Dive into good design

15 Jan 2026

If you’re looking for some inspiration to take your pool area to the next level, this one might just do the trick! The fusion of past concepts and modern functionality often results in exceptional creations, and we can see that here in this project involving careful alterations and additions to a cherished mid-century home, originally designed by architect Keith Cottier of Allen Jack+Cottier in 1965.

Distinctive for its Sydney School style, this home’s outdoor space is a high point of its transformation, integrating a newly decorated pool while preserving the charming character. Embracing the essence of its original architecture, designer Belinda Edmunds has restored and enhanced this home, giving it new life while paying homage to its historical significance.

Exterior painted in Resene Quarter Thorndon Cream, with timber roof trim in Resene Dynamite, external balcony columns in Resene Bokara Grey and trims in Resene Triple Masala.

“The clients loved the mid-century style and robust finishes of the house,” Belinda says. “The objective was to seamlessly connect the residence with a newly designed pool area and create entertainment areas that effortlessly blend with the outdoor ambiance.”

The project’s design approach was heavily influenced by iconic black and white photographs taken by photographer David Moore in 1966. These images, featured in the book Living & Partly Living: Housing in Australia, showcased the home amidst towering gum trees, its crisp white composition accentuated by contrasting roof trim. These visual cues informed the new design, as well as the chosen Resene colour palette.

The colour palette was carefully curated to honour the past while embracing the present. Inspired by the timeless photographs, the exterior was repainted in Resene Quarter Thorndon Cream, with the roof’s distinctive edging highlighted in Resene Dynamite, a deep blue-tinged red. This bold choice connects the various architectural elements, creating a vibrant visual cohesion.

A mural painted in mid-century bold hues in Resene Dynamite, Resene Retro, Resene Half Resolution Blue, Resene Dauntless, Resene Spotlight, Resene Adrenalin and Resene Eighth Masala brightens this pool and pays tribute to the home's origins.

A defining feature of the outdoor design is the geometric roof, which Belinda describes as “a simple geometric element that connects the new work both visually and physically.” This roof elegantly ties together different spaces. It functions as a covered walkway, linking the kitchen to the rumpus and cabana, wrapping around the pool edge.

The new low-level roof reorients the home toward the pool and eastern courtyard, creating a sense of unity and harmony throughout the space. Showing a commitment to honouring architectural heritage and celebration of history, this transformed residence is not only a home but a timeless work of art.

Top tip: Decks and walking areas near pools can quickly become slippery when wet. Create a comfortable non-slip finish with Resene Non-Skid Deck & Path to help keep your friends and family safe.

Project Hungerford + Edmunds
Images Murray Fredericks

Before:

A glimpse of the dull and colour lacking outdoor space before the transformation of this home.

Published: 15 Jan 2026