Australia’s Pool of the Year

Awarded Australia’s Pool of the Year and Australia’s Best Pool and Spa Combination, this spectacular project created by MINT Design and constructed by TLC Pools exemplifies an outdoor living environment that has been beautifully integrated with both the home and the natural surrounds.

For Scott Wynd, who is both a Director and Designer at MINT Design and also Director of TLC Pools, the accolades this project has received are particularly special as it’s his own home. Starting construction back in April 2020, the project was a labour of love taking many years to complete, both as a result of the complexity of the build, which required meticulous attention to detail, as well as working in between balancing the demands of client projects.

Working with a challenging site with a consistent westward slope, the location’s rocky, hard ground presented numerous difficulties. The design however which is nothing short of inspiring has utilised the natural topography to create a visually stunning tiered landscape that utilises circles and curves which soften the angular lines of the adjacent contemporary residence.

The focus of the design was to create a garden that seamlessly connected with the home, making the pool a striking focal point that could be appreciated from both the upper and lower levels. The vision for the space called for a contemporary style, with an emphasis on strong architectural elements, resulting in a refined and sophisticated, yet serene and inviting ambiance. To preserve unobstructed views and a connection between the water and surrounding landscape, the pool’s height was expertly planned to avoid the need for fencing.

Expert craftsmanship is clearly visible in the construction of the spectacular custom pool and spa which have far too many features to mention. Noteworthy however are the curved edges which have been finished in gorgeous mosaic tiles. Incredible precision was required to ensure that the water flowed consistently over the negative edge. Limestone pavers which were beautifully laid in a herringbone pattern on the surrounding alfresco area, were also continued to the edges of the pool requiring each individual paver to be sealed on all sides. Flashing around the overlapping deck and a carefully selected material palette ensure that the area is not only practical but also visually stunning.

A series of circular platforms appear like giant stepping stones, leading down to a cylindrical water storage tank that has been paved on the top. With a picturesque backdrop of mature trees, it creates a wonderful space for cozy gatherings around the firepit.

Lighting is a key element in this stunning outdoor space – carefully positioned at different levels to create ambiance while also providing practical illumination. At the heart is a BBQ equipped with marine-grade stainless steel for longevity which has been built around the homes supporting posts, the concealed lighting giving it a floating effect.

The garden’s softscape features a carefully curated selection of both exotic and native plants. Notable choices include Ligularia (Tractor Seat Plant), Pyrus (Snow Pear), and Teucrium, selected for their distinctive shapes, vibrant foliage, and their capacity to integrate smoothly with the natural bush setting, creating a balanced and cohesive landscape.

The time and effort that has gone into this project has been well worth the reward of Australia’s Pool of the Year – resulting in a beautiful space for Scott and his family to enjoy as well as the well deserved industry recognition.

See more at tlcpools.com.au and mintdesign.com.au