Pittwater Poolhouse
Completed 2025
Photos by Jeremy Weihrauch
Having recently relocated to the Northern Beaches of Sydney, this family of four was drawn to the area’s easy-going lifestyle and connection to nature. With water and bushland views as their backdrop, they envisioned a space that would extend their lifestyle outdoors.
The goal was to transform their backyard and ageing pool into a hub of relaxation and entertainment. The result was a poolside studio, featuring a home office by day, and DJ studio by night.
The studio’s layout is straightforward, yet highly flexible. An expansive timber deck flows seamlessly into a shaded outdoor terrace and barbecue area. A bold off-form concrete roof cantilevers dramatically to provide weather protection while framing the surrounding greenery. This space acts as a casual hangout zone during the day, perfect for summer lunches, quiet reading, or just enjoying the breeze rolling off the water. At night, the space features an outdoor fireplace, perfect for cozy gatherings.
Inside, the main living zone centres around a kitchen and dining area designed with adaptability in mind. Large sliding glass doors disappear into recessed wall pockets, allowing the interior to open entirely to the outdoors. Adjacent to this is the studio, where the client’s passion for music takes centre stage. Outfitted with professional-grade sound and lighting equipment, the space transforms after dark into the heart of the party - a private DJ studio and dance floor.
The pool itself, a nostalgic kidney-shaped remnant, was retained but completely rejuvenated. The original painted surface and dated coping were replaced with modern mosaic tiling, giving it a sleek, contemporary finish. A new heated spa, fully tiled to match the pool, was added at one end, perfect for soaking with a glass of wine as the sun dips behind the trees.
Above, a green roof planted with hardy, low-maintenance coastal species softens the concrete form, offering a lush, living contrast to the structure below. Viewed from the main residence above, the roof reads as a textured garden bed. Over time, trailing vines will spill down the bagged brick façade, allowing the studio to gently recede into the landscape, becoming part of the garden rather than an addition to it.
More than just a backyard upgrade, this project is a thoughtful reflection of lifestyle, creativity, and landscape. Inspired by a love of music and a strong connection to the water, the studio serves as both a practical extension of the home and a meaningful space to foster lasting memories with family and friends.
