A contemporary pool and landscape renovation brings new life to a classic kidney-shaped pool
Mike CASS creative Pty Ltd – 2026 Pool of the Year Awards Entrant
Perched above the shoreline in Sydney’s Palm Beach, this substantial pool renovation is a considered response to place, history and lifestyle. Designed by mike CASS creative Pty Ltd and executed by Design It Landscapes, the project transforms an existing 50-year-old kidney-shaped pool into a contemporary outdoor environment — without losing the character that made the site special in the first place.
Rather than removing the original pool, the brief centred on reworking what was already there. The result is a modern interpretation of a classic kidney design, reshaped to introduce new seating zones, integrated steps and an extended beach-style entry that invites people to slow down and gather in the shallows. The renovation respects the original footprint while elevating its function, finish and relationship to the surrounding landscape.
Set on a steep 1100sqm block with challenging access, the Palm Beach site demanded a holistic approach. With the pool positioned approximately 10m above street level and materials carried more than 100m by hand, careful planning and sequencing were essential. These constraints informed the design, encouraging a layered landscape that works with the slope rather than against it.
Materiality plays a defining role throughout the project. Hand-shaped Italian sandstone coping designed and hand-shaped by Mike Cass and the team introduces a crafted, sculptural quality along the pool edge, paired with polished concrete detailing. Inside the pool, a combination of custom-cut Italian sandstone and microcement by Cemher creates a refined surface rarely seen in residential swimming pools, giving the water an inviting soft,
luminous appearance.
Connectivity is a recurring theme. A 6m bridge constructed from mixed reclaimed Australian hardwood links the upper level of the home directly to the pool, reinforcing the sense that the outdoor spaces are an extension of everyday living. A custom-designed white powder-coated stainless-steel fence follows the pool’s curves, ensuring safety without interrupting views or flow.
The landscape design, also by mike CASS creative and executed by Design-it Landscapes, integrates the pool into a broader garden framework. Layered planting — including Buxus, Fatsia, Native Ginger, Liriope, Zoysia and tree ferns — softens built elements and enhances privacy, while lower-level decking by Smartdeck introduces additional zones for relaxation and entertaining.
This is the third collaboration between the owners and the design team, built on trust and a shared belief in renovation over replacement. The clients’ brief was simple but ambitious: a place to gather, entertain and use every inch of the property. The design responds with multiple spaces to come together, whether for big celebrations, long summer days or quiet moments overlooking the water.
More than a facelift, this project demonstrates what’s possible when existing structures are reimagined with care. By responding to constraints, embracing sustainability and prioritising connection, the renovation showcases a contemporary approach to pool design that is as thoughtful as it is inviting.
At a Glance
Pool built by: Design-it Landscapes
Pool designed by: mike CASS creative
Size: Approx. 10m x 5m
Pool interior: microcement by Cemher
Coping: Hand-shaped Italian sandstone with polished concrete detailing
Lighting: Aqua-Quip
Bridge: 6m mixed reclaimed Australian hardwood
Fence: Custom white powder-coated stainless-steel design by mike CASS creative
Landscape design: Mike CASS creative Pty Ltd
Landscape construction: Design-it Landscapes
Pool planting palette: Buxus, Fatsia, Sansevieria trifasciata, Liriope ‘El Marco’, Native Ginger, Rhaphiolepis indica, Zoysia, Cyathea cooperi
Company Profile
Founded by Mike Cass, who has worked in construction and design since age 14, mike CASS creative brings more than 35 years of hands-on industry experience to every project.
Specialising in pool and landscape design and construction, the studio works across Greater Sydney, Byron Bay and regional NSW and Queensland. With a focus on renovation, sustainability and thoughtful transformation, the team delivers bespoke spaces grounded in deep construction knowledge and architectural collaboration.
For more information
Mike CASS creative
A: Willoughby, NSW & Byron Bay, NSW
P: 02 9967 5621