Te Arai Lodge

Nestled amongst the rolling hills of Te Arai, this striking 20-metre concrete lap pool was created as the centerpiece of Te Arai Lodge - a spectacular boutique retreat designed to welcome family and friends while also hosting luxury accommodation, yoga retreats, cooking experiences and romantic escapes. Featured extensively on the popular TV show Grand Designs New Zealand in 2018, the property was one of the country's most ambitious and significant residential builds of its time. The swimming pool played a prominent role throughout the episode, showcasing the craftsmanship and attention to detail required to construct a pool of this scale and quality. Measuring 20 metres long by 4 metres wide with a constant depth of 1.5 metres, the pool was designed to provide the perfect balance between fitness swimming, relaxation and resort-style entertaining. The clean architectural lines mirror the surrounding home while framing uninterrupted views across the surrounding countryside. The pool dimensions and structural details (including extensive pool foundation) were carefully engineered to suit the site conditions for long-term durability. Every finish was selected to complement the natural materials used throughout the entire residence. the Antique Shahabad coping creates a timeless edge to the pool, while rich Purple Heart hardwood decking provides warmth and contrast against the contemporary architecture.  Premium Ezarri glass mosaic tiles complete the waterline, and the interior is finished in Hydrazzo polished pool plaster, the result is producing beautifully clear, inviting water for the lodge guests. To preserve the pool's clean aesthetic while improving energy efficiency and safety, a fully automated Covrex slatted pool cover was incorporated into the design, allowing the pool to remain protected when not in use while retaining heat. The result is a pool that is far more than a place to swim. It is an integral part of one of New Zealand's most iconic homes - designed to bring together architecture, craftsmanship and landscape while creating an unforgettable destination for guests from all around the world. Photo Credit to Matt Queree and Curt Simmons