Decking ideas around pools


10 beautiful decks for around the pool |

(Image credit: Future)

Looking for pool deck ideas to inspire your backyard oasis? While it’s a major investment, the benefits of adding a pool with deck area to a property are undeniable.

Although deck ideas have been a staple of the boat building business for centuries, this design approach didn't enter the interiors world until the 60s. Where once pavers reined supreme, we are now seeing more and more people choose deck to use around the pool area. 

Over the years, decking's usage has expanded, and it has become the go-to material for a contemporary pool ideas. Materials have also come into their own. While early decks were made out of first-generation hardwoods, now it's hard-wearing composites and eco products made of recycled materials that are all the rage. We are also experimenting with stains and widths to give the wood a very contemporary feel.

Pool deck ideas

If you love to spend time outdoors, you're just a few pool deck ideas away from basking in the afternoon sun, or hosting friends and family for a summer pool party like no other.

1. Strike a softer note underfoot

(Image credit: Future / Mark Bolton Photography)

Don’t rule out using pool deck ideas as an alternative to pavers when designing a pool area for your backyard. It’s another way to create a cool and sturdy feel underfoot, and can also help blend the pool area into the surrounding landscaping, or link it to a home with wood siding. 

Choose a wood such as cedar, teak or ipê that will stand up to the demanding conditions, and bear in mind that it will have maintenance requirements. 

‘Another option to consider is using some of the non-slip composites instead (made from polymer and wood fiber) which are sustainable and much more durable,’ says Fellow of the Society of Garden Designers and CEO of Bowles & Wyer John Wyer.  ‘If you’re absolutely sold on the wood look, you could use non-slip porcelain planks, which are available in a wide variety of wood-like finishes.’

2. Invest in hardwearing timber

(Image credit: Future/Mark Bolton)

At its best, a timber pool deck is a handsome, hard-wearing surface that complements most pool areas. It’s a natural material that provides a sympathetic background to plants, blending beautifully with the water from the pool. Timber lends itself to different styles of architecture and design. A pool deck can be designed in a smart, contemporary look, as easily as in a more traditional style.

But pool deck ideas don’t only look good: other advantages include being relatively lightweight in comparison to stone, quick and easy to install and forgiving. Timber can be cut to size to fit perfectly round awkward corners, and is easily extended at a later date.

3. Let you deck get better with age

(Image credit: Future / James Merrell)

When it comes to pool deck ideas, there is so much scope for imaginative designs using wood stains, available in a wide selection of colors. 

An informal look is created when decking is left natural and allowed to weather with time, turning a silvery-grey which, for a deck color idea that blends beautifully with plants and the natural landscape. A good compromise is to treat the decking with a wood oil that simply enhances the natural beauty of the wood – products made for treating timber boats are ideal.

4. Provide a tranquil spot for seating

(Image credit: Future)

Transform your pool area into an extension of your home by curating an outdoor living room on the deck. All it takes is a little planning, design know-how and expert advice.

‘Your pool deck area should always be thought of as an extension of your home, so it’s important to bring the comfort of indoors outside. One way to do this is to set up a shaded seating area by the pool area,' says OKA ’s co-founder and creative director, Sue Jones.

To make the most of this ‘extra room’, we must think creatively about how to plan, design and decorate. An outdoor living area should offer all the comforts and style of an indoor living room but also be designed with the weather, privacy and surrounding features such as patios, planting and lawns in mind.

5. Think about modern materials

(Image credit: Future)

When it comes to modern garden design, wood pool deck is ideal for transforming smaller spaces, particularly roof terraces, balconies and courtyards. Offering a sleek link between your interior and exterior, real wood can create the sense of an extended living area, especially if the flooring materials are complementary.

With so much choice available when it comes to materials this is where things can get expensive, so it’s important to consider your budget so costs don’t spiral out of control.

You will want something that’s easy to maintain so bear in mind that smooth deck options are the best choice as water can pool in the grooves of ridged designs, but you will still need to oil them regularly to keep them protected against the elements and to retain their colour.

6. Use deck to divide a natural pool

(Image credit: Future / © Roy Westwood)

A wooden boardwalk runs alongside this swimming pond. The natural pool has been split into two zones – one for swimming: and one for planting, which acts as a biological filter to keep the water clean and clear.

The ‘natural’ swimming pool is the style most rapidly gaining favor in country garden ideas, not only for its visual appeal, but also its eco-credentials. 

7. Mix materials around a pool 

(Image credit: Mark Luscombe-Whyte)

When designing a pool deck area, it’s vital to consider how much hardscaping your backyard idea requires around the pool. Think about how much furniture will be located there? Should it incorporate distinct seating as well as a dining area? How much space do you want to allow for circulation?

‘A generous border of deck and concrete pavers or slabs around the pool allows for sun loungers and the ability to walk without worrying about getting to the edge,’ explains landscape designer Marcus Barnett .

8. Build a raised deck 

(Image credit: Future)

If you're looking for small deck ideas, a custom design is a great choice, because it'll be built to maximize the space around your pool area for dining and socializing.

'A custom deck is a uniquely designed structure that meets your specific needs and preferences,' says Sam Toole CMO of TimberTech, a composite decking company. 'Working with a contractor for a custom-built deck ensures your deck is built to the right specifications for lasting performance.'

Here, the wood deck adds a sense of warmth to the harder patio ideas, and helps delineate the dining area from the nearby pool area. 

9. Use deck to create pathways

(Image credit: Future)

It’s not a surprise that pool deck is now used so widely. It can be widened into platforms or narrowed into paths to link different areas, binding together a garden’s design. 

In small or narrow pool areas, deck may even be used to replace lawn and paving, flowing in an unbroken series of paths, terraces and seating. With forward planning, lighting cables and water pipes can be concealed beneath, opening up options for deck lighting ideas that rival interior rooms. 

10.

Take you deck up a level

(Image credit: Future)

An outdoor room that is an immediate extension of the home suits a scheme in which all furnishings – deck, pool house, seating, sun loungers, container garden ideas – are color coordinated.

Deck is a godsend for split-level areas – built up into a platform or stepped downwards to cope with a sloping site. It draws the eye around the pool area, making it appear both wider and longer.

What decking is best around a pool?

Real wood is considered to be the best deck to use around a pool. ‘I see real wood as a big trend in decking,’ says garden designer Catherine Clancy. Always choose timber certified as coming from renewable plantations with a forest certification scheme (FSC). ‘There are so many natural wood products out there at the moment like Thermowood, a heat-treated softwood that fades to a lovely soft grey over time,’ she says. Real wood is a sustainable choice, too. If high-quality timber is used and maintained, a deck can last up to 30 years.

‘A pool deck is only going to last as long as its sub-frame so this is the key element and should be built to last,’ says landscape designer Rae Wilkinson. ‘There are settings to consider sustainably produced composite decking board, such as around a pool or in deep shade, but it’s worth bearing in mind that they all contain plastic, which poses a longer term environmental problem in terms of disposal.’

Most pool decks are made from pressure-treated softwoods, as it is a less costly option, but more durable hardwoods, such as ipê, balau and iroko, as well as oak, are a great choice if budget allows. Nicknamed ‘African teak’, iroko has a luxe appeal. Balau is another tropical wood that’s strong and water-resistant. Ipê stands out for its durability and density. You could also think about using reclaimed wood for something original and environmentally responsible. Whatever you end up choosing, you can’t go wrong with real wood for a timeless, beautiful and long-lasting result.

Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.

26 Pool Deck Ideas Perfect for Lounging and Socializing

By

Farima Ferguson

Farima Ferguson

Farima Ferguson began her career at HGTV where she worked with designers to write about home design. Her work has appeared in HGTV, Insider Reviews, Travel Channel, and more.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Published on 05/09/22

Mindy Gayer

It's time to put away those winter coats and bring out your sandals and beach towels. With warmer summer months ahead, you can finally look forward to enjoying your backyard pool retreat. Whether you can't make that summer trip happen or you've vowed to take more staycations this year, your own backyard pool can be a great summer retreat with the right layout and look.

To help you make the most of your space, we dive into our favorite pool deck ideas, from traditional to modern styles, that will have you enjoying relaxing days as well as fun gatherings all season long.

6 useful and beautiful ideas for decorating the pool on the site (want to repeat)

1 Plant plants around the perimeter

If you want to enliven the pool area and fit it into the country landscape, plant flowers and shrubs around the perimeter. It is also worth considering plants if the pool is adjacent to the fence to delimit this transition.

Ferns, banana, southern cordilina, Chinese rose, juniper and agapanthus usually look good and grow around the reservoir. Do not plant plants close to the water so that the spray from the pool does not fall on them. You can also grow greens in pots and containers, so they will be above the water level.

Luminaires can be spot or fiber optic. Flat recessed light bulbs are always mounted on the sides, which are not afraid to step on. Not far from the pool, you can equip spotlights to highlight the plants and decor.

Instagram: @anthonywilderdesignbuild

Instagram: @anthonywilderdesignbuild

Instagram: @anthonywilderdesignbuild

Unsplash

Unlike beach umbrellas, it can be left assembled in any weather, as it is firmly attached to the ground. The tent gives more shade, so a dining table or several sunbeds are placed under it. Plus, it can be completed with insect screens or light curtains for more privacy.

Instagram: @bsvillage.piscine

Instagram: @bsvillage.piscine

4 Choose stylish loungers

A classic poolside lounge area usually includes loungers. Try to refuse plastic models: they are not very durable and look unaesthetic. Plus, they get hot in the sun, so you'll need to put a towel on.

It is better to choose a folding bed with a fabric base. Its frame can be wood or metal. Wooden couches with thin mattresses on them also look very stylish. Sun loungers should be supplemented with beach umbrellas if there is no other source of shade nearby. Let them match the furniture in style and color.

Instagram: @anthonywilderdesignbuild

Instagram: @bsvillage.piscine

Unsplash

5 Lay out wood decking

Wood decking around the pool looks very nice and natural. To create it, you can use an ordinary terrace board - it is not afraid of dampness. Modular garden parquet made of wood-polymer composite is also suitable. It is more expensive than decking, but easier to install. In addition, the composite has a longer service life.

Instagram: @bsvillage.piscine

Unsplash

Instagram: @nadejda_volosova

6 Choose a beautiful mosaic

Lay out the pool with a beautiful mosaic - the area will become more attractive without additional decor. You can create a pattern or pattern with it, it must be proportional to the size of the pool. You should not choose obvious solutions like fish or dolphins. For example, bright contrasting flowers will look very nice. Or just a colorful mosaic that shimmers underwater.

House + House Architects

Pool Cover
Whether you're planning to frolic in the water with your kids, take a slow swim, or engage in sports activities, the pleasure of swimming can be spoiled by a slippery cold surface (tiles, for example) that awaits a swimmer at the exit of the pool. pool. In addition, you must constantly monitor your every step so as not to slip and fall.

What criteria? Materials must be durable, non-slip and at the same time decorative. So, sand dries for a long time after rain, gravel gets very hot in the sun, and walking on it is not very comfortable.

1. Tiles Most often, paving slabs are used to decorate the area around the pool - they will decoratively complement the composition near the pool, since a huge number of patterns can be created from it. In addition, paving stones do not require special care.

Architectural studio Chado

2. Mosaic. Special collections with non-slip surfaces are available for swimming pools. Their only drawback is the limited color range (usually these are variations of blue)

Wettling Architects

3. Concrete casting. Such a side will not heat up even under the scorching sun. The second step is already comfortably done on soft grass. Such a decision can only be made at the time of laying the pool (not suitable for already functioning pools). And one more thing - it is unlikely that the concrete strip will be wider than 1 meter

DANIEL HUNTER AIA Hunter architecture ltd.

4. Natural stone - Pay attention to the rough surface of the slabs (non-slip, this is important for covering around the pool). But it's quite expensive0005

Franck Minieri, Photographer

5. Pebbles or gravel - this option is recommended for partially shaded areas: the stone gets quite hot in the sun

Pauchard Paysages

6. Wooden decking 9008 device The most suitable option for our climate wooden podium. A beautiful podium will help fit the pool into the landscape of the site, visually connect with the environment.

If you choose a board made of moisture-resistant and durable wood (teak or oak) and additionally treat the material with an antiseptic agent, the beach in the country house will take on a decorative look.

TaC studios, architects

The area around the outdoor pool can also be decorated with decking (terrace board) or modular (garden) wood-polymer composite (WPC) parquet. Its only drawback is that the material is expensive, but it is extremely easy to install, very convenient to use and has a long service life.

Andrea Calo

Pool liner (when the bowl is up)
The bowl liner must be beautiful and visually striking, as it is the face of the pool. For these purposes, mosaic, ceramic tile or coping stone is used. Most often, preference is given to coping - an artificial decorative stone created specifically for facing the sides of the pool, so it is also called a side stone (look at the photo).

Lost West

The outer sides of the pool can be fitted with planed board sides covered with waterproof lacquer. The advantage is that such a pool is very beautiful, original and organic. Outwardly attractive, it immediately arouses interest. At the same time, it fits perfectly into the buildings made of wood and looks very harmonious against the backdrop of nature. The second advantage is environmental friendliness, which is extremely valuable these days.

TimberTech

Spa instead of pool
Why not add a touch of luxury to your garden by installing a Jacuzzi pool amid lush greenery and enjoy all the benefits of hydrorelaxation and hydrotherapy without leaving your favorite garden. Jacuzzi models specially designed for the Russian climate perform flawlessly outdoors all year round.

AquaBluePools

Rue Group, Inc. / Kathryn Rue, Landscape Architect

Build an underwater stone partition between the swimming area and the hot tub. To give the overall ensemble a dynamic effect, build two small fountains into the wall: let one flow into the pool, and the other into the jacuzzi.

Use natural materials to create your spa area. This will harmoniously integrate the jacuzzi into the landscape. The pergola covered with greenery, the wood of the terrace, the natural stone of the retaining wall and the pool of the mini-pool in sand or graphite shade together form an idyllic backdrop for relaxation and relaxation. For more exotic, build a stone fountain in a secluded corner of the garden.

Plants around the pool
Before landscaping around the pool, decide what kind of landscape you prefer: tropical, natural, calm, etc. There are some practical considerations to keep in mind when planning and selecting plants.

Studio William Hefner

  • It is strictly forbidden to plant ornamental plants in the pool or on the shore, as the chlorine water will kill them, and the attractive pool will become like a pond, and the convenience of swimming is out of the question.
  • Must be container planted. In this case, the plants will not directly interact with water, and they can always be brought into the room (in bad weather or in winter), as well as swapped, changing the type of recreation area.
  • Do not plant lush vegetation around the pool, because the remains of leaves and plants clog the water, as well as the bottom and walls of the pool.
  • The most hardy species should be selected and, if possible, the beds should be placed above the water level. The most practical, as I noted above, are potted plants. Southern cordilina (Cordyline australis), Chinese rose (Hibiscus), glorious yucca (Yucca gloriosa) and oleander will do well in pots, juniper in boxes, and agapanthus in small wide clay bowls. Plants should be placed as far from the shore as possible. Using pots with a narrow top reduces the chance of soil getting into the water if the pot is accidentally dropped. It is best to grow plants with leathery leaves on the shore.

Harold Leidner Landscape Architects

Apex Landscapes & Pools

Falling Water Custom Pools, Inc.

Relaxation area near the water
After swimming and feeling the magic of water to the full, you will certainly want to sunbathe or drink a soft drink. Therefore, the main element of the country pool is the recreation area. It can be: a small gazebo, sun loungers, garden furniture under a beach umbrella and even a rocking chair. It is also recommended to equip a playground near the pool so that the children can relax next to you.

To create a functional beach in your country house, mount the pool lighting and recreation area lighting to be able to enjoy swimming and relaxing by the pool even at night.

A fireplace or an outdoor fireplace will look very impressive near the pool.

Terra Rubina

Bill Fry Construction - Wm. H. Fry Const. Co.

Outdoor shower
Garden shower has become an essential element of any suburban area. With it, it is easy to remain "civilized" even in a very "wild" dacha. More recently, a shower for a summer residence was identified exclusively with a modest, unsightly structure in the yard, built from building remains. Today in stores you can find a wide variety of ready-made summer showers for summer cottages. But the most interesting and cheaper thing is to create shower cabins in a “construction” design.

The place must be protected from the wind, because even at high air temperatures a draft can provoke a cold. If a container (water tank) is expected, the shower room should be located on the sunny side of the site. For a shower without a tank, proximity to a water source is important, for example, near the wall of the house.

Surround the building with exotic flowers, trees and shrubs (or place them inside). Taking a shower in such a cabin is a real pleasure: one feels unity with nature; water procedures, fresh air and the beauty of forms give rise to harmony and contribute to the normalization of the psychological state.

It is absolutely not necessary to pack a shower stall in the manner of an interior, plastic one - take a wooden changing cabin as a basis, which leaves the head of the person inside visible.

Wood always looks harmonious in the landscape. In addition, if the exterior decoration of the house is made of wood or imitates it, such an outdoor shower will fit perfectly into the design of the territory.

Dean Herald-Rolling Stone Landscapes

Garden bathroom
Hedonists can install a bathroom with hot water in the patio. An open-air spa treatment with an infusion of herbs and flowers and fragrant rose petals from your own garden will give you a wonderful rest and rejuvenate at the end of the day. In addition to pleasant sensations, as a result of the appropriate procedure, you can get a huge dose of vitamin D and, of course, a powerful charge of positive emotions.

Michael Glassman & Associates

The main thing is to create a relaxing atmosphere with low tables, chairs and couches near the bath; romance will add candles and crystal vases.


Learn more