Why the pool boom shows no signs of slowing down

Pools have become a focal point for families building new homes. Gone are the days when a house was just a collection of walls that met basic needs. Today, homes are evolving into personal health retreats and year-round luxury resorts, with pools taking centre stage.

Growing up in Australia, a day at the beach was often the highlight of summer. Surf, ice cream, hot chips, and sun-soaked afternoons were staples of childhood. If you or a neighbour had a pool, summers were filled with swimming, water fights, and wrestling with the Creepy Crawler. But let’s be honest—life has moved on from those simpler times. The beach has turned into a logistical headache (hello sand, parking struggles, and cabana overload), and pools are no longer just a kids’ playground. They’re so much more.

Wellness is now front and centre in our lifestyles—or at least, we’d like it to be. Pools have become a hub for morning cold plunges, post-workout cooldowns, laps for fitness (space permitting), and year-round relaxation thanks to heating. Families are trading beach trips for poolside afternoons, designing homes that bring the water closer to their backyards. Here’s why:

1. Total investment in the block

The value of a home isn’t just in the walls; it’s in the entire block. Adding a pool maximises the potential of your property. While the house might take up half the space, the other half can often feel underutilised. A pool changes that, transforming the backyard into a place of function, beauty, and joy. Even when it’s not in use, a pool acts as a stunning water feature, bringing a sense of calm and sophistication to your home.

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2. A trip to the beach is not for the faint-hearted

Let’s be honest, taking the kids to the beach can feel more like a military operation than a relaxing day out. You’re packing enough supplies for a small holiday, only to face parking chaos, sand in places it should never be, and overcrowded cabanas. Don’t forget the public toilets that seem to have seen better days. By the time you’ve set up, wrangled the kids, and found a spot away from someone’s Bluetooth speaker, the magic of the beach can feel like a distant memory. Pools, on the other hand, are private, convenient, and always ready for a quick dip. No forgotten sunscreen or endless unpacking. And best of all? No sand.

3. A pool is the holiday that keeps on giving

Luxury holidays are unforgettable but fleeting. They’re also expensive—and with flights, accommodation, and activities, the costs for a family can skyrocket. You dream of sipping a margarita by the pool, but that’s $30 a glass, and the club sandwich another $25. Then there’s the travel chaos: herding kids through airports, into taxis, and finally to the destination feels more like a survival mission than a vacation. A pool offers a long-term alternative. It’s your personal resort, ready whenever you are, without the stress or hidden costs. Over time, the investment in a pool pays for itself, giving you endless summers of fun, relaxation, and unforgettable moments.

4. Wellness starts at home

Wellness isn’t a luxury anymore—it’s a priority. Pools are becoming a natural part of this shift, working beautifully alongside saunas, home gyms, and outdoor retreats. Whether it’s a bracing cold plunge in winter or a calming float after a workout, a pool creates balance for both body and mind. And if you’re not quite ready to go full Wim Hof, there’s no shame in keeping the heating on.

5. A visual focal point

Pools aren’t just functional—they’re stunning. A well-placed pool doubles as a striking water feature, catching the eye of every guest, especially when it’s visible from indoor living spaces. By day, it shimmers inthe sunlight; by night, it glows softly under the stars. A pool is more than abackyard addition—it’s a design statement.

6. Pools for every block

Not every pool needs to be Olympic-sized—in fact, when they are, it’s usually the area near the alfresco that gets the most use. Plunge pools are becoming a popular choice, offering a compact and stylish solution for smaller blocks. Whether it’s a lap pool for fitness or a plunge pool for cooling off, there’s a design to suit every family and every home.

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7. Entertaining at home

There’s something special about hosting friends and family at home—especially when your pool is the star attraction. Whether it’s abarbecue, a birthday, or just a lazy weekend, a pool takes entertaining to the next level. Kids can splash, adults can relax, and everyone leaves with memories of a perfect day. Yes, there’s a little clean-up involved, but the smiles and laughter make it all worthwhile.

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Bringing the dream to life

At Hall & Hart, we see pools as more than just abackyard feature—they’re an extension of your home and your lifestyle. With our all-in-one design and construction service, we make it easy to create a home that includes the pool of your dreams. Whether it’s about wellness,entertainment, or simply making the most of your block, a pool is a choice that transforms your home into something truly special.

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Ready to start your custom home journey? Request your video assessment today and get the block information you need to begin with clarity and confidence!

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