night reflections

Wedged in a narrow strip of land between the house and rear boundary, Graham Cleary and Kim Johnstone's pool provides a striking backdrop to the living area of their expansive Auckland home. With the help of architect Richard Priest and landscape designer Trudi Crerar, of Natural Habitats, a sloping back yard was transformed to form the pool and courtyards on either side of the dining area that reaches out to the pool's edge. The north-west axis of the pool ensures it gets plenty of sun during the day, while at night the emerald water echoes the strong blue and turquoise colours of the adjoining living areas. The vibrant palette of colours used inside is also reflected in the ceramic tiles that edge the waterline. It was important to Graham and Kim that the pool melded well with the house, which Graham describes as "very much a New Zealand style of house - it reflects our place in the Pacific". Not only have Richard Priest and Trudy Crerar created "a beautiful pool to play and frolic in as a family", at 25 metres long it provides a good work-out for the serious swimmer. Just 2.7 metres wide at either end, the pool flares in the middle to 4.5 metres. At the widest point a broad step forms a safe area for younger swimmers. A mix of tropical plants and succulents form the backdrop to the pool, a standard concrete shell which sits on about 30 concrete piles.

Pool built by Morgan Pools (09-525 1242) and Natural Habitats (09-529 0190). Landscaping by Graham Cleary of Natural Habitats (as above). Tuscan sandstone tiles from The Slate and Stone Centre (09-579 3326). Ceramic tiles from Morris and James (09-422 7116). Richard Priest Architects (09-309 3096).