Strathmore Project - Modern Family Pool With A Bit Of Soul

Sophisticated Family Pool

This pool was a bit of a milestone for us. It's the second we've built for these homeowners, which is always a good feeling. We like to think it says something about the quality of our work. When they came to us for another job, the brief was pretty clear - sophisticated, family-friendly, with something special about it.

We spent a fair bit of time getting the design just right. The homeowners were in on the decisions every step of the way, which is how we like to do things. The end result - a 7 metre by 4 metre pool that's got enough space for family fun, a bit of splash, and also those moments when you just want to kick back and have a bit of peace. It's the kind of pool that stands out, sitting there in the backyard as something that's not hiding from anyone.

The design itself plays with contrasts and lines. We went with Bisazza ‘Rachele’ dark mosaic tiles inside. They really do something to the water. Gives it this sort of mysterious feel, almost enigmatic. The deep tiles meet pale paving - a pretty striking balance that draws your eye right up to the house. We've got a frameless glass fence in there too - keeps it modern and sleek without making the area feel boxed in.

What we wanted was something contemporary that still felt like home. Looking at the project now, we reckon we hit the mark. The clean lines in the pool match up with the house architecture. There's this conversation between light and dark that just works, especially because it's consistent with what's happening inside. It's got this mature air about it but doesn't take itself too seriously.

One thing that always sticks out to us with this pool is the way it pulls everything together outdoors. It's the first thing you notice from the alfresco area and, thanks to thoughtful planning, it actually completes the whole backyard space. This isn't one of those pools that's all show and no substance. We wanted it practical too, so we went with a PV3 Automatic Pool Cleaning System from Paramount. That's paired with a filter and variable-speed pump from AstralPool, plus a backup gas heater - so swimming in winter is still an option.

Multicoloured submerged LED lights add that bit of flair and drama at night. We made sure to include an easy way for the owners to control everything - the Connect My Pool app (from AstralPool) means they can adjust temperature, lights, and monitor everything from wherever they want inside. That's convenience.

The whole project for us is a good example of what can happen when you get planning, design, and collaboration working together. It's not just a nice pool - it's also a bit practical, very liveable and sits well in its place. It's good for parties, but also nice when you want to be on your own with a coffee and the paper first thing in the morning.