economical and logical choice for use on a sloping block, where the water level of the pool can sit at the same level as the ground floor of the home.

An added bonus of an above-ground pool is that it’s transportable, meaning you can sell it or take it with you if you move house.

In-ground pools

In-ground swimming pools sit below the ground and require excavation. They are a more expensive option than above-ground pools as they require more time to plan and construct or install, depending on the type of pool you choose.

You may wish to choose a prefabricated fibreglass or vinyl-lined pool that can be delivered and installed in the hole in the ground, or a concrete pool which is custom-built to fit your space. With in-ground pools, a fair bit of planning and preparation is needed, particularly when underground pipes need to be moved to fit the pool in the desired space. However the effort is often worth the challenges as on standard, flat blocks, in-ground pools tend to make the space feel more open.

Concrete pools

Often the costliest option and the most time consuming to build, a concrete pool requires planning, designing and building as they’re completely customised to suit your space and lifestyle. This means you have unlimited options in terms of size, depth, shape, colour and style. You may wish to incorporate a negative edge, a wading area for children, a spa, steps, benches, jets, a water feature, curves, straight edges — the options really are endless. The interior of a concrete pool can be finished in ceramic tiles, pebblecrete, coloured quartz, epoxy resin paints, or vinyl lining.

With a concrete pool there is no pool manufacturer — your builder creates the pool from scratch — so you are reliant on them to deliver a quality product that works well. It’s therefore crucial to do your research and choose a builder you trust and who fully understands your pool requirements.

Fibreglass pools

Fibreglass pools are prefabricated, meaning they are built in a factory and delivered to your property on a truck. They have a very smooth surface area and can be finished in a range of colours. One of the main benefits of choosing a fibreglass pool is the low maintenance required to keep it clean and functional.

The fibreglass surface, known as gelcoat, is non-porous so there are fewer areas for algae to grow. For the same reason, fewer chemicals are needed to keep the pool healthy. This type of pool is very quick to install, usually two days, and is long lasting due to the fact there is no liner or added interior (just the durable gelcoat finish). The initial cost of a fibreglass pool is higher than a vinyl-lined pool but less than a concrete pool. One of the main reasons people choose not to install a fibreglass pool is because they can’t find a shape and size to suit their space. It’s not possible for you to change the size, shape or depth of a fibreglass pool, so it’s a matter of searching and finding one that suits your requirements.

Vinyl-lined pools

This type of pool is the least expensive to buy and install. Vinyl-lined pools are available as standard models, however the shape, size and depth can also be customised to fit your space and intended use. The surface of vinyl-lined pools is smooth, durable and usually resistant to algae. Despite being the cheapest option, vinyl-lined pools do require their liners to be replaced every five to nine years (which is usually around $4000). Depending on how long you intend to have the pool, this cost can add up over the years.

Lap pools

While a lap pool doesn’t have a specific size range, generally it is much longer than it is wide, allowing the user to swim laps. Usually the width of a lap pool starts at around 2.5m wide and the length can be anywhere from 8m to 25m (or more). Generally the depth is consistent throughout, however some owners may wish to add a deeper end to add flexibility to the pool’s usage, for example a deeper area for kids to jump into. Lap pools can be custom-built concrete pools, vinyl-lined or fibreglass. Lap pools are becoming an increasingly popular choice for metropolitan homeowners due to their ability to fit into the often unused space to the side of a house, without dominating the backyard.

Swim spas

A swim spa is a pool with jets that creates a current for the user to swim against for fitness purposes. This type of pool is suitable for someone who likes the idea of utilising their pool for fitness, but lacks the space for a lap pool or full-sized pool. Most swim spas have heaters that enable them to double as spas, and some even have seats around the edges for relaxing. Swim spas are purchased as a complete unit and installed into the ground, above ground or integrated into a deck.

Plunge pools

A plunge pool is a small pool that is deep enough for the whole body to be submerged for a cool, refreshing experience. Traditionally, plunge pools were used to cool off and invigorate the senses after a sauna or spa, however due to their small size, they’re becoming a popular pool choice for people with small inner-city backyards or courtyards.

Typically a plunge pool is a concrete pool that’s been custom-built and which also doubles as a visual feature — often with beautiful ceramic tiles, lighting and/or other eye-catching design features. Most plunge pool owners will opt to use more expensive, stand-out tiles than a cheaper tile or pool interior as the overall cost isn’t much higher due to the small surface area of the pool.

Shipping-container pools

Relatively new on the scene, shipping container pools gained popularity in 2017 when Sticks and Wombat installed one on The Block Elsternwick. These pools are a fibreglass pool insert that sits inside a shipping container. They are put together in a factory so there is less on-site work required. They’re very quick to install and are a cost-effective option. They sit above ground so they’re ideal for homes on sloping blocks or when access from the second storey is preferred. Otherwise the pool works well when accessed from the ground floor with stairs and a deck built around it.

This article was originally published in Poolside Showcase #039

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