2025 National Pool of the year awards Entrant
Despite a tornado ripping through this acreage site and causing disaster and devastation, its new infinity-edge pool exudes a sense of calm and connection with nature
The Gold Coast site chosen for this stunning infinity-edge pool, two acres in Upper Coomera on the side of a hill, exudes an abundance of peace and tranquillity. However, in late December 2023, the story was very different, with a tornado passing through and either destroying or badly damaging many of the surrounding homes, including this one. The pool, however, stood strong, and offered the family some enjoyment as they rebuilt their lives.
The homeowners, Matt and Missy Emery, also own Driftwood Pools, so it was only natural they would take on the design and build of their new pool. “We created this pool as part of a huge home renovation project, and also to kickstart our new business — Driftwood Pools,” explains Matt, who has worked in the pool industry for almost 20 years but is new to the Gold Coast pool industry.
Due to the site’s huge slope, the 7m-long pool sits on 14 bored piers, situated 3m deep. With its minimalist design, the infinity-edge, L-shaped pool overlooks the gorgeous valley, enjoying million-dollar views. “I was inspired by the natural contour of the land with the existing view,” says Matt. “It was all about accentuating the sunset views and clean-cut lines. I believe that good design involves elegance and simplicity, working with your surroundings and the nature provided, not against it, and connecting with the house and landscape so as not to create a complete juxtaposition.”
Although most pool builds often face challenges such as bad weather, the weather extremes encountered on this project were next level. “During the pool build, just as we were close to completion, we experienced a tornado,” recalls Matt.
“The eye of the tornado passed right over us. All the homes on the street were completely torn apart and most didn’t survive. Our home was reparable, but the damage was in the hundreds of thousands of dollars and we were left homeless for seven months. The pool, however, survived in perfect condition, and we were able to use it even through the worst of times after we had lost everything. The view had certainly changed, but we have watched as the greenery eventually started to return.”
The outdoor space has all been rebuilt since the tornado. The family added a large grassed area and incorporated an outdoor kitchen with a brick fireplace.
Despite the nightmare that Matt and his family endured, their project now fits perfectly with the proportions of the dwelling and allows the user to engage with all that this breathtaking landscape has to offer.
Company Profile
Director Matt Emery started Driftwood Pools in 2024 and has constructed high-end, award-winning pools for almost 20 years, primarily in Melbourne. Matt has brought his expertise to Queensland and is currently working on several projects in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast.
Driftwood Pools aims to build about 20 to 25 pools a year, ranging from modern infinity-edge pools to elegant curved spas. “Our bespoke swimming pool construction business is a family-run operation dedicated to creating custom pools of unmatched sophistication for our clients,” says Matt. “Our specialty is automation and in-floor cleaning, plus other details such as spas, acrylic windows, swimjets and automated covers.”
Following an initial on-site consultation with the client, Matt guides them step by step through the whole pool building process, ensuring absolute peace of mind.
At a Glance
Pool designed by: Driftwood Pools
Pool built by: Driftwood Pools
Size of pool: 7m x 4m
Heating: Madimack heat pump
Cleaning: Paramount PCC in-floor cleaning for low maintenance
Filtration: Pentair sand filter
Coping: Concrete — Covercrete
Interior: 100 per cent glass Pebblecrete
Lighting: Spa Electrics MultiPlus LEDs
Landscaping: Native Australian plants
For more information
Driftwood Pools
A: 16 Otmoor Rd, Upper Coomera Qld
P: 0484 563 437
E: matt@driftwoodpools.com