DESKTOP
MOBILE
Episode Overview
In this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Damian Francis from Frontier Pools to unpack the full journey from first idea to first swim. With a background in landscaping and concrete, he explains why the best pools begin with a solid design, clear goals, and a site plan that considers access, fencing, and the entire backyard — not just the water.
Damian walks through the early steps: engaging a landscape architect, shaping a concept that reflects how you actually want to live, and navigating consent with pool fencing in mind. He demystifies common decisions — pool size, shape, filtration, heating, and finishes — and shares when features like infinity edges or integrated spas make sense.
We dig into the build realities many homeowners miss: tight Auckland sites, rock excavation, machinery access, and sequencing the dig so landscaping benefits from the same window of work. Damian outlines typical timelines from construction to handover and explains why planning for a concealed cover early can save money and improve the look while reducing evaporation and running costs.
Finally, Damian breaks down water care options (salt-to-chlorine, mineral systems, automation), the basics of maintenance and valet services, and the simple habits that keep water clear with minimal effort. Throughout, Damian returns to the real payoff — time together. A well-planned pool becomes a daily ritual for kids, teens, and parents alike, turning the backyard into a place to connect, unplug, and make memories for decades.
Enjoyed this episode?
There’s plenty more where that came from. The Trends Property Insight Series is a video podcast that dives into the real stories, expert advice, and smart solutions behind New Zealand’s renovation, building, and home buying journeys. Hosted by Andrew Johnson, each episode features industry leaders, design professionals, and product innovators sharing practical insights to help you make confident decisions for your home.
To explore the full series of interviews, design stories, and renovation tips, head over to our Podcast Page and watch or listen to every episode on demand.
You can also listen to the Trends Property Insight Series ‘on the go’ wherever you find the world’s best podcasts.
You can also listen to the Trends Property Insight Series ‘on the go’ wherever you find the world’s best podcasts.
[clean_tags]
Episode Overview
In this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Damian Francis from Frontier Pools to unpack the full journey from first idea to first swim. With a background in landscaping and concrete, he explains why the best pools begin with a solid design, clear goals, and a site plan that considers access, fencing, and the entire backyard — not just the water.
Damian walks through the early steps: engaging a landscape architect, shaping a concept that reflects how you actually want to live, and navigating consent with pool fencing in mind. He demystifies common decisions — pool size, shape, filtration, heating, and finishes — and shares when features like infinity edges or integrated spas make sense.
We dig into the build realities many homeowners miss: tight Auckland sites, rock excavation, machinery access, and sequencing the dig so landscaping benefits from the same window of work. Damian outlines typical timelines from construction to handover and explains why planning for a concealed cover early can save money and improve the look while reducing evaporation and running costs.
Finally, Damian breaks down water care options (salt-to-chlorine, mineral systems, automation), the basics of maintenance and valet services, and the simple habits that keep water clear with minimal effort. Throughout, Damian returns to the real payoff — time together. A well-planned pool becomes a daily ritual for kids, teens, and parents alike, turning the backyard into a place to connect, unplug, and make memories for decades.
Enjoyed this episode?
There’s plenty more where that came from. The Trends Property Insight Series is a video podcast that dives into the real stories, expert advice, and smart solutions behind New Zealand’s renovation, building, and home buying journeys. Hosted by Andrew Johnson, each episode features industry leaders, design professionals, and product innovators sharing practical insights to help you make confident decisions for your home.
To explore the full series of interviews, design stories, and renovation tips, head over to our Podcast Page and watch or listen to every episode on demand.
You can also listen to the Trends Property Insight Series ‘on the go’ wherever you find the world’s best podcasts.
You can also listen to the Trends Property Insight Series ‘on the go’ wherever you find the world’s best podcasts.
[clean_tags]