Options, options, options!
Installing a swimming pool can be one of the most exciting additions to your garden. It creates a place for relaxation, entertaining, and family enjoyment, and when designed well, it can elevate the entire outdoor environment.
However, there are many decisions to consider before choosing the type of pool, its location, and how it integrates into your garden.
Below are some of the most important factors to think about when planning a pool for your Melbourne home.
One of the first decisions homeowners face is choosing between a fibreglass pool and a concrete pool.
Each option has its advantages depending on your priorities.
A quick summary of what to consider is:
To have a more in-depth look at this, read more here: Which is better in Melbourne - a fibreglass or concrete pool?
There is a significant difference between installing a pool on a flat block versus a sloping site. Access is also a consideration when contemplating craning a fibreglass pool over a house.
If craning the fibreglass pool in is just too difficult, then a concrete pool may become the only option.
On sloping blocks, you may be able to have the pool out of the ground, as shown below. With a fibreglass pool this would add considerable retaining wall structure to be built first. Having a pool over 1200mm out of the ground allows you to have no pool fence on that section, which can be very desirable.
Pool size should always be considered in relation to the overall space available.
A pool that is too large can dominate the garden and leave little room for entertaining, planting, or relaxation areas.
Conversely, a pool that is too small may not meet your lifestyle needs.
A well-designed pool should feel proportionate to the garden, balancing water, paving, planting, and usable outdoor areas.
Good landscape design ensures the pool becomes part of the overall outdoor composition rather than simply an isolated feature.
In Melbourne’s climate, pools tend to be used primarily during the warmer months.
A spa, however, can be enjoyed all year round.
For many homeowners, adding a spa creates an opportunity for:
A spa can also become a beautiful visual feature when integrated thoughtfully into the pool design.
While many people install pools for recreation and family enjoyment, others are motivated by the health benefits of water-based activity.
Swimming and water exercise offer:
For some homeowners, incorporating features such as a spa or swim jets can enhance these health benefits.
Understanding how you intend to use the pool will help shape its design and features.
A “beach” or shallow entry zone within the pool has become increasingly popular.
This area provides a gradual transition into the water and can be used for:
It also adds an architectural dimension to the pool design and can enhance the visual connection between the pool and the surrounding landscape.
1. Mineral Pools
Mineral pools have become increasingly popular in Melbourne due to the noticeably softer feel of the water and their potential therapeutic benefits, particularly when magnesium-based minerals are used.
These pools are often chosen by homeowners seeking a more luxurious swimming experience. The water is gentler on the skin and hair, and many people find it more comfortable than traditional systems.
Best suited for: Those seeking a premium swimming experience, people with sensitive skin conditions such as eczema, or homeowners wanting a softer, more natural-feeling pool.
Advantages:
• Water feels softer and more comfortable on the skin
• Lower chemical levels than standard systems
• Potential wellness benefits from magnesium minerals
Considerations:
• Higher upfront setup costs
• Mineral cartridges require periodic replacement
2. Saltwater Pools
Saltwater pools are the most common and practical option across Australia. Rather than manually adding chlorine, a salt chlorinator converts salt into chlorine automatically to keep the water sanitised.
This system is popular because it simplifies maintenance and offers reliable water quality.
Best suited for: Homeowners looking for a convenient and cost-effective system with relatively low maintenance.
Advantages:
• Automatic chlorination reduces manual handling
• Generally lower running costs
• Consistent water sanitation levels
Considerations:
• Salt can contribute to corrosion over time if nearby materials are not suitable
• Care must be taken with certain metals, pool equipment, and surrounding finishes
3. Naked (Freshwater) Systems
Naked or freshwater systems use a combination of copper and silver ionisation with very low levels of oxidation to sanitise the water. The result is water that feels exceptionally clean and gentle — often described as feeling closer to natural freshwater.
These systems are becoming more popular among homeowners seeking a premium pool experience.
Best suited for: Those wanting the most natural-feeling water with minimal chemicals and reduced corrosion risk.
Advantages:
• Very low chemical use
• Reduced irritation to skin and eyes
• Significantly less salt or minerals required
• Environmentally friendly option
Considerations:
• Higher initial installation cost compared to standard systems
4. Traditional Chlorine Pools
Traditional chlorine pools rely on manual dosing with liquid or granular chlorine to maintain sanitation levels.
While this method has been used for many years and has a lower initial installation cost, it generally requires more ongoing maintenance and chemical management.
Best suited for: Situations where the lowest initial setup cost is the priority.
Advantages:
• Effective at quickly restoring water quality if a pool becomes contaminated or algae develops
Considerations:
• Higher ongoing chemical use
• Can be harsher on skin, eyes, and hair
• Requires more regular manual maintenance
This is a common question. When you have more than one pool builder's quote in front of you, it can be confusing to understand the difference between one system and another or even one brand against another.
First, you should ask the pool builder to explain the differences. Then, if you want an unbiased opinion, you could go to somewhere like a Poolwerx shop and ask for their opinion. Someone who looks after pool equipment can offer advice based on years of experience and what they've seen as best.
Variable Speed Pool Pump
A variable-speed pool pump plays a central role in how your pool operates. It circulates water for filtration, supports cleaning systems, and is essential for heating.
So, which one should you choose?
That’s a topic in itself. Factors such as price, quality, and performance all come into play, much like deciding which car to buy.
A good approach is to seek multiple perspectives. Speak with your pool builder, but also consult a pool equipment servicing contractor to gain a broader understanding. Keep in mind that some builders may favour a particular brand based on what they typically install.
Filtration
Things to consider are, water restrictions, pool size, leaf litter, etc.
Sanitization
The options are:
Salt Chlorinator: Converts salt into chlorine, providing a "natural" sanitation process.
Mineral Chlorinators: A popular alternative to traditional salt, adding magnesium for a more comfortable, skin-friendly swim
Visit a pool shop and discuss your needs to uncover what might be best for you.
Cleaning your pool:
If you wish to extend your swimming season, pool heating may be worth considering.
Common heating options include:
Each has different installation costs, running costs, and heating performance.
Your choice will depend on how often you plan to use the pool and how quickly you want the water heated.
A pool cover can significantly improve the efficiency and practicality of owning a pool.
Benefits include:
There are several different types of covers available, each with its own advantages.
Because this topic involves a number of considerations, we have written a separate article explaining the options in detail.
Read more here: All you need to know about installing a pool cover roller
Installing a pool is not simply about choosing a shape or material. It involves balancing design, functionality, lifestyle needs, and practical considerations.
When thoughtfully integrated into a well-designed garden, a pool can become the centrepiece of an outdoor space that brings years of enjoyment.
If you are considering installing a pool as part of a new landscape project, taking the time to explore these factors early will help ensure the final result is both beautiful and practical.
One final thought for you
Designing a pool and having it installed before consulting with a designer on what the rest of the garden might look like is like building a garage and then asking an architect to design the house around it.
Always begin a conversation with a designer before finalising a pool to be installed. Your designer considers the entire project to be in harmony and to best meet your needs.
No. We source pool builders for you and coordinate with them throughout the design and build phases
No. There is much technical knowledge, and this is best sourced directly from those who best understand it.
Yes. We will work with you on selecting the various pool surrounding requirements throughout the design phase.
Thank you for reading this, and I hope it has been of help.
Andrew Whyte