Shrinking Spaces
Shrinking land availability and a desire to remain closer to urban centres is changing client expectations when it comes to homes. While the land size may be smaller, there’s still a desire for all the bells and whistles, plus the all-important element of surprise. That doesn’t mean dreams of pool ownership are dying, the ideas are just becoming more creative.
Take the plunge
Demand for plunge pools, lap pools and spas is peaking, as home owners seek to enjoy resort-style living on a smaller footprint. Easily fitted into small spaces, plunge pools are small, deep pools ideal for relaxation and soaking. A little less exercise-friendly than lap pools, plunge pools are a cost-effective and equally refreshing backyard option.
Lap pools designs are also becoming more creative by the day. Traditionally built parallel to the house, many feature high-powered jets that allow swimmers to do laps in a much smaller space than a standard pool. Rather than being constricted, pool builders are increasingly creating designs that capitalise on odd-shaped backyard areas and utilise space which would otherwise be wasted, allowing homeowners to capitalise on and enjoy every square inch of their property.
The design edge
Even the much-desired infinity edge pool will work in small pool de-signs. An ever-popular trend, infinity pools can be ideal for smaller, split level or sloping blocks, and they have the added benefit of drawing reduced debris build-up and therefore being easier to clean than some other designs.
Landscaping is particularly important when designing pools for small spaces. if you’re looking for that ‘wow’ factor, you can opt for water features, lighting and decking as well. When working with smaller spaces, it’s best to opt for clean and simple lines with a monochromatic colour palette that ties all of the elements together. Clever planting will also help blur the lines between indoor and outdoor entertaining areas.
Are you in or out?
The Australian climate allows us to make the most of the great outdoors, with exterior rooms becoming a significant design focus in recent years. As our summers bleed into both spring and autumn, it makes sense to spend more time outside and to maximise enjoyment from your swimming pool and backyard investment.
Homeowners and designers are increasingly creating entire outdoor entertainment zones that incorporate outdoor kitchens and relaxation areas that rival the home’s interior areas. Even small spaces can feature comfortable furnishings, lighting and planting designed to create a feeling of luxury rivalling the world’s best resorts.
Smaller land size and difficult shaped blocks no longer preclude pool ownership as they once did, with pool designs and construction techniques increasingly adapting to the shifting demands of the market. Some of the most interesting SPASA award winning designs in recent years sit on the smallest footprint. If you’re thinking about maximising available land area and want to know more, find your nearest SPASA member (www.spasa.com.au) and start planning.