Underground pool refurbishment for Kurrajong Apartments in Erskineville.

The client’s main concern was to address the issues with the acoustics as well as underuse of the pool due to the oppressive feel, lack of natural light and rising damp in the area.

Supawood acoustic ceiling slats were used to provide the acoustic rating required for the space. The woodgrain finish adds warmth and texture. Ceiling slats recess seamlessly between the existing concrete bulkheads.

Large scale laser-cut light boxes introduce a window-like experience into the external environment and add a naturalistic quality and feel. They help to break down sound reflections from the parallel walls and create an engaging visual statement.

The light boxes are lined with a soft green acoustic fabric which adds to the overall acoustic rating. Timber plank tiles run vertically along the wall adding organic texture and creating cohesion between ceiling and wall surfaces. 

The lighting layout for the space was an integral part of the design due to the fact that most of the space has no natural light. The general light source a very warm (2700K) LED strip washes wall surfaces with a golden warm hue and creates a shadow-play along the Stonini spine wall that runs the entire length of the space. Wall-mounted marine-style bunker lights help to reinforce the aquatic feel. Spotlights illuminate the pool entry and downlighting is used in a very minimal way.

The pool itself is finished with a Luxypool Epoxy in a very pale blue with a colour-matched waterline tile to help keep budget costs down. Once filled with water it is very difficult to see where the waterline tile finishes and the epoxy starts.

A cosy and inviting experience has been created for the residents, with the introduction of various organic textures to the surfaces as well as soft light warm tones throughout.

The level of detail provided by the Structural team and their tradespeople was nothing short of impressive and the strata committee were very cohesive and a delight to work with , which meant that the whole process was a very successful collaboration.