Elevate a sloping site with a compact pool and alfresco leisure zone

This gorgeous project by The Little Pool Co. proves that even the most difficult backyards can accommodate a pool. The owners of this property in the Greater Newcastle area of New South Wales engaged the experts at The Little Pool Co. to design an outdoor pool area for their steeply sloped and rocky rear yard in 2021. The clients wanted a visually appealing pool that wouldn’t overwhelm the usable space of their yard, while also being in direct eye-sight of the home so they could keep an eye on their children when they swam in it.

An initial meeting with The Little Pool Co. representatives confirmed the suitability of the site for such an installation, and provided the clients with a quick and easy selection process to get the project started. “They were able to choose from our eight pool styles, then select one of our four ‘Vivid’ ceramic colour finishes for the fibreglass pool interior,” says Anthony Cross of The Little Pool Co. “The ‘Vivid’ ceramic colour range is crafted from a unique combination of pigmented gelcoat, glitter and large reflective chips to create a contemporary granite-effect finish, which then influences what colour the water appears once the pool is filled. The homeowners chose this ‘Ice Blue’ colour, which reflects a clear blue sky likeness that the homeowners can enjoy from their elevated view.”

Read now: Turn your backyard into a space for socialisation and exercise with one new addition

Previously, the land was unused by the homeowners due to its steep drop-off. However, once it was excavated to the appropriate depth to fit a level concrete platform, the slope ended up working in the customers’ favour. “A freestanding little pool was very appealing to the client as the top of the pool and a surrounding decking could then be matched to the ground level on which the house stands on the slope,” says Anthony. 

The client then collaborated with local building company, A.N. Harvey Building, to attach a large deck and pergola to create a usable space approximately double the size it previously was. This particular little pool design is also easy for the children to climb in and out of, easy to clean and adds value to the home. A built-in blanket and roller system ensures the view from the house is uninterrupted when the pool is not in use, while keeping the pool area clean and clutter-free.

Read now: 9 best shade-lovings plants for Australian gardens

The design and installation process for a pool such as this is simple and straightforward, says Anthony. Once the pool style and colour is chosen, customers choose if they require coping and cladding. The Little Pool Co. then provides engineering drawings of the proposed project to the client, who can use these plans to engage local contractors of their choice and apply for council permits. Once a suitable concrete slab or steel platform for the pool has been constructed, the pool is delivered.

“On the day of delivery, the pool is transported to the customers home by their chosen crane hire company and placed on the slab or steel platform,” says Anthony. “The pool may then be filled and used the day it arrives, provided fencing requirements have been met and there are no other building works yet to be completed around the pool.” Due to the lightweight and slim nature of this particular pool, the crane was easily able to float it over the house and set it into place with a total cost of around $2000, including transport.

See more projects by The Little Pool Co. on ArchiPro.