A teen retreat and a dream home complete

When you find your dream home, sometimes it’s just one detail away from perfect.

That’s what Lisa’s family discovered during their recent house hunt. While the property they fell in love with ticked nearly every box, there was one crucial element missing; space for their teenage son to call his own.

But space doesn’t need to be a compromise. Not when a Melwood garden room solves the problem.

“We chose Greenspan because of the quality of the product, the options available to suit our preferences and needs, the price point and the high quality of the customer service.”

A missing piece

Everyone who’s ever bought a house knows the mythical “perfect home” doesn’t exist. Sure, you might find something close – the right neighbourhood, a beautiful kitchen, that outdoor entertaining area you’ve always wanted.

But there’s usually one compromise. One small detail that keeps it from being truly ideal. For many families, especially those with teenagers, that missing element is often just a matter of space.

This was exactly the situation facing Lisa and her family when they found their almost-perfect home in Sydney’s Upper North Shore. The location was ideal, the layout worked beautifully for most of the family, and the pool was a dream. There was just one thing missing. Space for their teenage son to study, relax, and grow into independence.

“We found a house that was ideal for the majority of our needs; however, our teenage son needed more space,” Lisa confirms.

A smart solution

Rather than continuing their search – after all, everything else was exactly what they were looking for – Lisa started to explore the option of using the generous garden to create more space for their teenager.

While one option would have been to extend into the backyard, Lisa had a better idea. A dead space next to the pool was crying out for a cabana. And this would make a fabulous teenage retreat, turning what was a near-perfect home into one that ticked every single box.

“The garden building would ensure that the house met all of our needs, while also using some fairly wasted space in the garden,” says Lisa.

Their search could end with no compromises, and without having to move into another price bracket for that one additional space they needed.

It was the perfect solution – one that would allow them to secure the property they loved and transform it into a functional space for the whole family.

A perfect fit

And so, research began.

Lisa wanted to be sure that their teenage son would have his much-needed space quickly after moving in, allowing him to settle and the whole family find their rhythm in their new home.

Quality was a top priority, as was the ability to personalise their chosen design. And with moving house already a stressful experience, it was essential that the process from start to finish was smooth and easy – not one that added to their stress!

When their search led to us, they knew they had found the right fit. Lisa says our expertise and personalised approach made the decision easy. “We chose Greenspan because of the quality of the product, the options available to suit our preferences and needs, the price point, and the high quality of the customer service,” she confirms.

A simple design journey

From the very first interaction, Lisa and her family felt confident they were in good hands. The process of bringing their vision to life was remarkably straightforward.

Using our advanced design software, the family’s Design Solutioneer helped them to visualise exactly how the Melwood would look in their garden before they had even moved in! Selecting the popular Melwood Mod as their core design, applying personalisation choices with the 3D configurator brought their design to life on screen.

“The software program made it easy to envision what the final product would look like,” confirms Lisa.

And they found themselves guided every step of the way by their Design Solutioneer – something they greatly appreciated when venturing into unfamiliar territory while simultaneously navigating one of life’s most stressful events!

“He was exceptional in the way he communicated our options to us,” Lisa tells us. ”He was responsive to all of our needs and questions, and the home consult was superb.”

A seamless fit

A Melwood Mod 18 was their design of choice. Bright, spacious and with sleek modern lines, it was the perfect partner to the existing home and adjacent pool. The board and batten cladding was upgraded to pre-primed weatherboard on the two prominently visible sides. And to ensure coordination with the house, Colorbond roofing in “Woodland Grey” was selected.

The pool stretches out in front of the cabana, framed by the centrally placed double doors for the ultimate ‘room with a view’. Double-hung windows on each side and highlights across the top fill the interior with natural light and maximise the lovely outlook.

A space that evolves

Ordered upon settlement, and delivered and installed just weeks later, today the Mod sits proudly at the head of the pool and directly adjacent to the family home. Painted the same warm beige as the house, its appearance and proximity create a seamless connection between the two structures.

Yet, the space is the independent living their teenager yearned for. “The space he needs to study, relax and entertain…the independence he needs while still being at home,” Lisa explains.

Generously sized at 5.4m x 3.2m, the interior has been transformed into a versatile multi-use room. Almost self-contained, the Mod houses a lounge, bed, wardrobe and desk – the perfect teenage bedroom with the best view in the house! It’s a place to study, play music, hang out with friends and have the privacy and independence every young adult needs, all while maintaining close family connections.

A future-proof investment

With the current housing market making it increasingly difficult for young people to move out of the family home as soon as they used to, it is likely this Melwood Mod will continue its journey as multi-generation independent living for quite some time.

And when the time comes for a new purpose, unlike an extra bedroom inside the house, it can easily evolve. From a teenage retreat to a pool cabana, it offers a comfortable, shaded escape that extends the pool season and creates a perfect spot for poolside relaxation and entertaining.

For now, though, it remains the practical solution that allowed Lisa and her family to secure their dream home without compromise.

Lisa’s Melwood is a Mod 18 measuring 3.2m x 5.4m.

It features a pre-primed weatherboard cladding upgrade to two sides with board and batten cladding to the remaining two. Aluminium windows are in “White” and Colorbond® roofing is in “Woodland Grey”.

All measurements are approximate.

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Practical Features to Include in Your Pool House Design

A well-designed pool house can transform your poolside experience, offering convenience, functionality, and style. Whether you use it for entertaining guests, as a changing area, or simply as a place to relax, incorporating the right features will make your pool house a valuable addition to your outdoor space. Here are some essential elements to consider when planning your pool house design.

Changing rooms for privacy and convenience

A dedicated changing room is a must-have in any pool house. It provides a private space for guests to change in and out of swimwear. This feature helps keep wet footprints and damp clothes out of your main house, preserving the cleanliness of your indoor living areas. Ensure the changing room is spacious enough to accommodate a small bench, hooks for hanging towels and clothing, and a mirror. Including shelving or cubbies for personal items can also be helpful for guests.

Bathrooms for added comfort

Adding a bathroom to your pool house enhances comfort and convenience, eliminating the need for trips back to the main house. A compact yet functional bathroom with a toilet, sink, and possibly a shower can make your pool house more self-sufficient. For a luxurious touch, consider installing an outdoor shower, which can be particularly useful for rinsing off after a swim. Make sure to include durable, water-resistant materials in your bathroom design to withstand humidity and frequent use.

Storage solutions to keep things organised

Practical storage is essential for maintaining a tidy and organised pool area. Include built-in cabinets, shelves, and storage benches in your pool house to store pool equipment, toys, towels, and cleaning supplies. Having designated spaces for these items helps keep the pool area clutter-free and ensures everything you need is close at hand. If space allows, consider a dedicated storage room with ample shelving and hooks for more oversized items like pool floats and garden tools.

Entertainment areas for socialising

A pool house can serve as an ideal spot for entertaining, providing a comfortable space for guests to relax and socialise. Designate a seating area with comfortable chairs, sofas, or even a small dining table where people can gather. Consider adding a mini kitchen or bar with a refrigerator, sink, and counter space for preparing snacks and drinks. For added entertainment, include a TV, sound system, or even an outdoor movie screen for poolside viewing.

Outdoor seating and shade solutions

Creating a comfortable outdoor seating area adjacent to your pool house can enhance your poolside experience. Include options like lounge chairs, a dining set, or a sectional sofa to accommodate different activities, from sunbathing to dining al fresco. Adding a covered patio, pergola, or retractable awning provides shade and protection from the elements, making the space usable in various weather conditions.

Multi-functional spaces for versatility

Designing your pool house with versatility in mind allows you to use the space for different purposes throughout the year. A pool house can double as a guest suite, home office, or fitness room, depending on your needs. Incorporate flexible design elements like fold-away furniture, partition walls, and modular layouts to easily transition the space from one function to another. This adaptability makes your pool house a more valuable asset to your property.

Temperature control for year-round comfort

To make your pool house comfortable throughout the year, consider adding climate control features. A small HVAC system can provide heating and cooling, making the space usable even during cooler months. Ceiling fans and strategically placed windows can promote natural ventilation, helping to keep the space cool during the summer. For extra warmth during the winter, consider installing a small fireplace or electric heater to create a cosy retreat.

Lighting for safety and ambience

Proper lighting is essential for both safety and ambience in your pool house. Install adequate lighting inside for changing rooms, bathrooms, and storage areas. Consider dimmable lighting in entertainment areas to create a relaxing atmosphere during evening gatherings. For the exterior, use pathway lights, wall-mounted fixtures, and underwater pool lights to enhance safety and visibility around the pool area. Solar-powered lights are a sustainable option for outdoor lighting, reducing energy consumption while keeping the area well-lit.

Creating the perfect pool house experience

By including these practical features in your pool house design, you can create a space that enhances your overall poolside experience. Whether it’s for entertaining guests, providing convenience, or simply relaxing by the pool, a well-designed pool house is a valuable addition to any property. Plan thoughtfully, choose quality materials, and don’t forget to add your personal touch to make your pool house truly your own.

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Belinda’s backyard multi-use Melwood

In just four short years, this family’s Melwood has had multiple makeovers, proving its versatility and value as a multi-use garden room.

Close up of cushion on chair in garden room

“We love our cabana…It has definitely been a positive addition to our home.”

Time to reimagine living space

What started as a creative lockdown solution for remote working has evolved into a multi-use garden room that the whole family has benefited from.

When COVID hit and lockdowns became the norm, families across Australia were forced to reimagine their living spaces.

With school campuses closed, parents working from home and families under the same roof 24/7, lack of space was suddenly highlighted as an issue for many. And, in Western Sydney, this was the case for Belinda and her family of six.

Seeking space and sanity

Seeking quick and cost-effective solutions, Belinda came across Greenspan, “It was an affordable way to add extra space,” she tells us. Purchased at the start of 2020, the timing of their new garden room could not have been better. With the pandemic upon us, Belinda’s husband, like so many, needed to suddenly transition to full-time remote working. Not so easy with four children also needing to study online from home.

And with so much time spent at home, families found themselves in need of ways to occupy themselves. For Belinda and her family, their new Melwood became the perfect project. “Our Melwood kept us busy during lockdown…painting and doing all the fitting out ourselves,” Belinda tells us.

A multi-use garden room that evolves with life

As restrictions eased and life changed, so did the garden room’s purpose. Shifting from full-time home office, the Melwood became the family’s focal point for relaxation and celebration. Situated next to an outdoor entertaining area, and adjacent to the pool and adjoining sun deck, it is the backyard centerpiece that ties these recreational elements together. “It adds a lovely relaxing and fun vibe to our backyard,” Belinda confirms.

And, as the centrepiece of the garden, the fun vibe continues when it comes to celebrating and entertaining, with the multi-use garden room transforming into the perfect party palace. “Our Melwood looked fantastic at my daughter’s 18th birthday, all lit up with LED lights,” Belinda recalls.

Scaling up for size

Belinda found adding a garden room to be a simple and hassle-free process. “I had already chosen the design and style we liked from the information on your website,” Belinda recalls, and visiting a Display Centre further cemented her decision.

By achieving a sense of space and size, and with some expert guidance from her Design Solutioneer, Belinda opted to scale up her plans.

It’s yet another decision that she doesn’t regret, offering advice to anyone thinking of doing the same: “We would suggest they go as large as they can fit into their space. You won’t be disappointed.”

The personalisation process

Belinda opted for the Mod 21, generously sized at 5.4m x 3.7m, and then made it hers through personalisation.

“We really liked that we had the ability to remove things we didn’t need or add things like windows and doors,” she tells us. Belinda omitted the Mod’s standard deck inclusion as her husband had another project in mind to keep him busy on weekends; building a spotted gum landing and steps to the entry.

Adding extra doors and windows to the already bright, open design maximises natural light, creating a light and breezy interior. And personalising the exterior with an all-white palette has created a crisp, modern look that perfectly complements the nearby pool and ties every element of the backyard’s landscaping together.

An outdoor shower added to one of the external walls allows for a pre- or post-swim rinse, before relaxing on the poolside deck.

Multiple makeovers for multiple uses

Nowadays, Belinda’s Melwood has taken on a new purpose in its journey as a multi-use garden room.

“We currently have our eldest daughter and boyfriend living in our cabana. They are in the process of looking for a rental property,” Belinda explains. And its spacious dimensions make it a more than comfortable bedroom and lounge, providing privacy and independence for the couple while they look for a more permanent home.

What started as a cost-effective and hassle-free lockdown project has proven to be invaluable for this family.

As life has evolved, so has this multi-use garden room. It has solved the issue of remote working, provided poolside refuge on scorching summer days, packed a punch when partying, and acted as extra living quarters for young home seekers.

Belinda sums up how her Melwood has enhanced everyday family living. “We love our cabana…It has definitely been a positive addition to our home.”

Belinda’s Melwood is a Mod 21 measuring 5.4m x 3.7m.

It features Board & Batten cladding, timber doors, aluminium windows in “White” and Colorbond® roofing in “Surfmist”.

All measurements are approximate.

Do you want a multi-use space that will evolve with life?

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A relaxing retreat to rest and recharge

Sometimes, you need a place where you can just ‘be’. A space to sit, relax, and enjoy some peace. An escape from the hustle and bustle of a busy household. A haven from the bustling backdrop of life.

A relaxing garden retreat, free from distractions, is a place where you can do exactly that.

“The relaxation and calmness are amazing. It’s an escape from the daily routine, like a holiday house.”

A recommendation for a relaxing retreat

When Serena and Dennis from Sydney’s North Shore had their pool installed, they envisioned completing it with a sheltered cabana – somewhere they could sit quietly and enjoy their new addition.

Their pool builders recommended Greenspan and having viewed the range, first online and then in the Display Centre, the couple agreed a Melwood would be perfect.

With immaculate gardens and a brand-new sparkling pool, Dennis and Serena had a very specific vision for their new garden room. A bright and breezy Melwood Mod, was the ideal starting point. The modern design with its crisp, clean lines was the perfect complement to their pristine pool and gardens.

A creative collaboration towards connection

Together with a Design Solutioneer, they made the modifications that would personalise their design and create exactly what they were after. Although Serena and Dennis made a number of changes, they found the task of personalisation to be effortless. “It was a very straightforward process,” they confirmed, “It was good to be able to see the product immediately on CAD and make the adjustments immediately.”

Dennis and Serena added sliding doors to the side and swapped the standard windows for additional doors. Coupled with the highlight windows that are the signature of this design, the result is an interior filled with natural light. Throwing the doors open on two sides connects the room and garden as one.

Set at the end of the aquamarine pool, surrounded by shiny white pavers, the garden room is styled to match. All white windows, doors and cladding are accented with a light grey roof and flashings. The white theme continues inside, highlighting the splashes of green foliage that connect the interior with the surrounding garden.

A relaxing retreat, unplugged from life

In doing so, Serena and Dennis have created a sanctuary in the backyard dedicated to leisure, reflection and relaxation. “It has allowed us to utilise space in our backyard,” Serena and Dennis tell us. What would have been unused space at the end of their pool now serves a purpose.

It’s a place to recharge. “Our family and I use it as a relaxing space for reading and meditation, away from electronics and the noise in the house,” Serena confirms, “It’s heaven for a busy mom…the relaxation and calmness are amazing”.

A holiday house at home

She describes it as “like a holiday house'” and we can see why.

This relaxing garden room is instantly soothing and distraction-free. No TV, no computer, it is truly an escape from the intrusions of life.

Serena now has a place to retreat to for some quiet ‘me-time’, telling us she enjoys it for reading, listening to music and enjoying the sounds of nature. What is more relaxing than sitting next to water, amongst immaculate gardens and surrounded by bird song?

And on the subject of water, naturally, their new Mod also serves as a pool cabana; a place to rest and escape from the sun between swims, sip on a cooling drink and enjoy the gardens.

A shared summer of serenity

Dennis and Serena also enjoy sharing the relaxing experience with friends and family, often entertaining guests in poolside style and comfort. “I love spending time with my friends, sipping on a couple of glasses of wine, and engaging in cheerful conversations during a sunset afternoon in this lovely pool house,” Serena says.

It has only been a few months since the couple invested in their new outdoor living space, but are already reaping its many benefits. With summer now upon us, there are many more sunshine-filled days ahead, enjoying the pool, sitting with friends and recharging from life.

Pure bliss!

Dennis and Serena’s Melwood is a Mod 15 measuring 5.4m x 2.6m.

It features Board & Batten cladding, aluminium windows in “White” and custom Colorbond® roofing in “Wallaby”. Serena and Dennis further personalised their design by adding double timber and sliding doors, and omitting the decking.

All measurements are approximate.

Are you seeking respite from the busyness of life?

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Staycationing: Bringing Bali to the backyard

When you live by a glorious beach in a classic coastal home set amongst palm trees and tropical plants, every day feels like a holiday.

Add a spacious cabana next to the glistening pool and your backyard is transformed into a luxury resort that you can enjoy without leaving home.

Staycationing has never been more appealing!

Poolside accommodation,
relaxation, recreation, study
and entertaining all in one.

Every day’s a holiday

France brought Bali to her backyard and created additional space that serves various family needs all year round.

With a beachside location in Avalon and a sparkling pool set amongst lush gardens, France’s home was already an enviable paradise.

But a Melwood Mod elevated this to a tropical oasis worthy of a 5-star rating and a double-page spread in a travel brochure.

Staycationing by the pool

With the pool set away from the main house, it made sense to add a cabana next to the pool. A cool and shady retreat between swims through the hotter months, or lazy poolside afternoon naps on the daybed. And with the addition of a minibar, refreshing drinks could be on hand without trekking back to the house.

Staycationing at its best!

Plus, France’s daughter, like many of her age, needed some quiet space every now and then. A teenage retreat for her to hang out, work or be creative would be a bonus.

Cohesive Hamptons beach house vibes

The existing home was brimming with Hamptons beach house vibes.

Classic weatherboard cladding painted in soft duck egg blue with white architraves and accents, and large windows and doors inviting the outside in. So, when France decided to extend her living space into the backyard, it needed to match this aesthetic and blend in seamlessly.

Ticking all these boxes was a Melwood Mod 23.

Generously proportioned, it could incorporate a multitude of uses and had a style that was already inspired by modern coastal vibes. Even better, France had the freedom to personalise the finished look to ensure a cohesive aesthetic with the rest of the property.

And she has certainly pulled that off.

France painted the weatherboard cladding duck egg blue and added white painted architraves to mirror the exterior of the main home. Additional windows and sidelights, and an upgrade to panorama windows, enhance the Hamptons styling while filling the interior with light.

Calm and coastal

Inside, the coastal holiday theme continues. And France successfully showcases how much space and versatility one garden room can offer a family!

With the walls all painted white, the large windows appear as picture frames for the lush oasis outside. Timber flooring and furniture and natural woven textures add warm, tropical vibes.

Double doors open from the deck into a relaxation and entertaining area, complete with a table and chairs, and a mini bar with a fridge and wet area.

The other end of the studio is furnished with a bed and desk providing plenty of dedicated space for rest and study.

All-in-one for work and play

With such a thoughtful layout, this cabana really is straight out of a holiday resort!

Self-contained poolside accommodation, with everything needed for a comfortable stay.

A pool house to retreat from the sun during the day.

A space to entertain friends and family poolside, night or day, hot and cold drinks on hand.

A tranquil rest area for a quiet read or a daytime snooze amongst the tropical gardens.

A teen retreat, and a peaceful study or work-from-home space (because we can’t holiday every day, can we?).

365 days of poolside pleasure

When the sun isn’t shining and tropical cocktails are swapped for a mulled wine or a hot chocolate, the cabana remains the central recreational hub. With the addition of this Melwood, enjoyment of the pool and gardens is extended into cooler months.

The holiday lifestyle and al fresco entertaining can continue, with the studio spilling out onto the deck and adjacent paved firepit area.

And when the fire isn’t being stoked and marshmallows aren’t being toasted, the cabana is a cosy space to relax, warmed by the split system A/C.

Staycationing inspiration

France’s Melwood really has transformed this backyard into a destination in its own right. A staycation spot that rivals tropical getaways and serves numerous family needs 365 days of the year.

While it may seem like you should be able to, unfortunately you can’t book a stay at this resort!

But, with summer approaching (and the cost of living rising) perhaps it’s got you thinking about staycationing.

After all, who needs the expense and the stress of travelling to faraway places, for just a week or two. You can create your very own year-round holiday destination, without even leaving home.

France’s Melwood is a Mod 23 measuring 7.2m x 3.2m.

It features weatherboard cladding, aluminium windows in “White” and Colorbond® roofing in “Surfmist”. France further personalised her design with additional windows and sidelights, and panorama window upgrades.

All measurements are approximate.

Do you want to holiday at home?

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After years of longing…the dream pool room

Meet the Tuckers

For years, the Tuckers had driven past one of the Greenspan Display Centres admiring the range of functional and stylish PreCrafted buildings on offer.

So, when the time came to landscape their garden and pool surroundings, they knew immediately where to head.

“We knew that a Melwood cabin would be the perfect size to create a pool house area,” Chris and Katrina tell us.

“Our experience was brilliant…
Very easy!”

Designing the dream pool room

After so much time dreaming of their own garden room, the Tuckers excitedly embarked on their journey to create the perfect pool house. And they found this to be a very easy process.

The first step was a Discovery Call with a Design Solutioneer; a consultation to fully understand their needs and find exactly the right solution. Establishing that a Mod 13 would be the ideal starting point, the Tuckers customised its dimensions to fit the space they had designated next to the pool.

Personalising the vision

Next, it was time to personalise. “The fun part was choosing the design features,” Chris and Katrina reflect. Opting for an upgrade to pre-primed weatherboard cladding to one side, they also added additional timber sidelights to the standard inclusion of a double-hung window, double doors, and highlight windows. This ensured a light, bright, and airy interior, ideal for looking over the pool and connecting with the surrounding garden.

To complete the journey, the Tuckers’ installers knew exactly what fitout would complement their vision, with Chris and Katrina telling us they “were fantastic to deal with, bringing lots of great design ideas”.

A hub of activity

The addition of the Tuckers’ Melwood cabana is more than the aesthetic feature they dreamed of for all those years. With growing, playful kids, the Tuckers’ Melwood has been an invaluable extension to their house. “Not only is it a beautiful addition to our back garden, it has been a significant addition to useable space in our home,” Chris and Katrina explain.

As a pool house, it really comes into its own in summer. Chris tells us it has become a dedicated area for the children to play games, watch TV, and unwind with their friends after a swim. The whole family enjoys relaxing in its shade when the temperatures rise and holding poolside movie nights on balmy evenings.

The charm doesn’t fade in cooler months when the pool room is still much-loved and used. The Tuckers have added a wraparound deck and a fire-table, creating the perfect setting for toasting marshmallows – a family favourite.

No room for improvement

The Tuckers’ Greenspan journey didn’t end when they finally brought their dream to life. We take immense pride in our craftsmanship and are genuinely invested in each and every one of our builds. We love revisiting our customers to see how they are enjoying their spaces years later – just like we did with Chris and Katrina.

And when asked what we could do to improve the customer experience, there wasn’t much to say except, “Our experience was brilliant, even the after-sales service years after purchasing the Melwood has been incredible”.

With this being our aim every single time, we’re thrilled to hear it!

The Tucker’s pool room is a custom Mod 13 measuring 3.7m x 3.6m.

It features Board and Batten cladding to three sides with a pre-primed weatherboard upgrade to the fourth. Two additional fixed glass sidelights were added to the standard inclusion of double doors, highlight windows and a double-hung window.

Colorbond® roofing is in “Surfmist” and aluminium windows are “White”.

All measurements are approximate.

Dreaming of a recreational space for your own garden?

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