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Pool side - beat the summer heat


Australian summers are defined by long days in the pool and warm summer nights by the barbecue. Entertaining friends and spending time with family outside has never been more popular, leading the trend for al fresco space becoming the centerpiece of the modern family home.

By placing coping steppers atop concrete platforms lined with the same blue ceramic tiles of the pool and spa, the illusion of a floating walkway is achieved

By placing coping steppers atop concrete platforms lined with the same blue ceramic tiles of the pool and spa, the illusion of a floating walkway is achieved


With so much time now being spent outdoors, it has never been more important to get the right advice on design elements to make sure that the al fresco area you design today will meet your needs well into the future. Property Centerpiece spoke to David Jarman from Coolabah Landscape Victoria, who emphasized that great design and the right designer is key to an outdoor living area that is both visually stunning and practical.


Arial photo of landscaped driveway and part garden

From above, the geometric lines of this front courtyard design are made satisfyingly clear. Coolabah Landscapes constructed everything within this space including the driveway


The possibilities for your backyard are endless, with al fresco areas now incorporating fully functional kitchens and bars, swimming pools, roofing systems, heating and cooling, lighting and so much more. With travel options limited, Australian families are taking the opportunity to create outdoors areas that instantly put them into relaxation mode and provide the kind of lifestyle experienced on an overseas holiday.

Using a combination of materials such as metal, wood, pebbles, and tiles adds dimension and layers of texture

Using a combination of materials such as metal, wood, pebbles, and tiles adds dimension and layers of texture


David Jarman, who is also principal of Victorian company Coolabah Landscapes, urges homeowners to do their research and take their time in the planning stage to guarantee an al fresco area that is functional and that adds value to the property. “Done well”, says David “and the addition of an outdoor living area should add in excess of $50,000 to the value of any property.”


This Balinese-inspired courtyard pool was designed to create the feeling of stepping straight from the loungeroom into a tropical oasis

This Balinese-inspired courtyard pool was designed to create the feeling of stepping straight from the loungeroom into a tropical oasis


Many homeowners are choosing to upgrade outdoor areas as a cheaper alternative to moving, but when the time does come to sell the impact of a beautifully landscaped front yard and an entertainer’s delight out the back adds zeros to the final sale price.


Bluestone pavers give a quintessential Melbournian feel, while the sleek lines of the pool and fencing combine for an elegant and modern finish

Bluestone pavers give a quintessential Melbournian feel, while the sleek lines of the pool and fencing combine for an elegant and modern finish


Coolabah Landscapes are experts in taking their clients’ ideas and turning them into a reality. They take their time to listen to your vision, soak in the site of the build and to create designs that maximise the potential of your backyard (or front yard). Coolabah can simply provide a design, allowing you to use your own contractors, or they can take your area from ground zero to an outdoor space that you will never want to leave.


Playing around with different heights helps to create a more eye - catching space. The longer you look, the more details there are to enjoy in this organised yet wild-feeling garden

Playing around with different heights helps to create a more eye - catching space. The longer you look, the more details there are to enjoy in this organised yet wild-feeling garden


This all-rounder project included the construction of a gorgeous new pool and spa, decking built over the old pool, installation of six bifold doors, floor re-epoxying, and the construction of a fully equipped outdoor kitchen and dining area

This all-rounder project included the construction of a gorgeous new pool and spa, decking built over the old pool, installation of six bifold doors, floor re-epoxying, and the construction of a fully equipped outdoor kitchen and dining area


It’s never too early to start planning your own backyard haven. Taking the time to spend an hour or two with a reputable landscaper will start the ball rolling, and a good organization will take the lead and present you with concepts and images within four to six weeks. A process of collaboration usually follows (unless they hit the nail on the head the first time!) and your feedback Is incorporated to make sure that your dream al fresco area becomes a reality.


Your builder can take the pain out of the process, applying for approvals and liaising with contractors so that all you need to do is give them access to your space and start working on your invitations for the big reveal! We recommend putting on a cheeseboard and a cheeky sauv blanc or a juicy Wagyu steak cooked to perfection on your new four burner barbecue!


For more information about how you can create your own haven, contact Coolabah Landscaping Pool & Construction



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