🖼️
The project:
We had an unused and unloved corner at the back of the house that never really served a purpose. Around that time, my wife was recovering from cancer, and we wanted to create a small, peaceful pool retreat where she could relax, rebuild her strength and enjoy some quiet moments outdoors.
With a tight budget of $5000 (including a new pond shell) by doing almost all the work myself we set out to transform that forgotten area. Most of the materials came from Bunnings, which made it possible to keep costs down while still creating a space that felt calming.
I should point out that we had the pond shell certified as suitable for a swimming pool before we started. The pool area also complies with WA's swimming pool regulations. It's one of the reasons we have the fencing above it, and there are two self-closing pool gates isolating the area from the rest of the house.
- Materials:
- Tools:
- Step 1:
Prepare area - clear vegetation and grass and dig hole for pool shell, paint back fence and retaining walls and install fence panels.
- Step 2:
Paint pond shell and install pipework for pool circulation.
- Step 3:
Install pool and backfill with cement stabilised soil/sand while filling with water.
Connect pool to piping to pump.
- Step 4:
Cast landscape stepping stones, lay grass and install paving.
- Step 5:
Complete landscaping, install pump/filter/chlorinator system, pump cover, towel hooks, and firepit.
- Help and inspiration:
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More inspiration for your backyard
Bunnings Workshop member Starfishlane completed a courtyard makeover with a large planter pot used as a plunge pool.
Experienced community member ProjectPete documented his custom concrete pool build journey.
Get more inspiration for your pool area from 10 makeover ideas for your pool.
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