Ripples of Innovation

Defining durability to create the perfect backyard experience

In 1973, Ray Awadallah established Blue Haven Pools to redefine backyard living. His introduction of above-ground, vinyl-lined pools provided families an affordable and convenient way to enjoy their outdoor spaces. But it wasn’t just about accessibility—Ray’s commitment to quality led to a key innovation that significantly enhanced the strength and durability of these pools. He staged a bold demonstration to prove it: an elephant walking into an aboveground pool.

This moment reinforced Blue Haven’s reputation for Jumbo durability (pardon the pun) and inspired the company’s elephant logo. In the 1980s, this image became the focal point of a television commercial that brought national attention to the brand. The commercial showcased the strength of Blue Haven Pools in a way that resonated with audiences, establishing the company as a trusted name in the industry.

Under Ray’s leadership, Blue Haven grew from a local business into an international brand, expanding into markets across Europe and the USA. The 1990s marked a pivotal shift as the company transitioned to concrete pools in Australia, making high-quality designs more accessible to homeowners, without compromising quality.

New era of leadership

By 2011, after decades of growth, Ray passed the leadership torch to his daughter, Remonda Awadallah, ushering in a new era of modernization. Having worked alongside her father since the age of 14, Remonda deeply understood the company’s operations and values. As Managing Director, she has embraced the changing landscape of consumer behavior and set out to transform how people buy pools.

Recognizing a shift in customer expectations, she championed a digital-first approach that simplified the buying process. “We’ve come full circle—people are more informed, know what they want, and want a seamless experience,” Awadallah explains. With this in mind, Blue Haven became the first company in the world to offer custom-designed concrete pools available for purchase online, revolutionizing an industry long reliant on traditional sales methods.

Personalized pool design

Blue Haven’s approach to pool design is highly personalized, shaped by three key factors: engineering challenges, compliance requirements, and the client’s architectural vision. Beyond personal preferences, these elements ensure that each project is visually stunning, structurally sound, and fully compliant with Australian building standards.

Engineering considerations are necessary in determining the feasibility and execution of a pool design. Sloping terrain, rocky or sandy soil conditions, and natural landscapes require specialized solutions. Some projects involve pools built into the side of a cliff, requiring extensive retaining structures, while others incorporate sunken designs that blend seamlessly into the surrounding environment. Each site presents unique challenges, and Blue Haven’s expertise in structural engineering allows them to create pools that maximize stability and aesthetics.

Compliance is another critical component. Australian building regulations dictate everything from pool safety standards to neighbor privacy considerations and the ratio of hardscape to landscaping. Blue Haven ensures that every design meets or exceeds these standards, allowing for smooth certification processes while maintaining the integrity of the client’s vision. Regulations surrounding fencing, water displacement, and environmental impact must also be factored in, requiring careful planning to balance form and function.

Finally, integrating a client’s architectural style ensures that the pool complements existing and future structures. Whether the goal is a sleek, modern aesthetic, a resort-inspired retreat, or a classic, timeless design, Blue Haven works closely with clients to align their pool with the overall vision of their home. This approach ensures a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the property’s visual appeal and functionality.

Freestanding fiberglass pools

Blue Haven continues to push the boundaries of pool design with groundbreaking solutions that redefine convenience and efficiency. One of their most recent innovations is the freestanding fiberglass swimming pool—a lightweight yet exceptionally durable precast structure that arrives ready to swim. Unlike traditional pools that require excavation and structural reinforcements, this design simplifies installation by eliminating the need for full shoring, additional steel, and requires virtually no on site build time.

This fiberglass pool is designed explicitly for out-of-ground applications and is ideal for rooftops, sloping blocks, and above-ground installations. Traditional out-of-ground concrete pools require significant structural support, adding substantial time and cost to a project. However, the freestanding fiberglass model is a drop-in solution, drastically reducing construction time and expenses while maintaining a sleek, modern aesthetic. Once placed, it only requires filtration installation, allowing homeowners to enjoy their pool almost immediately. This efficiency makes it an attractive option for properties where conventional pools are difficult or cost-prohibitive to install.

Automation: a smarter way to swim

Beyond structural innovations, Blue Haven is also pioneering advancements in automation, making pool ownership more seamless than ever. Modern pools are now equipped with intelligent systems that communicate directly with a homeowner’s mobile device, sending real-time alerts for maintenance needs such as adding salt or acid. This allows easy monitoring and control, whether adjusting water balance or activating spa jets and waterfalls. “We’ve had funny stories of customers telling us they’ve turned on spa jets or waterfalls while their family or children are in the pool,” Awadallah shares. “And they’re wondering, ‘How did this happen?’ Meanwhile, Dad’s controlling it from his phone.”

The app-controlled system also enhances energy efficiency, allowing users to schedule heating so that their pool is ready to use when they arrive home. These advancements align with today’s demand for low-maintenance, high-tech solutions, ensuring that pool ownership is effortless and enjoyable.

Mineral-rich water

In addition to structural and technological advancements, Blue Haven is at the forefront of mineral pool technology. Traditional chlorine and saltwater pools are now replaced with magnesium- and potassium-rich water systems, offering a healthier, more luxurious swimming experience. These mineral-based pools provide therapeutic benefits, soothe muscles, and promote relaxation while reducing the harsh effects of traditional pool chemicals on skin and hair.

Blue Haven’s EnviroSmart Mineral Pool system also incorporates high-efficiency pumps and filtration systems, significantly reducing water usage—by approximately 15,000 liters per year—and power consumption, which saves homeowners up to $800 annually. With antimicrobial cartridge filters, water quality remains pristine while promoting eco-friendly practices.

Investing in people

Blue Haven’s success is driven by its dedicated workforce, which strongly emphasizes cultivating a positive and innovative culture. The company recognizes its people as its greatest asset and ensures every team member embodies its commitment to excellence. “Everyone represents us at every step of the way, always,” Awadallah says. This philosophy is reflected in a hands-on approach to training, where the focus extends beyond recruitment—it’s about unlocking potential, nurturing talent, and providing employees with the tools to excel.

Rather than prioritizing experience, Blue Haven invests in training from the ground up, often bringing in individuals straight out of high school through apprenticeships in trades such as plumbing, carpentry, and pool construction. However, the company understands that career paths are not always linear. Employees are encouraged to explore different facets of the business, whether in technical trades, design, marketing, or customer service. Many apprentices begin in one trade and later transition to roles that better align with their skills and interests. With exposure to multiple aspects of pool building—including excavation, soil assessment, concrete work, tiling, and landscaping—employees gain a comprehensive understanding of the industry, making them well-rounded professionals capable of adapting to various roles within the organization.

Beyond developing trade skills, Blue Haven is committed to supporting its employees’ personal and financial growth. Young tradespeople often enter the workforce with limited financial knowledge, and the company actively guides them toward responsible financial planning. Blue Haven provides education beyond the job site, covering budgeting, savings strategies, and informed decision-making on vehicle investments and long-term financial stability. “When they’re young, it’s very important,” Awadallah explains. “And it often gets overlooked.”

Bringing designs to life

As Blue Haven moves forward, the company has set its sights on enhancing customer experiences through immersive showroom environments. Plans are underway to incorporate virtual reality technology, enabling clients to visualize their future pools within their existing backyards. This advancement aims to bridge the gap between conceptual designs and tangible outcomes, making decision-making more engaging and informed.

Additionally, Blue Haven is exploring collaborations to expand its product offerings. One such initiative involves partnering with an outdoor furniture company to create an exclusive range tailored to complement their pool designs. While specifics remain under wraps, this venture signifies Blue Haven’s commitment to providing comprehensive outdoor living solutions.

Blue Haven Pools has consistently been recognized for its trailblazing efforts in the construction industry, earning a spot in the Financial Review’s Top 10 Most Innovative Companies in 2021 and again in 2024. Looking ahead, Awadallah is eager to continue forging partnerships with innovative minds and companies. “It’s not often that new things happen in our industry, and being front and center of innovation is our priority,” she says. “We welcome collaboration with those who are pushing the industry forward. The power is in the collaboration of minds, and we want to be the vessel that brings these innovations to life.”

At a Glance

Who: Blue Haven Pools and Spas

What: An award-winning Australian pool builder specializing in custom-designed concrete and fibreglass pools.

Where: New South Wales, Australia

Website: www.bluehaven.com.au

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