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Outdoor pool patio


15 ways to create a fabulous poolscape |

(Image credit: Belgard)

Smart pool patio ideas are vital when creating a sophisticated poolscape, and to make yours a space suitable for relaxing, dining, entertaining, and the kids to enjoy.

A pool patio is a functional area that allows you to move around the swimming pool and climb in and out of the water safely. But it can also create sufficient level space for both seating and dining furniture. 

In addition, your patio has an aesthetic role to play in your landscaping, and should complement your pool ideas, other hardscaping materials and backyard ideas, and the house itself, for a harmonious effect.

So, if you are looking for patios to suit every pool and backyard, that will deliver when it comes to both practicality and style, this is the place to be.

Pool patio ideas for every yard

These pool patio ideas tackle everything from pool landscaping ideas to make the most of the space around the pool, to built-in seating ideas and even planting.

1. Size up the patio

(Image credit: Belgard)

A generous patio area creates space for relaxing by the pool without compromising on circulation space. But consider upsizing the pool patio further to add a separate dining or seating area that’s connected, but away from the splashes of pool users. 

This is more important if you're not considering pool house ideas that bathers can retreat to. Using the same pavers leads the eye so making your way there is inviting.

2. Mix materials

(Image credit: Bridgman)

One of our favorite pool patio ideas is teaming this feature of the poolscape with a second hardscaping material. 

Here, decking frames the swimming pool itself and provides a place for recliners right beside the water, while the pavers visually separate the dining zone.

If a contemporary look is what you’re after for your yard, follow this example and use large format pavers.

3. Make a small patio rich in interest

(Image credit: Future)

If you’ve been searching for pool patios suitable for small backyards, take inspiration from this rooftop design. Using different paver sizes and formats like the rectangular and square pavers here makes even a modestly sized patio a more interesting feature. 

Like the idea of taking this route? Choose between creating a pattern that has a repeating motif or a truly random layout. The latter can be easier to achieve with a small or unusual shaped patio. 

4. Play with color

(Image credit: Nedgis)

Choosing natural stone pavers with interesting color variation is another way to make the pool patio a fabulous decorative feature.

For a subtle effect, stick to pavers of the same dimensions and format, or choose to mix them and create pattern to boost the level of detail underfoot some more.

5. Build in seating

(Image credit: Future / Annaick Guitteny)

Here’s another of the pool patio ideas that can help make the most of a smaller space. Building seating into the patio can be a space-saving tactic for maximizing the utility of the area. 

If you're looking for pool area ideas that make the most of space, use this backyard as an example. Here, it’s the coping that doubles as seating in a situation where positioning outdoor chairs would block passage alongside the swimming pool.

But even on a large patio featuring an in-ground pool, built-in seating is a fabulous addition to freestanding furniture and ideal if you like to welcome a crowd.

6. Add color with your patio furniture

(Image credit: Sea Oats Captiva Island)

Decorating outdoors doesn't afford as many opportunities for color as you get inside, so take advantage of those chances when you can. 

Upholstered outdoor furniture comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, and you can use it to set the theme of your pool patio. The brightly colored cushions at the Sea Oats luxury vacation rental, above, nod to the aqua blue waters nearby, for example, enhancing the tropical feel of the space.

'Design inspiration here was all based around color,' says Michelle Barry, owner of Drip Castle Estate Collection  and the property's designer. 'We pulled the blue from the mosaic turtles in the pool and kept everything else white for a clean, modern esthetic.'

7. Get a sleek finish

(Image credit: The London Tile Co)

Super-sleek pool patio ideas include the use of large format porcelain pavers with a rectified edge.

The precise uniform finish of all four sides of each tile allows for a minimal grout joint and that combined with their generous dimensions results in a clean modern look. 

Porcelain can replicate the look of natural stone plus it’s stain resistant which, together with a thinner grout joint, makes this an attractive and easily maintainable patio option.

8. Create a spot in the shade

(Image credit: Swan Architecture)

Make the most of your pool patio with varied seating areas and the best outdoor furniture for your space. 

Lounge chairs are nice when you first get out of the water, but a conversation set tucked under an awning or veranda becomes an ideal spot to sit and enjoy lunch, read a book, or simply take a break from the sun.  

9. Make the transition

(Image credit: Belgard)

Instead of making the transition between lawn and pool patio a sudden one, think about mixing hard and softscape by laying pavers in the grass that leads to the patio. 

Make it modern with large square pavers in a precise pattern to avoid a country stepping-stone effect. And don’t forget you’ll need to keep up with edge trimming around the pavers for things to stay neat and tidy. 

10. Outline the swimming pool

(Image credit: Redwood Stone)

Choose contrasting coping as one of your pool patio ideas to draw attention to a curvaceous swimming pool like this one, or to distinguish the clean, crisp edges of a rectangular pool. 

The pale finish of this coping is sympathetic to the modern swimming pool, while the remainder of the patio features a traditional gray stone that complements the Gothic folly-style pool house.

11. Add a water feature

(Image credit: Future)

Consider adding a focal point to a pool patio to make it an attractive part of the backyard 12 months round, even if you live in a region where the pool is not in use for some period of the year.  

A water feature fills the role perfectly cascading from the patio into the pool. Designs can be slim walls of water, or you can go big with multiple flows, formations of rocks, or displays that incorporate your pool lighting ideas, too. 

12. Add striped patio umbrellas for a Cote D'Azur feel

(Image credit: Sea Palms Estate / Nick Adams )

Turn your pool patio into a slice of paradise with a row of striped beach umbrellas, evocative of luxe destinations like the Cote D'Azur, a la this luxury rental property in Captiva Island, Florida. Not only will umbrellas add to the ambience, but they come in handy at midday, or in spots without much shade.

'Our inspiration was modern Mediterranean, mixed with old Miami and graphic stripes to offset the classic design of the estate,' says Barry, whose company also owns the above property. 'We really wanted to play off the of a luxury beachfront property-tying everything together with a black and white cabana stripe fabric on pillows, ottomans, umbrellas and curtains. '

13. Change levels

(Image credit: Future)

For a large pool patio, consider a design with different levels that will provide more for the viewer to appreciate than a large, flat space.

Try garden zoning using low wide steps to mark the boundary from one functional part to another. They’ll create an elegant look that suits more formal garden designs, too.

Alternatively, you can break up the expanse of the pool patio with low walls against which to nestle seating areas or enclose dining areas. The result? A more intimate feel in the large space.

14. Add an outdoor fire pit with plenty of plush seating

(Image credit: Swan Architecture)

Extend the life of your pool patio with an outdoor fire pit. It'll make your pool deck a destination long after the sun goes down (opening the floodgates for some seriously fun pool party ideas), and even after pool season is over, too. 

For an even more inviting ambience, surround it with a cushioned conversation set.

15. Choose red brick pavers for Mediterranean style

(Image credit: Sea Palms Estate / Nick Adams )

When it comes to choosing a material for your pool patio, gray brick or taupe-colored pavers are common choices. But, if your architecture leans toward Mediterranean or Spanish Colonial style, a red brick pool patio is a natural complement. 

What’s the best surface to put around a pool?

The best surface to put around a pool is one that is non-slip when wet, comfortable to walk on with bare feet, and that won’t become unpleasantly hot in the height of summer. 

Natural stone with a textured surface is an attractive option, and can be matched or harmonized with other hardscaping in the yard. Porcelain tile, meanwhile, can replicate the appearance of stone and is easy to look after. 

Other options include poured concrete with a brushed finish or with exposed aggregates that prevent slips, cement pavers, and bricks, although the latter won’t suit the hottest regions.  

Wood decking is a further possibility, but will need regular maintenance to stay in good condition. Alternatively, choose a composite version that looks the part but needs minimal care.

How much does a patio around a pool cost?

The cost of a patio around a pool will depend on the materials you choose for the patio, its dimensions and any challenges created by the site. 

For an in-ground pool, expect to pay from around $5 per square foot for pavers plus labor if you’re calling in a contractor to take on the job for you. Porcelain tile starts at a similar price, while natural stone might cost from around $15 per square foot. 

Again, labor is an additional cost. Poured concrete might cost around $15 per square foot or more for the material itself as well as labor. 

If you pick wood decking, expect to pay from around $5 per square foot, or from around $10 per square foot for composite.

A pool patio is a must-have for an in-ground pool, and should be considered when you're budgeting for the cost to build a pool.  

In the UK, a concrete patio might cost around £50 per square metre including labor, one in porcelain around £55 per square metre, and in natural stone around £50 per square metre.

Sarah is a freelance journalist and editor. Previously executive editor of Ideal Home, she’s specialized in interiors, property and gardens for over 20 years, and covers interior design, house design, gardens, and cleaning and organizing a home for H&G. She’s written for websites, including Houzz, Channel 4’s flagship website, 4Homes, and Future’s T3; national newspapers, including The Guardian; and magazines including Future’s Country Homes & Interiors, Homebuilding & Renovating, Period Living, and Style at Home, as well as House Beautiful, Good Homes, Grand Designs, Homes & Antiques, LandLove and The English Home among others. It’s no big surprise that she likes to put what she writes about into practice, and is a serial house renovator. 

Top 6 Pool Deck & Patio Design Ideas

Photo courtesy of Pamela Self Landscape Architecture, Ltd.

 

The patio defines how you enjoy your time outdoors. An essential part of the poolscape, a patio has seemingly limitless uses, between sunbathing, dining, socializing, relaxing, playing games, and more. Your pool’s patio design should match not only the style of your swimming pool and your home, but should also complement your lifestyle.

Take a look at these six featured pool patio designs below to gather ideas for creating your ideal poolside living space.

 

1. Sun Deck

Photo courtesy of Platinum Poolcare, Ltd.

A sun deck patio is designed for simple poolside relaxation. It’s a place to cool off, unwind, and enjoy the sunshine after taking a dip in the pool. Located along the perimeter of the swimming pool, a sun deck can resemble the look and feel of a luxurious hotel or resort when lined with rows of stylish outdoor chaise lounges.Photo courtesy of Shawn Tailbot Photography; Designed by Skip Phillips, Questar Pools & Spas, Inc; Built by Valley Pool and Spa

An in-pool sun deck, or tanning shelf, is another patio design ideal for poolside lounging. A tanning shelf is a large shallow area, typically 5 – 8 inches deep, situated at the entry of the pool. It can span the entire width of the pool or just a small section.

 

2. Bistro Patio

A bistro patio works great for smaller backyards or for those desiring a quiet space to relax and enjoy the view.Photo courtesy of Aquatech Society: Aquatech Pools by CHI

This small patio design consists of a bistro table and two chairs and can be part of the pool area or detached by a small pathway, as shown in the picture above.

 Photo courtesy of Rugged Class Waterfalls & Pools; Photography by Stephen K. Wolfe

While a bistro patio design is ideal for pool areas with limited space, it also works well in larger environs. The poolscape above features three separate bistro patio areas.  Each nook offers a different view of the surrounding landscape and establishes a more intimate atmosphere. A firepit adds a cozy touch for summer nights spent al fresco.

 

3. Garden Oasis 

Photo courtesy of Dolphin Pools & Spas

An alternative to the conversation-style patio design, a garden oasis aims to enhance the pool’s natural setting. Seating areas are kept to a minimum and, instead, lush plantings and natural materials inhabit the space. A garden oasis design often lends an away-from-home feeling.Photo courtesy of Blue Haven Pools & Spas

By enclosing the pool in colorful blossoms and flourishing greenery, you can turn you patio into a serene escape where your worries fade away. The addition of a water feature, like a waterfall or bubbling fountain, provides the tranquil sound of cascading water to sooth your soul.Photo courtesy of Artistic Pools, Inc.

Even the simplest of pool patios can be turned into a garden oasis with the use of containers or decorative planters. The beautiful planters flanking this formal pool design add visual interest and help anchor the space.

 

4. Covered Patio

A covered patio allows you to lay out by the pool without getting too much sun. It offers a comfortable outdoor living space, especially for pools situated further from the home.Photo courtesy of Master Pools Builder: Pool Builders, Inc.; Photography by Kevin Ford

From a curtained cabana to a wooden pergola to a custom-designed pavilion like the one pictured above, a covered patio can be a place to relax, entertain, or enjoy the shade.Photo courtesy of Janice Parker Landscape Design; Photo by Neil Landino

The poolside loggia (above), comprised of a pergola framed by two stone structures, offers sunbathers a cool escape from the heat. The fieldstone cabana on the right provides a convenient area to change and features outdoor showers on the exterior wall.

 

5. Outdoor Room

Outdoor room patio designs bring the comfort and conveniences of your favorite indoor room right to your poolscape. An outdoor living room becomes the prime spot for socializing with family and friends.Photo courtesy of Walnut Hill Landscape Company; Photo by Michael Prokopchak

Deep-seating patio furniture and a custom fireplace are essential to the design of this cozy indoor-outdoor type of setting. David Tisherman’s Visuals, Inc.; Photo courtesy of ©Costea Photography

An outdoor dining room is paramount for pool owners who regularly enjoy dining al fresco on the patio. The key element to a successful outdoor room? An outdoor dining set with a table large enough to accommodate family members as well as guests during outdoor parties.Photo courtesy of Mark Scott Associates

An outdoor kitchen will further enhance the design of an outdoor dining room and make carrying food to the table as easy as pie. The gourmet outdoor kitchen pictured above also includes an outdoor TV for guests to enjoy as they stop by the swim-up bar adjoining the kitchen area.

 

6. Backyard Retreat

The ultimate in poolside living, a backyard retreat patio design can encompass several—or all—outdoor activities, from lounging in the sun to dining al fresco to entertaining friends.Photo courtesy of Concord Pools and Spas; Project Designer, David Cerniglia

This grand poolside environment can easily accommodate a number of guests for a summer barbecue, yet feels intimate when just the family is around.

In designing your pool and patio, it’s important to consider your lifestyle needs—do you prefer an elaborate resort for family fun and large parties or a simple backyard haven for relaxation and casual gatherings with family and friends?

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