St Heliers

The Brief

A complete overhaul of a large unused, and relatively untouched, garden was requested by the clients, with a new pool and spa within the backyard that could accommodate the active family of 4 being the centrepiece of the scheme. The orientation of the existing house on site left a number of somewhat awkward shaped spaces to navigate, so tailoring a concept that responded to these, while still clearly connecting to the architecture, was crucial. Split level access from the rear internal areas also needed to be carefully considered to ensure internal access to the pool and garden, as well as access between the outdoor areas, was seamless.

The Concept

In a backyard space that was generous, but not expansive, getting all the components of the scheme in place without cramping that space was the initial challenge. This informed the shape and location of the pool, with the triangular form being positioned into the south western corner of the site. This not only maximises pool space, but also aims to capture natural light and create separation and a strong visual connection from the house.

The out of ground pool creates both a feature and a connection in the central section, with the off form concrete wall here creating a backdrop for the mass planting of native grasses aligned with the lawn and covered lounge spaces, while also eliminating the need for pool fencing.

Custom timber decking alongside the pool creates comfortable access and poolside lounging spaces within the pool area. This language is continued through to the southern alfresco space, where terraced decking links from house to outdoor kitchen, through to central seating and pool and garden beyond. Both outdoor kitchen and outdoor lounge spaces are framed and protected by custom steel structures providing shade in the warmer months, whilst still allowing natural light into the internal living spaces through winter.

Tucked around the southern side of the house an open astro turf area for a variety of sports has been created, with the extents defined by evergreen boundary planting. This links through to the front garden. This area includes an open lawn space complete with informal seating and a dedicated section of garden for edibles, able to be accessed from both kids bedrooms.

Features

Off form concrete pool wall, custom concrete pool and spa, timber feature screening and fencing, organic stone steppers and crazy paving, built in BBQ bench, custom concrete steps and seating, olives, japanese maple, arthropodium cirratum, ligularia reniformis