Design and build a rainforest-inspired lap pool accessed via a suspension bridge? Challenge accepted!
Incorporating the client brief for a “Springbrook Rainforest-inspired pool that we can do laps in”, this stunning design seamlessly blends an executive home with a destination pool via a suspension bridge. Yes, a bridge!
The lap section of the pool smoothly transitions into a wider area for family fun, with a fully tiled splash bench. Glow-in-the-dark tiles were also incorporated, intended to reflect the glowing creatures of Springbrook. Natural flagstone quartz paving, a rock water feature, custom timber in-situ benches and original organic fencing complete this stunning geometric lap pool.
Good design organically combines both form and function, according to Sean Lynch, landscape architect and managing director of Ecozen Pools + Landscapes, the Brisbane company that designed and built all aspects of the outdoor area. “We achieved this by reclaiming unused sloping land and creatively integrating a stylish pool and outdoor area for our lovely clients, a family with three energetic children who all love the water, to use year-round,” explains Sean. “It’s visually stunning from all aspects, while also blending into a lap and family pool with innovative use of lines. At Ecozen our key philosophy is to design our projects with the intrinsic beauty of the site in mind. This project really exemplifies this philosophy as it was created to work with and enhance the natural beauty of the space.”
It’s no surprise that the Ashgrove project won several Gold awards at the SPASA 2020 awards, for National Pool Landscape Design, National Innovative Project, Queensland Pool Landscape Design and Queensland Innovative Project. “In addition to these awards, the end product has exceeded the clients’ expectations,” says Sean.
“However, during the build, the biggest challenge for us was how to get from the house to the pool zone without having to go up and down lots of steps. The solution was to connect the house deck to the pool zone via a suspension bridge, so no steps are required. Other challenges included getting the build area rezoned through town planning, and aesthetically positioning the 15m pool around waterway easements. Structurally, piers and footings were used. Building footings for a bridge was a first for our experienced team, but it was a challenge that they enjoyed.”
Sean Lynch started Ecozen Pools + Landscapes 22 years ago and now builds 50 bespoke pool and landscape projects a year. The company’s specialty is designing and constructing personalised spaces for clients who enhance their home and lifestyle.
The Ecozen design process starts with a site meeting to discuss the design brief and concepts, then a 3D design presentation for homeowners to experience their project and make any changes before the construction of the final plan.
As environmentally-friendly pool design and products are top priorities for Ecozen, the company uses as standard only energy-efficient equipment, which saves both the environment and clients money. “We extended this commitment in 2020 by proudly becoming Climate Care Certified,” says Sean.
Ecozen Pools + Landscapes is a member of the Swimming Pool and Spa Association (SPASA), Master Builders Queensland (MBQLD) and the Housing Industry Association (HIA). In addition to the awards received for the Ashgrove project, at the 2020 SPASA Awards, Ecozen also achieved Highly Commended for Residential Lighting Feature and Residential Water Feature, and designer Rhiannon Royall won Gold 2020 National and Qld Salesperson of the Year.
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