Key insider advice on pool design straight from the Blue Crew
September 3, 2023
We all know that pools have come a long way in the last two decades, but do you know how to create your very own modern, low-maintenance, and automated oasis? Stick with us and we’ll guide you through making informed decisions to bring your dream pool to life in the best way possible.
Establishing the Pool Plan: The Art of Personalisation
At Blue Haven Pools & Spas, we strongly believe that no two pools should be the same. Just as every home tells a story about its residents, a pool is more than just a water body – it’s a reflection of your lifestyle, aesthetic sensibility, and even your personality. To create this personalised oasis, the initial brief is crucial. It’s a stage where we get to explore your ideas, requirements, and expectations.
This phase revolves around identifying the “Who” and “What” aspects of the pool project. Everyone has unique requirements from their pool, whether it’s aesthetics, functionality, or both. Some want a pool for exercise, others for entertainment or therapeutic relaxation. And, of course, many parents see a pool as an engaging way to expend their kids’ energy! Once we establish your requirements, we delve into the “Where” factor, exploring the best place to site your pool considering aspect, visual impact, safety, and build-ability.
Budgeting & Cost Considerations: Keeping it Real
It’s beneficial to have a clear understanding of your budget from the outset. We believe in designing what can be realistically achieved. This means considering all expenses related to your pool, not just the pool itself. These expenses can encompass gas supply for heaters, power supplies, potential fence adjustments, and filtration enclosures. If you want to delve deeper into this subject, read our blog that reveals the truth about pool construction costs.
From our experience, many overlook the cost associated with the surrounding landscape in pool projects. While it’s common to assume the pool might be the main expense, landscaping can also add to the overall costs. Thus, we suggest allocating your budget thoughtfully between the pool and landscape for a harmonious result.
Aesthetic Sensibilities: Marrying Function with Beauty
At Blue Haven Pools & Spas, we’re passionate about ensuring your pool is a delight to the eyes. While the functionality of your pool is crucial, we believe that the look of your pool is just as important. After all, you will gaze at your pool more often than you swim in it, so why not make it visually stunning?
Designing a pool that feels at home in its space is where the magic starts. We strive to create a balance – a pool that isn’t too big or too small, but fits seamlessly into its environment. This rule can be relaxed if the pool is mainly for therapeutic or exercise reasons. However, a geometric shape that resonates with the surrounding architecture is an aesthetic rule we stand by.
Functionality & Compliance: Essential Boxes to Tick
A well-designed pool should effortlessly blend aesthetics and functionality. We consider every potential use of the pool, whether it’s a family pool, a lap pool, or a spa. Our design process puts a keen focus on what the pool will be used for the most, ensuring it fits your specific requirements.
Additionally, compliance to local laws and regulations is a non-negotiable aspect of our design process. Ensuring that every pool we build is not just beautiful and functional, but also safe and legal, is our top priority. We take great care in understanding and adhering to local laws, providing detailed advice on fencing and necessary permits.
Rules set by local councils serve as the linchpin for any pool construction undertaking. While these regulations differ across Australian states, they generally encompass safety protocols, standards for pool fencing, water consumption, and noise management.
In the case of New South Wales, the process for adherence includes potential geotechnical, acid sulphate, and arborist reports, as well as surveyor plans.
The duration of this process can span several months and varies according to your local council and the pool type. To expedite the process, if eligible, engaging a private certifier may be worth considering.
For comprehensive guidelines, consider visiting the NSW Planning Portal or getting in touch with your local council.
Creative Exploration: Think Outside the Pool Box
Our team thrives on creative challenges. With every pool we design, we see an opportunity to innovate and push boundaries. We believe that pools can be much more than standard in-ground installations. Ever thought of front yards, rooftops, basements, or cliff tops as potential pool spots? With us, the possibilities are endless!
While we love innovative ideas, we also understand the need for practical build-ability. That’s why our designs always consider factors like soil classifications, proximity to other properties, adjacent buildings, and underground works. It’s all about striking the right balance between dream designs and practical realities.
Your Pool Dream: Let’s Dive In!
Designing a pool is a complex, creative, and technical process. The best piece of advice we can offer is to invest in a professional designer or pool expert from the beginning. It will be the best money you spend on your journey towards realising your dream pool.
Once you’re ready, you can send any site plans and sewer diagrams to sales@bluehaven.com.au. Our team will review your site levels and any underground restrictions. From there, we can help you set a realistic budget, assess local government approvals, and formalise your structural costs and cosmetic touches. In the end, we make sure you’re able to dominate your pool purchase and be proud of it.
At Blue Haven Pools & Spas, we’re more than just a team of pool builders. We’re creators of your personal oasis, enablers of a lifestyle dream, and partners in a journey towards creating your own little paradise. Let’s dive in!
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