Keeping your home swimming pool warm throughout the year can be a costly and energy-intensive endeavour. But with innovative products and smarter design, it doesn’t have to be.
Across Sydney, residents have access to a number of exceptional aquatic centres. However, the distribution of these pools isn’t equal – nine out of 10 NSW local government areas live more than 20 minutes away from an outdoor pool, according to new data. And this isn’t just a matter of population density – some councils have more than 30,000 people per pool, while others, like Mosman, have less than 7,000.
The symbiotic relationship between swimming pools and their surrounding landscapes continues to be a hot topic for debate. As such, many pool designers are now opting for natural finishes to create pools that are both beautiful and environmentally friendly. Whether you’re building a brand new home, or refurbishing your existing pool, our experts explore some of the latest pool design trends that will transform your backyard.
Fibreglass pools are a great option for anyone who wants to enjoy the benefits of an indoor and outdoor lifestyle, but doesn’t want to deal with the maintenance and upkeep that comes with a concrete pool. These pools are prefabricated from a mould and are delivered to your home in a kit form, which makes them easy to install. With their low chemical and electricity usage, fibreglass pools are also more environmentally friendly than traditional concrete pools.
But while they have their perks, there are some downsides to the technology. Fibreglass pools are limited in the shapes, sizes and designs they can be made in, which means if you don’t pick the right one to suit your site and needs, it’s unlikely you’ll ever be happy with it.
The Sydney coastline is wild and full of crashing surf, but ocean pools have been built to harness the power of the sea while providing an area that’s safe for swimming. These picturesque baths, often found on ‘must-do’ and best outdoor pools lists, have a rich history that spans almost 200 years.
In the past, ocean pools were a hub for recreational and competitive swimmers who wanted to swim safely from the surf without having to battle the waves. The popularity of these pools waned in the late 19th century as more people turned to organised swimming clubs and the sport of diving. But despite the changing times, ocean pools continue to be an important part of Sydney’s heritage and a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. In this week’s motions at City of Sydney, Lane Cove and Inner West councils, Greens and independent councillors are calling for discounted entry fees for these pools, hoping to build on the success of a trial in Snowy Valleys that saw swimming and aquarobics classes increase by 241 per cent but only a 1.5 per cent rise in operating costs. If the motions are passed, they would join councils across Australia that have already lowered their pool entrance fees.