Diving into the deep end: The top end of home pools

Boasting twin salt-water pools, a 15-person hot tub, five waterfalls and a waterslide, the backyard pool of Tony and Mariana Kitchukov in the US state of Arizona is considered one of the world’s most expensive private pools. It took five months and more than $1 million to create the Mirage-style oasis which can easily handle 200 guests.

Australia’s backyard pools have a little catching up to do, but at the top end of the market it’s not unusual for homeowners to splash out.

Gary Kilworth, director of luxury pool specialist Out of the Blue, says his company builds pools for its Victorian clientele costing up to $600,0000.

“The bigger the pool, the more expensive it will be, but it often comes down to the interior finishes,” says Kilworth, pointing out that the only limit on choice for those with deep pockets is the imagination.

“People are looking for something unique in the interior, something that sparkles.”

Dollars are also swallowed by self-cleaning systems, pool heating and lighting, swim streams and remote operation to enable pool owners to manage their pool and spa via the internet.

Take a dip into our selection of fabulous Aussie pools.

8 Ryan Avenue, Mosman 
$9.1-$10 million
4 bed 3 bath 2 car

With the introduction of aquarium-grade acrylic panels, pools have become even better eye candy. This heated pool on Sydney’s north shore provides a startling contrast to its leafy green surrounds. “I think it’s spectacular,” says agent Tim Foote. “Not only is it a great pool to swim in, but it also presents as a piece of art.” The three-storey property enjoys wonderful north-easterly views over another good-looking body of water, Balmoral Beach, and features airy, open-plan living spaces.

Features: Marble island kitchen with gas cooktop and wine fridge; ducted airconditioning; integrated surround sound system; wine cellar; full-width front verandah; bespoke cabinetry

For sale by expressions of interest.
Belle Property Mosman 02 9969 9833, 0416 090 191
See more at Domain

12 Maher Terrace Sunshine Beach QLD 
$5-$5.5 million
6 bed 5 bath 4 car

A solar-heated pool with a waterfall cascading from a feature rock wall is the star attraction in the back garden of this Tim Ditchfield-designed home. Positioned a 250 metre-walk from the beach, the home lays claim to panoramic ocean views from the key living areas and large deck on the first floor. There is New Guinea teak flooring and zoned airconditioning throughout, a marble kitchen with Gaggenau and Miele appliances and a Sonos sound system.

For sale by tender closting December 2016
Century 21 Connolly Hay Group 07 5447 2451, 0422 719 041
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46 Beach Road, Menton Victoria
$6-$8 million
5 bed 4 bath 3 car

The fully tiled, auto-clean pool and spa is one highlight among many at this beachfront residence, custom-built by Lowe Constructions with gardens by Wallbrink Landscape Architecture. There’s a north-south tennis court, a home theatre, an Ilve kitchen and a customised home office. “It’s probably got the best views of Port Phillip Bay of any house south of Brighton,” says agent Scott Hamilton. “You can actually see the sand as well as the water and it’s on two titles which is a massive advantage.”

For sale by negotiation
Buxton Real Estate Mentone 03 9598 8222, 0414 705 486
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21 Parsley Road, Vaucluse NSW 
$12 million
5 bed 7 bath 2 car

Drawing its inspiration from the Mediterranean, the substantial pool sits high on the southern border of this property to capture the sunshine. Flanked by a pergola and boundary walls draped in established greenery, the pool is heated and surrounded in travertine paving. Designed by architect Michael Suttor, the elegant house features marble floors with underfloor heating, a wrought iron staircase, formal and casual living spaces, a marble and Gaggenau kitchen and views of Sydney Harbour from the upper level master retreat.

For sale by expressions of interest
Sydney’s Sotheby’s International Realty 02 8355 6783, 0417 371 522
See more at Domain