Pools and landscape designs
Unique Pool Landscaping Ideas – Forbes Home
There is nothing wrong with keeping your pool landscaping simple. But if you want a true oasis, turn to pool landscaping ideas that will help take your backyard to the next level. For truly gorgeous pool landscaping, dream bigger than a concrete walkway around the water. Instead imagine aromatic flowers, upgraded pavers, inviting seating areas and great lighting that will allow you to enjoy this close-to-home escape well into the night.
After all, “landscaping” doesn’t just describe greenery and rocks. For complete pool landscaping, aim to blend a combination of hardscaping and softscaping elements. By incorporating natural components, your pool will feel more like a true paradise than a concrete water pit.
1. Surround One Side of the Pool With Jungle-Inspired Plants
Getty
By incorporating lush plants around the perimeter of your pool, you’ll create a space that has you questioning if you’re in your backyard or on a tropical vacation. Finding the best varieties to plant will depend on your actual climate, but even pool owners in areas of the country that require hardier plants can get the same aesthetic with ferns, hostas and hibiscus. Some palms can even tolerate sub-zero temperatures.
2. Build a Rock Wall Along a Portion of the Pool
Getty
You can really enhance your pool’s landscaping by adding some elevated boulders around its edge. For the most custom look, rock can be incorporated directly into the design of the pool during construction. But even if you are retrofitting your landscaping to an existing pool, you can tap into this idea with both real or artificial boulders—including some that offer built-in speakers.
3. Add Built-In Planters for a Resort-Like Effect
Getty
Give you softscaping a focal point with eye-catching planters that are built directly into your landscaping. Great for showcasing blooming flowers, shrubs or even trees, built-in planters add an instant wow factor to your pool landscaping.
4. Create a Shaded Lounging Space
Getty
You’ll have it made in the shade with a poolside cabana space. The easiest and most inexpensive option is to add a sail shade and some lounging chairs. Or build a complete open-air pool house for an experience that tops many 5-star resorts.
5. Expand the Pool Decking Space with Xeriscaping
Getty
With pool landscaping, one of the biggest expenses is also one of the most essential expenses: Building or renovating a pool deck using stamped pavers costs an average of $7,000. By adding xeriscaping elements around a more narrow pool deck, you may be able to minimize costs while maximizing the Palm Springs-like vibe.
6. Space Out Concrete Pavers With Grass in Between
Getty
Sink your toes into some lush grass while adding some visual intrigue around your pool by adding a few inches of turf between concrete pavers around your pool. A look that is simultaneously modern and classic, this is a great pool landscaping idea to consider if you are redoing your pool decking.
7. Add a Raised Wooden Deck
Getty
Mixing materials for the pool decking space is a perfect way to add some interesting design elements to your pool landscaping. Adding a slightly elevated floating wood deck next to the pool is a good way to give the illusion of additional space. Add a patio table for the perfect poolside dining space.
8. Build a Waterfall Feature for a Tropical Escape
Getty
Adding a waterfall feature is a guaranteed way to make your pool landscaping feel more glamorous—and the project may not be as expensive as you would assume. On average, homeowners around the country can expect to pay $1,500 for a 12-foot, professionally installed rock waterfall.
9. Plant Flowers with Your Senses in Mind
Getty
Spending some time around the pool can be a complete sensory experience if you add aromatic blooms to the pool landscape design. With a microclimate of its own, you’ll want to do some research before planting new flowers or shrubs around your pool.
However, some relatively safe bets for most climates include lavender and geraniums. Or grow your favorite flowers in pots to help extend the season.
Advertisement
THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.
Using your home's equity is an easy way to fund your new pool!
Get prequalified in minutes by clicking on your state.
Learn More
10. Lounge into the Evening with a Built-In Firepit
Getty
If the pool is the go-to social gathering space for your house, create a more inviting evening hangout with a built-in firepit added to the poolside landscaping.
It costs an average of $300 to $1,400 to have a propane-burning fire pit professionally installed, but can create some priceless entertaining experiences.
11. Mix Up Some Drinks at a Poolside Bar
Getty
If you are building a pool, a swim-up bar can be included in the design. Or, if you are adding to your existing pool landscaping, consider building a freestanding combo bar and grilling space for the best dinner parties. And once you have the bar installed, all you need to find is someone willing to make the drinks.
12. Build Seating into the Hardscaping
Getty
Give people a seat at your next pool party with built-in benches around the pool decking or in the backyard area. An easy addition to any space where you need a retaining wall, the seating can make the whole pool landscaping feel more inviting, especially if you add some outdoor pillows or cushions.
13. Light It Up With Professionally Installed Lighting
Getty
A worthy upgrade to string lights or tiki torches, professionally installed lighting around your pool space will add some functional luxury to the landscaping.
Whether you are building any poolside structures or simply need to add lighting, custom lighting can set your landscaping apart.
14. Go Minimalist for a Modern Aesthetic
Getty
With clean lines, a narrow pool deck and manicured turf, your pool landscaping can shine—without feeling fussy. This keeps the focus on the pool and lounging without requiring too much additional landscaping maintenance.
15. Upgrade the Pool Fencing
Getty
Even though pool fencing is first and foremost a matter of safety, that doesn’t mean it can’t also look great. Consider your overall landscaping style while selecting the best fencing for your pool space so that you can add to the aesthetic rather than distract from it.
Advertisement
THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein.
We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.
Build Your Dream Backyard Retreat
Custom build your pool, spa or hot tub of your dreams! Connect with prescreened top-rated contractors on Angi in your area.
Explore Options
Your Home. Your Decisions. Our Support.
Get expert advice on your home, design tips, how much to pay for pros and hiring experts, delivered to you daily.
{{ newsletterState.emailErrorMsg }}
Thanks & Welcome to the Forbes Home Improvement Community!
{{ newsletterState.emailErrorMsg }}
I agree to receive the Forbes Home newsletter via e-mail. Please see our Privacy Policy for more information and details on how to opt out.
22 In-Ground Pool Designs - Best Swimming Pool Design Ideas for Your Backyard
Mint Images
There’s no better way to beat the heat than a dip in a refreshing swimming pool.
It’s even better when that swimming pool is in your own backyard. Today’s in-ground pools go way beyond the turquoise-lined rectangular shapes that quickly began to populate backyards following WWII. With built-in waterfalls, surrounding gardens, and organic shapes, your pool can be a beautiful element to add to your backyard landscape ideas. Plus, whether your home is a traditional Tudor, a rustic farmhouse, or even a glass-wrapped modern ranch, today’s options in patio and building materials allow your pool to easily complement the architecture and style of your house. Many pool and landscape plans also incorporate different gathering areas with unique dining and seating spots, lush patio plants, and interesting lighting, helping to establish your pool as the center point of all outdoor activity—both for daytime family fun and moodier nighttime gatherings.
While many of these pool designs require a lot of space, a large yard is no longer a make-or-break requirement for a backyard pool.
Thanks to flexibility in shape and size, there are many swimming pool designs and plans that are just right for small yards. And, sure, a backyard swimming pool is an investment, but don’t count it out just for fear of cost. There are lots of swimming pool design ideas for all styles and budgets. (Tip: If you’re still not quite ready to commit to an in-ground pool, you can still get in on the backyard game with a low-commitment stock-tank pool.) Once your new, beautiful pool is installed and the water is flowing, you’ll be anxious to invite over your family and friends for a summer full of festive pools parties. Don’t forget the pool floats!
Brian Bare, Shepard Butler Landscape Associates
1 of 22
Organic Setting
This Vermont pool features minimal pavement and an integrated fire pit, both of which serve to maintain the visual flow of the existing, grassy landscape. Meanwhile, stacked stone slabs inspire a makeshift waterfall.
Stone Pool by Shepard Butler Landscape Associates
Designed by Randy Angell for Pool Environments, Inc.
2 of 22
Flowers & Foliage
Lined by hedges and strategically-placed flowering plants, this pool feels indulgent and secluded. An elevated platform adds depth and dimension.
Designed by Randy Angell for Pool Environments, Inc.
Thomas Flint Landscape Design & Development
3 of 22
Garden Party
The ample entertaining space and lush, flower-filled landscaping surrounding this free-form pool would be heaven for any hostess.
Custom Pool by Thomas Flint Landscape Design & Development
Courtesy of Stout Design-Build, Inc./Porch.com
4 of 22
A Pool With a View
This remarkable outdoor patio turns heads by taking advantage of a breathtaking view. It's three-sided design creates the effect of an infinity pool.
Pacific Palisades by Stout Design-Build, Inc.
Designed by Randy Angell for Pool Environments, Inc.
5 of 22
All the Extras
A diving board, fountain, and, yes, even a small bridge reminiscent of a castle moat make this pool feel positively royal.
Designed by Randy Angell for Pool Environments, Inc.
Thomas Flint Pool Design & Development
6 of 22
Understated Elegance
A swim-up gazebo gives an unexpected twist to this otherwise traditional New Jersey swimming pool.
Ridgewood Pool by Thomas Flint Landscape Design & Development
Courtesy of Miller Design Co./Porch.com
7 of 22
California Dreamin'
Interesting lighting helps this statement backyard pool transform from day to evening.
Atherton Residence 2 by Miller Design Co.
Buff Strickland
8 of 22
Hill Country Ranch
The back porch of this Texas ranch house is home to plenty of poolside entertaining options, including an outdoor living room, bar, and kitchen.
Courtesy of Halifax Homes Inc/Porch.
com
9 of 22
Natural Space
Surrounded by dense, leafy trees, the pool at this Texas home gives off a one-with-nature vibe.
Remodel by Halifax Homes Inc
Courtesy of Schaub+Srote Architects/Porch.com
10 of 22
Stone-and-Timber Pool House
This pool house complements its Missouri home with timber beams similar to those used inside and impressive stone finishes.
Maison de Cabane by Schaub+Srote Architects
Courtesy of Benco Construction/Porch.com
11 of 22
Grassy Surround
The small yard of this charming Long Island home boasts the ideal outdoor space for entertaining friends all summer long.
East Hampton by Benco Construction
Courtesy of Modpools
12 of 22
Repurposed Shipping Container Pool
Who knew a discarded shipping container would make for such an attractive swimming pool? Modpools is the mastermind behind these heated pools that take only minutes to set up.
Courtesy of Fireclay Tile/Porch.com
13 of 22
Tile Accents
Sometimes, all it takes is a single upgrade—like these decorative tiles—to make your existing swimming pool look and feel brand new.
Outdoor Space by Fireclay Tile
Courtesy of Debra J Interiors/Porch.com
14 of 22
Seating For All
A northern Florida home features several different outdoor spaces for entertaining, accented by stone stairs and a plethora of other impressive architectural enhancements.
Major Renovation by Debra J Interiors
Courtesy of Pool Environments, Inc./Porch.com
15 of 22
Light Effects
The designers behind this project achieved a refreshing, modern look for the entire patio simply by adding in-ground pool lighting.
Renovation II by Pool Environments, Inc.
Courtesy of Craig Reynolds Landscape Architecture/Porch.com
16 of 22
Florida Escape
This inviting pool is just a hop, skip, and a jump from the back door of this idyllic warm-weather escape in Key West, Florida.
Holiday Residence by Craig Reynolds Landscape Architecture
Courtesy of Phil Kean Design Group/Porch.com
17 of 22
By the Water
This lake-front patio gives guests the best seat in the house.
DeLand by Phil Kean Design Group
Courtesy of Phil Kean Designs/Porch.com
18 of 22
Outdoor Oasis
A spacious pool is the jewel of this Florida home's backyard.
Cherokee by Phil Kean Design Group
Courtesy of Liquid Designs/Porch.
com
19 of 22
Modern Retreat
This Charlotte family branched out from a cookie-cutter neighborhood with a more customized renovation, complete with a modern pool to match.
Form Haus by Liquid Design
Courtesy of Denise Foley Design Inc./Porch.com
20 of 22
California Classic
This California home's uniquely shaped pool is accented with stunning, finely-manicured gardens.
LA Estate by Denise Foley Design Inc.
Courtesy of Rue Group, Inc/Porch.com
21 of 22
Tiered Setting
This home's traditional, rustic design is accented by a stately backyard pool.
Country Estate by Rue Group, Inc.
Courtesy of Craig Reynolds Landscape Architecture/Porch.com
22 of 22
Lush Garden Setting
Lush tropical foliage creates a backyard paradise for this Key West, Florida retreat.
Truman Annex by Craig Reynolds Landscape Architecture
Landscape design around the pool: photo ideas for arranging a recreation area with a pool in the garden and in the country house
Editorial: completion of construction. To spend time near the pool was pleasant, safe and comfortable, you need to pay attention to the landscape design of the surrounding area.
House + House Architects
Swimming pool cover
Whether you are planning to frolic in the water with your children, take a steady swim or engage in sports training, the pleasure of swimming can be spoiled by a slippery cold surface (tiles, for example) waiting for a swimmer at the exit of the 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 complement the composition around the pool decoratively, 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 plates (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 9001 device Most suitable 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) parquet made of wood-polymer composite (WPC). 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 spectacular, 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 varnish. 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 look 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 as leaves and plant debris clog the water and 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 by 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 structure 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 cabin 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 in the patio where hot water can be supplied. 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. Do not forget that nature and proximity to it play an important role in the design of this corner.
Platinum Poolcare
Get your sled ready in the summer
If you plan to use your pool during the cold season, it's time to think about pool heating systems in the summer so you can install them in the summer. Starting construction in the winter will be much more difficult.
Artel "Danila, Makar and Brothers"
YOUR TURN…
How do you improve the pool area on your own plot? Is there heating? What about outdoor showers? What unexpected discoveries did you make for yourself during the operation of the outdoor pool - share in the comments below the article!
New in garden design - landscaped pools or ponds.
Landscape pools - a novelty in garden design. It would seem that can still be invented new for the device of the reservoir on the site. But it is not for nothing that everything ingenious is said simply. Landscape pools - in the West they are called swimming pools or swimming pools - a novelty in the landscape design market. The terms landscaped pool - landscaped pool and swimming pools - a swimming pool, as well as the technology for designing such devices, came to us from Europe.
What is so special about landscaped pool and what does it look like more – an ordinary pond, stream, waterfall or a swimming pool. The fact of the matter is that landscape designers managed to combine all this in one finished compact object, without spoiling the very idea of wild outdoor recreation and cultural leisure in an elite boarding house.
I won’t say much, see for yourself the most successful, in my opinion, landscape projects , suitable for relatively small plots of land.
I would just like to add that the peculiarity of this type of reservoirs (landscape pools) is that there are several zones in the swimming pool: namely, a swimming, decorative and regeneration zone. The project of a landscape pool is a combination in one whole of such seemingly incompatible concepts as a swimming pool, an ornamental pond, a stream and a waterfall.
How the infinity pool works.
The swimming area of the landscape pool , like the usual one, has a depth of 150 cm, and in this case the correct geometric shape and practically does not differ from the classic swimming pool. The swimming pool, like a regular pool, is equipped with bridges, ladders and steps for descending into the water. On its shore, a solarium and a recreation area are necessarily arranged.
The so-called regeneration zone is 60 to 80 cm deep and looks like a natural pond. It houses decorative aquatic plants, fountains, lights and other decorative elements.
The most important feature of the landscape pool and the main know-how was the lack of water purification equipment in the swimming area. This swimming pond uses special bio-additives and bacteria taken from nature itself to maintain a healthy biological balance of water .
Benefits of landscaped pools.
1. The ability to create an unusual design in a small area, change it beyond recognition and at the same time decorate the landscape of a summer cottage or garden plot.
2. Use of the reservoir for both creation of a water entertainment corner and decoration of the site in the evening and at night.
3. Harmonious combination of ornamental pond and swimming pool. You save space on the site without compromising its functionality and aesthetic perception.
4. Landscape pool construction costs less than swimming pool construction costs due to less excavation and the possibility of using pond liner instead of concrete.
5. Easy care – after all, the coastal zone is only 60-80 cm deep, it is easy to get around in it, caring for plants and equipment.
6. Complete absence of pumps in the swimming area of the reservoir, filters of everything that creates a danger in an ordinary pool.
7.
