An 8.2m × 3.66m retractable pool enclosure gives this Doncaster East backyard adjustable coverage without a tall structure dominating the garden. Powder-coated aluminium arches support clear 5mm polycarbonate panels, and the sections slide back along tracks to uncover the pool.
Project Background
The swimming pool sits within a landscaped residential backyard in Doncaster East, in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs. Lawn, planting and paved pool surrounds form an open outdoor setting. The design challenge was to introduce a cover that could help keep airborne leaves and dirt out when closed, while preserving the outlook and allowing the water to be uncovered for pool use.
Client Requirements
- Provide adjustable coverage over the existing pool.
- Keep the enclosure low enough to sit comfortably within the garden setting.
- Retain clear views of the water through transparent panels.
- Allow the roof sections to retract without removing individual panels.
- Use a track layout that works with the paved pool surrounds.
Materials and Dimensions
| Location | Doncaster East, Victoria, Melbourne |
|---|---|
| Enclosure size | 8.2m × 3.66m overall |
| Approximate footprint | 30.0m², calculated from the overall dimensions |
| Maximum height | 0.8m — a low-profile cover rather than a walk-in pool room |
| Frame | Powder-coated aluminium arched sections |
| Panel material | 5mm clear UV-protected polycarbonate |
| Opening system | Telescopic sections on dedicated sliding tracks |
Our Solution
A series of curved aluminium sections spans the pool. Clear polycarbonate follows the arched profile, providing overhead coverage without an opaque roof blocking the view of the water. At a maximum height of 0.8m, the structure remains visually low against the surrounding lawn and planting.
The sections nest together as they slide along tracks on either side of the pool. This gives the owner a practical way to change the covered area: extend the sections for coverage or retract them towards one end to open the pool. The layout combines the cover, tracks and stacking space as one system.
For available configurations and site-measure information, explore our retractable pool enclosures in Melbourne.
Completed Result
The finished enclosure gives the backyard two distinct arrangements. Extended sections cover the water and help limit the entry of leaves and dirt; retracted sections leave a substantial part of the pool open. The clear panels and compact height retain the visual connection between the water, paving and garden.
The photographs document the completed enclosure in different positions. No before-installation or construction-stage photographs have been supplied for this case.
Project Timing, Budget and Local Approvals
- Installation timeframe
- The installation duration for this project has not been supplied. Timing for a new enclosure is confirmed after measurement, design and any required approvals.
- Budget range
- A project price has not been supplied. Prices vary with dimensions, panel specification, track layout and site conditions. Book a free site measure for a tailored quote.
- Doncaster East permit information
- Project-specific permit records have not been supplied. Before arranging a similar enclosure, confirm building and planning requirements, and the relationship to the pool safety barrier, with a registered building surveyor and Manningham Council. Refer to Victoria’s pool and spa installation guidance. This case does not certify the enclosure as a pool safety barrier.
- Client review
- No verified client quotation has been supplied for publication.
Related Melbourne Projects
For another outdoor project in the same suburb, see our Doncaster East 7m × 4m alfresco pergola. Browse the Melbourne project gallery to compare pool enclosures, pergolas and sunrooms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is this Doncaster East pool enclosure?
The enclosure measures 8.2m × 3.66m overall, with a maximum height of 0.8m. These are enclosure dimensions; a new installation needs a site measure to confirm pool edges, track positions and space for the retracted sections.
How do the retractable sections work?
The arched sections slide along dedicated tracks and nest together at one end. This allows the covered area to be adjusted, while the clear 5mm polycarbonate panels maintain views of the water when the enclosure is closed.
Does a pool enclosure replace a pool safety barrier or remove permit requirements?
Do not assume this enclosure replaces a compliant pool safety barrier. For a Doncaster East property, confirm the proposed enclosure, barrier clearances and any building or planning approvals with a registered building surveyor and Manningham Council. Project-specific permit records are not included in this case.