Cold plunges and hot spas: how the wellness trend is changing the Australian backyard

There was a time when the major choice to be made about installing the backyard pool was whether it was to be in-ground or above-ground.

However, the backyard pool has come a long way.

Recent industry awards showing that wellness features in pool design are what Australians are demanding for their homes.

"Wellness is no longer an afterthought in residential design. We're seeing more and more clients ask us to create spaces within their properties for them to enjoy year-round - not just for recreation, but for wellness, fitness and health," says Laguna Pools Director Glenn Maxton.

"Cold plunges, hot spas and lap pools are now being designed alongside saunas, yoga rooms and home gyms, reflecting a growing demand for at-home wellness experiences that go far beyond aesthetics."

At the 2025 SPASA Awards of Excellence, Melbourne's Laguna Pools Clifton Hill project took out three national and five state awards, including Australia's Best Pool Landscape Design and Spa of the Year.

It's the first Australian pool and spa designed with an integrated cold plunge.

"The integrated cold plunge within the pool is an Australia-first, and quite possibly a world-first, allowing hot and cold water to sit side-by-side as one," says Mr Maxton.

"It's not an easy feat, but the design makes it look effortless. That's what makes this project so unique."

The two curved triangular forms consist of a main pool with an integrated plunge and a detached spa.

The main is framed by a continuous infinity edge that spills into a sunken wet-edge pit - removing the need for fencing and maintaining clear views from the home.

"What makes Clifton Hill really stand out is the cold plunge," says Mr Maxton.

"It's built directly into the main pool. You look across the water and you'd never know there's a dividing edge there. It's seamless.

"The whole idea was to bring wellness into the everyday - from a quick morning plunge to relaxing in the spa at night, it's a space the family can use year-round," he said.

It points to an evolving concept of what 'luxury' means for Aussie homes. Read: the new wealth is health.

Health is wealth

The Global Wellness Institute estimates the wellness real estate market was worth US$398 billion in 2022 and is expected to more than double to US$887.5 billion by 2027.

This explosive growth reflects changing expectations among affluent buyers who are increasingly seeking homes that are restorative, sustainable, and personal sanctuaries.

Ray White's Luxury Report 2025 revealed that homes with dedicated wellness features are commanding significant premiums: 10 to 25 per cent more than comparable properties without them.

Prestige homes are increasingly being designed with in-home wellness zones.

But these aren't tucked away in the garage - they're integrated into the architectural flow of the home.

National winner Zen Building Pools Landscapes 'Tranquilla' project, which took out Concrete Pool of the Year, follows this approach with a design that integrates the natural environment.

"Set against a tranquil, forested backdrop, this breathtaking tiered pool design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape to create a private oasis of serenity and sophistication," said the SPASA judges.

The tiered design - quite popular in Bali as it blends beautifully into the landscape - becomes an extension of its natural surrounds, providing a tranquil escape that lends itself perfectly to wellness and mindfulness, while doubling as a great space for entertaining.

Another standout national winner was for Freeform Pool of the Year - The Legacy Pool by Alfresco Pools, which uses tropical plants, waterfalls and mimics natural rock formations to create a spectacular natural playground.

"A 20-meter hydroslide will have you soaring into the water, cascading waterfalls create the perfect backdrop, daring jumping rocks for thrill seekers, this pool is the ultimate escape," said the judges.

"Unwind in the relaxing spa pool, complete with a stunning weir feature, and soak in the breathtaking aesthetics that surround you. Whether you're seeking excitement or relaxation, this pool has it all."

Wellness is now an essential element buyers are seeking in Australia's property market.