Award-Winning Pools Redefining Outdoor Living in Australia

Outdoor living continues to play a defining role in the way Australians design and enjoy their homes, and the 2025 SPASA Awards of Excellence have once again showcased just how creative and refined backyard spaces have become. Celebrating the very best in pool and spa design across Australia and New Zealand, the annual awards highlight projects that transform everyday outdoor areas into private lifestyle sanctuaries.

According to SPASA CEO Kristin Brookfield, Australian pool design continues to evolve in ways that enhance both wellbeing and the experience of home. From striking architectural statements to tranquil resort-style retreats, the award-winning projects demonstrate how thoughtful planning and craftsmanship can elevate a simple backyard into a place designed for relaxation, connection and enjoyment.

One of the standout projects of the year came from Zen Building Pools in Mittagong, NSW, which secured three major awards including Innovative Project, Concrete Pool of the Year and Concrete Pool and Spa Combination. Set against a tranquil forested backdrop, the multi-tiered pool was praised by judges for its seamless integration with the surrounding landscape. With cascading levels and refined detailing, the design creates a private oasis that blends elegance with nature.

Another impressive multi-award winner was Laguna, recognised for its Clifton Hill project in Victoria. The design features a curved freestanding pool accompanied by a spa and cold plunge, creating a versatile wellness space. An infinity edge and layered landscaping enhance the sense of flow throughout the outdoor area, allowing the space to transition effortlessly from energising morning swims to peaceful evening relaxation.

Queensland also featured among the winners, with Ezy Living Pools taking out the Concrete Lap Pool category for its Burleigh Heads project. Designed as a luxurious personal retreat, the pool incorporates a striking acrylic viewing window, a dedicated spa and surrounding daybeds that create a resort-like atmosphere within a private home. The result is a space that encourages both relaxation and everyday enjoyment.

In Melbourne, Aloha Pools was recognised for its remarkable commercial project in South Melbourne, winning both Commercial Project of the Year and Hotel/Resort Pool over $1 million. Inspired by five-star resort design, the lagoon-style pool features a cascading waterfall and innovative sustainability features. The design cleverly repurposes waste heat from the building’s cooling towers to warm the water, while advanced engineering ensures minimal vibration impact for surrounding apartments.

Further north in Byron Bay, Mullum Pools received recognition for its Concrete Commercial Pool project. Inspired by traditional Moroccan riads, the pool blends elegant curves with textured surrounds to create a calm yet character-filled environment. Magnesium water adds to the wellness experience, while a viewing window allows a unique connection between swimmers and the surrounding space.

Another notable winner was Jade Pools, awarded for its North Kellyville design in the Concrete Pool up to $240,000 category. Nestled within bushland, the project features a beautifully integrated pool and spa that spill gently into one another. Natural finishes echo the surrounding landscape, creating a retreat that feels both refined and deeply connected to its environment.

What these award-winning pools ultimately reveal is how outdoor spaces have become an extension of the home itself. Today’s designs are not simply about swimming — they are about creating environments that encourage relaxation, entertaining, wellbeing and connection with nature.

Across Australia, beautifully designed pools are helping redefine the modern backyard, turning everyday homes into places that feel more like a private resort. And as these projects show, when thoughtful design meets craftsmanship, the result can truly transform the way we live at home.