Take the PLUNGE

IN JUST A FEW WEEKS A PETITE POOL CAN TURN A HO-HUM BACKYARD INTO A HOLIDAY OASIS - SO THERE'S NO NEED TO PACK YOUR BAGS!

- SUE WHEELER

Plunge pools may not be the new kid on the block, but they're fast becoming the most popular. And for good reason, too. "Not only are we building bigger houses on smaller blocks, but city dwellers who lack outdoor space still want to be able to enjoy the luxury of a private pool," says Cameron Levick, CEO of Plungie. The affordability of prefabricated plunge pools (particularly in light of increased building costs) is a big drawcard, as is a go-to-whoa project time frame of just a few weeks.

Up to seven metres in length and about 1.7 metres deep, plunge pools are more about relaxation, cooling off in the heat and socialising than swimming laps. According to interior and landscape designer Jen Burgess, design director of Texture Studio, they are "increasingly seen as an exciting addition to outdoor entertaining and a fun way to encourage people [to get] outside, while adding value to your home".

Thinking of dipping your toes in the water? Here's what to consider.

SOUNDS LIKE A PLAN

Before the fun stuff starts, let's cover off the logistics. The type of building approval you need from either a private certifier or local council (or equivalent) differs depending on where you live and the zoning of your property, as do safety regulations, such as fencing requirements. "In terms of your property, you need to check any covenants, easements and exclusion zones, including drainage and sewer lines," advises Adrian Garofali of Sydney Poolscapes. "We discuss access, soil type and look at proximity to large trees and power lines that might need extra consideration [when] craning in the pool."