Would you love an ever-so-stylish swimming pool in your backyard, but hesitate due to the water and energy requirements? Well you’re in luck! Award winning Australian landscape designer Phillip Johnson, of Phillip Johnson Sustainable Landscape Systems, makes it possible for you to take a refreshing dip, all whilst being at one with nature. Offering a non-chemical alternative to chlorine and saltwater pools, the billabong is a swimmable rock pool filled with rainwater harvested from water tanks, roof run offs, driveways and more!
Suited to any environment, indigenous aquatic plants act as a filter system, and locally sourced rocks and native plants create a natural habitat to support flora and fauna. More than just a beautiful addition to your outdoor space, pool conversions are also an option with the billabong. Working with what is already in place, standard swimming pools can be re-created into natural wonderlands that support Mother Nature.
Moreover, even in times of drought, the billabong won’t suffer when things get a little drier than usual. As the water level drops, the pool turns into an attractive waterhole or dry riverbed. But when the drought breaks – voilà! You’ll find yourself quickly back in the billabong having your toes tickled by tadpoles, with a background musical of trickling waterfalls, frogs croaking, cicadas chirping and birds tweeting filling your ears.
Sounds like heaven to us.
Photos: © Claire Takacs
