A Tree Change in the Macedon Ranges
The Block 2022 traded city life for a tree change, heading to Gisborne in the Macedon Ranges about an hour north of Melbourne. With each property sitting on 10 acres, contestants faced the enormous task of planning and landscaping more than 700 square metres of land. And with every house built completely off-grid to a seven-star energy rating, sustainability had to be front of mind in every design decision.
We were proud to work with Sarah-Jane and Tom on House 1, as well as Dylan and Jenny on House 4, helping both couples create outdoor spaces that matched the scale and setting of their builds.
House 1: Sarah-Jane and Tom
Creating a Resort-Style Outdoor Space
Sarah-Jane and Tom won landscaping week, taking home a Ford Ranger for their efforts in creating what the judges called the ultimate in resort-style living. The property went on to win the SPASA Award of Excellence in 2023 for Sustainable Project, recognition that the green credentials were more than just talk.
Our director Daniel Cutugno worked closely with the couple throughout the build. “When Tom and Sarah-Jane asked us to construct a setting worthy of the scale of their interior, the challenge was clear,” Daniel says. “We needed to match their expansive interiors and alfresco areas with a pool that let you fully appreciate the scale and serenity of the surrounding countryside.”
Sustainability at the Core
With all properties running off-grid, selecting the right equipment was critical. Every component needed to demonstrate energy and water efficiency without compromising on performance.
The specification included cartridge filters, a variable speed pump, and an automatic dosing system. A pool cover was essential to retain the heat generated by the heat pump, reducing energy consumption significantly.
These choices weren’t just about meeting the sustainability requirements of the build. They’re the same recommendations we make to any family looking to minimise running costs and environmental impact.
Getting the Position Right
The original plans had the pool located between the old and new buildings, which meant it wasn’t visually connected to the main living area. Daniel suggested a different approach.
“I recommended to Sarah-Jane and Tom that we adjust the orientation so the pool was centred directly in front of the main living and kitchen area,” he explains. “This created a focal point that connected the interior with the outdoor living space, maximising those stunning views across to the Macedon Ranges.”
It’s a principle that applies to any pool project, not just television builds. A poorly positioned pool that isn’t connected to the home can affect usability, property value, and the overall feel of the space.
“Property buyers will always pay more for a water view, so it’s important to keep this in mind when planning any outdoor area,” Daniel says. “We wanted the outdoor living space to make an impact, and we feel we achieved that.”
A Challenging Build
This was no straightforward installation. Limited site access, difficult weather conditions, and very tight time constraints made it one of our most challenging projects.
Heavy rain turned an already muddy worksite into a serious obstacle course. Conventional machinery simply couldn’t get onto the site safely. In the end, we brought in a 20-tonne excavator to navigate the difficult terrain and cut through the hard, rocky ground to deliver the pool shell.
The result? Not only the biggest pool ever installed on The Block, but according to host Scott Cam, “the best fibreglass pool” he’s ever seen.
Pool Specifications
- Pool: Aqua Technics Valentina
- Colour: Platinum
- Size: 8.4m x 4.4m
- Equipment: Hendon
- Pool Cover: Sunbather
- Lighting: Spa Electrics
- Coping: Natural stone
- Pool Surrounds: Exposed aggregate
- Fencing: Blue Croc
House 4: Dylan and Jenny
A Pool to Match the Landscape
When Dylan and Jenny took on House 4, they were working with something most contestants don’t get: a genuinely spectacular backdrop. Rolling hills, big open skies and views across the Macedon Ranges. The pool needed to earn its place in that landscape.
They chose the Istana from Horizon’s Villa Series, a 6.2m x 3.3m fibreglass pool finished in Hamptons Blue. The colour’s soft blue-teal works beautifully with the property’s country-meets-coastal aesthetic, and the Istana’s wide entry steps and generous swim area made it a natural fit for a family-focused build.
Pool Specifications
- Pool: Horizon Villa Series Istana
- Colour: Hamptons Blue
- Size: 6.2m x 3.3m
Thinking About Your Own Project?
Whether you’re working with a challenging site, sustainability requirements, or simply want a pool that connects beautifully with your home, we’d love to chat about your project.
Browse our portfolio to see more of our work, or get in touch to start the conversation.
