Often it is the largest and the smallest spaces that are the most challenging to design – the opposite ends of the spectrum. It is sometimes difficult to connect and link spaces across really large sites, but in compact back yards every detail is exposed for all to see. Using a limited materials palette and maximising every inch of space through cleverly integrated design techniques has led to fantastic results in this back yard in Williamstown.

Sticking to timber, bluestone, render and glass means every element in the design in linked, reading as a unified whole as opposed to separate spaces. Ensuring that the exposed length of the pool wall itself met the requirements of a pool barrier, a huge amount of space was saved that otherwise would have been wasted on pool fencing.

The design features lasercut screens overhead, a sculptural lightbox to create a focal point on the boundary and of course, the stunning acrylic window – connecting you to the water even when you’re on the dry side!