Celebrating Gold at the 2025 SPASA Awards of Excellence
This project proudly took out Gold for Courtyard / Small Pool up to $40,000 at the 2025 SPASA Awards of Excellence, proof that size is no barrier to making a big splash. Compact yet luxurious, this plunge pool shows just how transformative a small-scale design can be when every detail is carefully considered.
Embracing the Plunge Pool Lifestyle
When this Ocean Grove family traded their sprawling semi-rural property for a townhouse, they wanted the best of both worlds: a central location and a low-maintenance lifestyle, without sacrificing the joy of having a pool. Their brief was clear; design a plunge pool that was space-savvy, visually stunning and affordable to build and run.
Plunge pools are perfect for downsizers and smaller blocks. They offer the cooling, relaxing benefits of a traditional pool in a footprint that fits neatly into courtyards or small spaces, all the while enhancing the look, feel and value of the home.
Designing a Pool to Fit the Space and the Lifestyle
We delivered a 3m x 2m solar-heated concrete plunge pool lined with hazy green mosaics to evoke the feel of a rainforest lagoon. The compact size allowed us to focus on luxurious detailing rather than sheer scale.
Future flexibility was also built in: provision for a gas heater means the pool could easily become a spa down the track, giving the owners year-round enjoyment without the upfront cost.
Overcoming Space Challenges with Creative Thinking
The original design featured a long, slim pool down the side of the house, perfectly positioned to reflect shimmering light through a wall of east-facing windows. But after our excavation specialists assessed the access, it became clear that machinery couldn’t reach the space without costly underpinning of the house and neighbour’s driveway.
Rather than abandon the idea, we relocated and resized the pool to the front courtyard. This clever pivot solved the access issues, eliminated prohibitive costs, and created a beautiful water feature-style entry visible from the lounge and upstairs living areas.
A Tranquil Courtyard Oasis
The surroundings play a big part in the pool’s appeal. Bamboo screening provides privacy and height, while a Merbau deck, arbour and natural stone pavers add warmth and texture. Frameless glass fencing preserves the lush garden outlook.
We chose small 25mm tiles to suit the scale of the pool and allow for the custom curved bench seat, designed for lounging and chatting rather than diving or playing. This subtle curve softens the geometric lines and echoes the arched roofline of the home.
A Luxe Escape Without Overcapitalising
This award-winning plunge pool proves that small spaces can deliver big impact. It ticks every box for downsizers: low-maintenance, efficient, cost-conscious and beautifully designed. Surrounded by greenery and natural textures, it feels like a private resort tucked right into the front yard and it’s completely transformed how the family enjoys their home.
To start your own backyard transformation, get in touch with our team today.
