5 pool trends to watch in 2018
Was it your new year’s resolution to finally install a pool? Make a splash now with the latest trends, courtesy of these Aussie experts.
Ask any landscape architect, and they’ll likely tell you the single most important thing to keep in mind when designing you pool is to adhere to your home’s style.
“Ensure that the pool aesthetic, shape and finish reflects your home’s style,” says Chris Mahoney, director and landscape architect at Verde Design Group. “You wouldn’t put a coastal-themed kitchen into a mid-century modern home, and the same applies for your pool.”
Sophie Greive, landscape architect at Think Outside Gardens, agrees and advises that aspiring pool owners design and choose finishes for their swimming pool with their house’s architecture in mind.
Though both experts believe a simplistic, rectangular pool will stand the test of time, Chris and Sophie also predict a handful of trends for the year ahead.
1. Outside-in
Pools should no longer be confined to the far reach of the backyard. In 2018, Chris predicts we’ll begin to see a more streamlined integration between outdoor entertaining areas and the blue lagoon.
Whether achieved by glass sliding doors, clever landscaping or a close-for-comfort lap pool along the side of one’s home, space will be better utilised to ensure the maximum use of a pool trans-seasonally.
A private indoor pool in your own home is the ultimate luxury. Picture: Getty
2. Monochrome
“Continued popularity of white or light blue pool interiors give a crisp and contemporary look,” says Sophie. When paired with a tiled black spa, it can also provide a bold and sophisticated edge.
Looking for a more understated application of monochrome magic? Sophie predicts black- or charcoal-coated fences will make a resurgence.
“We’re starting to see more glass pool fences on black spigots rather than stainless steel – it’s very much in line with the increased use of black tapware and fittings inside the house,” she says.
This Mosman abode showcases monochromatic hues throughout. Picture: realestate.com.au/buyThis Mosman abode showcases monochromatic hues throughout. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy
3. Smart pools
The future is here, people. Automation features such as lighting, temperature control, cleaning and audio can now integrate with your home systems and be controlled by smartphone apps.
Just imagine heating up your spa and queuing your favourite relaxation playlist as you head home from work on a chilly, winter’s evening…
Hit the lights from your commute. This Melbourne penthouse pool is giving us midnight swim envy. Picture: realestate.com.au/buyHit the lights from your commute. This Melbourne penthouse pool is giving us midnight swim envy. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy
4. Elevated
Elevated pools are set to creep out of their Hollywood movie confines and into your home this year.
Chris predicts pools will become better integrated with architecture in 2018, so as to take advantage of space and views.
Though you may instinctively gravitate to the space beyond the deck when installing a pool, this year we’re invited to think outside of the backyard, and start looking above our garages, common rooms or even on the roof.
Imagine taking a dip in this epic glass-bottomed pool… Picture: Ricardo Oliveira AlvesImagine taking a dip in this epic glass-bottomed pool… Picture: Ricardo Oliveira Alves
5. Wet-edge
Both landscape architects agree wholeheartedly that infinity pools are here to stay.
“Infinity edges continue to be popular, and are stunning when you’re lucky enough to have a view beyond,” Sophie says.
“A good idea is to choose the colour of your pool’s interior to match the hues of the water beyond – this is when a blue or green interior looks right.”
Does a view get better than that of this Seaforth home? We think not. Picture: realestate.com.au/buyDoes a view get better than that of this Seaforth home? We think not. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy
Source: realestate.com.au