Designing a swimming pool for a retreat property comes with unique challenges and opportunities. When multiple generations of a family will use the same space, functionality, safety, and enjoyment must align seamlessly. The Martinborough Retreat project in Martinborough provides an excellent case study in multi-generational pool design. By combining a family-friendly pool and thoughtful landscaping, this retreat became a place for relaxation, wellness, and togetherness.
In this article, we highlight the full process of the Martinborough pool — from initial planning to client feedback.
The owners of the Martinborough Retreat pool engaged Aspect Architecture to design a pool area for all ages—grandparents, parents, and children. It needed to be safe and accessible for older family members, while also offering space for fun, relaxation, and entertaining for everyone else.
To create the Martinborough Retreat pool, the owners of the Martinborough Retreat turned to NZ Pools for their expertise in building and delivering a high-quality pool installation. Working alongside Aspect Architecture, who designed the pool area to suit all ages—grandparents, parents, and children—the project needed to combine safety and accessibility for older family members with areas for fun, relaxation, and entertaining.
The Martinborough Retreat was designed for a family retreat where grandparents, parents, and children could gather. Unlike single-use residential pools, the design had to accommodate varied age groups with different needs:
This section highlights why designing for multiple generations matters—it ensures the pool serves as a unifying space where everyone feels comfortable and safe.
The goal of this project extended beyond creating a functional pool. The retreat design needed to embody relaxation, outdoor living, and a sense of connection with the natural surroundings of Martinborough. Achieving these goals meant combining aesthetic landscaping, safety features, and a layout that encouraged social use while still offering areas for quiet retreat.
Designing a pool in New Zealand means balancing safety, style, and function. Factors like access, depth, layout, and how the space will be used all need to be carefully planned to suit the people using it.
Safety is non-negotiable in family pool projects. For this retreat, features such as slip-resistant surfaces, compliant fencing, and shallow entry areas. Safety is particularly important when multiple generations are involved, as it ensures peace of mind for both adults and children. This pool has a safety toe hold around the entire pool so young bathers can always get a foot hold around the side of the pool.
Accessibility was a key theme. A step out seat on the side of the pool, and varying pool depths were chosen to accommodate users of all ages and abilities. This inclusivity ensured that every family member ,from young children to older adults could enjoy the pool safely and comfortably.
Creating your pool starts with understanding your needs, then planning the layout, choosing materials, and finalizing details to build a pool that fits your lifestyle and space perfectly.
The process began with detailed discussions by Aspect Architecture with the homeowners about their retreat vision. Early sketches and concept plans helped visualise how the pool would integrate with the wider property. Input from each generation of the family shaped the final design.
In New Zealand, council consent is essential for pool construction. By addressing regulatory requirements early, the project avoided unnecessary delays. Safety fencing, depth considerations, and building standards were all accounted for in the documentation.
The installation process included excavation, placement of the fibreglass shell, installation of state of the art automated pool equipment, heating and covers. Careful scheduling ensured the project moved smoothly, even with weather considerations. The installation phase also included plumbing and electrical connections for the pool and pool house.
The retreat was completed with landscaping that softened the pool’s edges and created an inviting outdoor environment. The team at Groundbreakers landscaping cleverly used native plants and natural materials, the final design connected the pool to its surroundings while offering privacy and a resort-like ambience.
| Feature | Benefit for Multi-Gen Families |
| Wide Entry Steps | Easy access for children and older adults |
| Toe hold around pool | Safe zone for younger swimmers |
| Compliant Fencing | Meets NZ safety regulations |
| Slip-Resistant Surfaces | Reduces risk of accidents |
| Landscaping Integration | Creates retreat-style ambience |
The Martinborough Retreat demonstrates how careful design can create a pool that functions as a gathering space for multiple generations. For homeowners planning their own projects, exploring successful examples can provide inspiration. You can view more NZ Pools project spotlights or learn about the team’s approach on the About page. For additional resources and design ideas, visit the NZ Pools homepage.
The Martinborough Retreat shows how thoughtful design by a landscape designer can create a functional and beautiful multi-gen pool environment. By incorporating accessibility, safety, and a shaded pool house, the retreat became a central feature of family life. This project spotlight offers inspiration for multi-generational homeowners across New Zealand. For further guidance on pool design or to explore more project spotlights, contact NZ Pools.
The Martinborough Retreat has become a central hub of family life, thanks to a design that balances accessibility, safety, and relaxation with expert delivery by NZ Pools. Their proven approach to pool construction ensures homeowners not only achieve their design goals but also enjoy lasting quality and peace of mind. If you’re considering building your own retreat-style or family pool in New Zealand, NZ Pools is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact their team today to start planning.
1. What makes a pool design suitable for multi-generational families?
A multi-gen pool design includes shallow zones, wide steps,, and safety features that make the pool comfortable for every age group.
2. How do safety regulations affect pool projects in NZ?
All pools must meet council consent requirements, including fencing and material standards. Addressing these early avoids delays and ensures safe use.
4. How does landscaping influence retreat pool design?
Landscaping enhances privacy, improves aesthetics, and links the pool to its natural surroundings. It also creates a retreat-like feel.
5. What feedback did the Martinborough homeowners share?
They valued the inclusivity, safety, noting the pool became a centrepiece for family connection and relaxation.
