We sat down with Alex and Corban, design gurus, former owners of AC Homestore and winners of the Block to find out more on their recent outdoor project where their goal was to create maximum impact on a minimum budget. The aim was to transform this tired pool space, into a family-friendly tropical oasis that can be enjoyed for many Summer evenings to come. 

• What was the ultimate end-goal of this pool project?

The pool area was really run down, dark and cold feeling. We wanted to lighten up the pool area to feel a bit more tropical with a modern touch.

BEFORE 

BEFORE

• How did the Shell White tiles help you achieve this?

The lighter tile colour and texture has really lightened the area up and contrasts beautifully now with the blue lines of the pool.

At the same time we updated the fencing, and this paired with the tiles has completely transformed the pool area to becoming modern. We also feel that it has now created a greater sense of space with a lighter colour tile.

AFTER. Tiles used: Shell White Grip and Shell White Bullnose. Furniture from Soren Liv

AFTER. Tiles used: Shell White Grip and Shell White Bullnose. Furniture from Soren Liv

• Were there any challenges in this project along the way

This simple layover of tiles was relatively straight forward and we didn’t face too many challenges, except maybe knowing where to stop? The tiling was so beautiful that it made us look that bit further at things like new planting, stone gardens, new lights in the pool to make the project complete. These weren’t part of the original plan.

AFTER. Tiles used: Shell White Grip and Shell White Bullnose. Furniture from Soren Liv

• Were there many difficulties in retiling a pool surround?

It was relatively easy. The only thing that took more time than expected was trying to level the bull nose tiles around the pool edge, and making the cuts perfectly

Working with a good tiler who loves his trade made a massive difference.

AFTER. Tiles used: Shell White Grip and Shell White Bullnose.

• Any tips for anyone else looking to undertake a project of this nature?

Find yourself a good quality tiler who understands the overall project and finishing required.

And plan to update the whole area in one swoop. It made such a difference to the final results that we also updated pool fencing and landscaping at the same time. Creating a brand new space all together. 

AFTER. Tiles used: Shell White Grip and Shell White Bullnose. Furniture from Soren Liv

We have recently just launched a brand new Outdoor Range across all Tile Space Showrooms and Retail Partners. We have loved being a part of this project, with Alex and Corban and would love to help you transform your outdoors!