Set against a striking elevation change in Coledale, this Saltleaf project transformed a small courtyard space into a multi-use garden with a courtyard plunge pool. Strong architectural lines anchor the space, while bold planting introduces softness, scale, and soul. The result is a landscape that feels both confident and considered. Every detail is designed to make the most of a compact footprint. Tight access made planning key to the project’s success.
Project snapshot
- Location: Coledale, northern Illawarra
- Scope: Concrete plunge pool, courtyard landscape, BBQ bench, planting
- Pool: Fully tiled interior in Trace green 50 x 50 tiles, bluestone coping
- Site: Compact courtyard, significant elevation change, tight access for machinery
- Built by: Saltleaf’s full-time team, no subcontractors
This garden isn’t shy, it makes an impression from the first step. Seen from inside the house looking out over the plunge pool, it draws you out and rewards you with a space to unwind. Layered planting guides the journey to the rear garden. Ground covers, sculptural cactus and tonal blues work together to create a private space that invites both movement and rest.
Building a concrete pool in a tight Coledale courtyard
With an existing backdrop of slender weaver bamboo, Bambusa textilis ‘Gracilis’, we worked with our clients to develop a master plan to incorporate a courtyard plunge pool into the yard while still allowing space to entertain. Tight access made planning key to the project’s success. Reclaimed bluestone steppers and crazy paving form the base, with matching bluestone coping wrapping the concrete pool. The Trace green 50 x 50 tiles give a fully tiled interior that reflects a soft blue, echoing the colours of the planting around it. Recycled railway sleepers lead up to the rear of the yard, alongside a burnished concrete BBQ bench with integrated seating.
“Creating backyards to be enjoyed with friends, building pools to be swum in by families and designing gardens that grow and develop. The works we create provides real job satisfaction”
Matt
Soft Power: The Planting Palette Sculptural exotics like Euphorbia ‘Cowboy’ and Agave geminiflora make bold statements, paired with Kalanchoe ‘Silver Spoons’ throwing blue fireworks throughout the space. Naturally weathering timber provides a warm contrast against the spilling Casuarina ‘Cousin It’. Blending soft and hard elements was front of mind when the design came together. Viola hederacea weaves between the steppers, grounding the greenery in a courtyard with no room for lawn.
The space is made for strolling back from the beach, taking a plunge to refresh, and pausing for a quiet, private moment. What we love most about this garden is its balance. It’s structured but not stiff. Bold but not brash. It encourages you to sit, take in the light, notice the detail, and appreciate the quiet confidence in how everything holds together.
In a region known for its natural beauty, tucked between the escarpment and the ocean, this garden stands out by leaning into contrast. Manmade meets natural. Formal meets free. And in that tension, something beautiful grows.
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Get The Look
The materials, finishes and planting that bring this courtyard together.
