More and more homeowners are adding backyard pools to their homes. It’s a source of endless entertainment and good memories, so it’s easy to see why so many people want a pool.
But if you don’t have a large space to work with it can be hard to imagine how you’d fit a pool at all. Luckily, there are so many good small backyard pool ideas. You can get the pool you want with added features and still have room for a lawn and landscaping!
Some of the most creative and innovative backyard pools come from small backyards. We’ve compiled a list of the top five ideas for an awesome pool in a smaller backyard.
1. Tanning Ledge or Beach Entry
When you’re creating a backyard pool you want to think of all the scenarios where it will be used, making sure there’s something for everyone. If you have a smaller yard, you have to get more creative to fit in all of those options.
A great way to add some options and dimension to your pool is to have a variety of depths, even beyond a shallow and a deep end.
Pools with zero-depth, beach entries are a great way to make sure there is a spot in the pool for everyone. The shallower area can be used for children or as a tanning ledge for adults who don’t want to fully submerge but also want to be in the water. These options also add a lot of interest to the look of the pool.
Having a shallower entrance into the pool also gives you options for furniture being a part of the pool as well. Lounge chairs can be added to the area for a built-in patio.
2. High-Impact Details
As you start making decisions for your pool installation, you might be surprised at just how many options you have to choose from and how customized you can make the space.
The details of a pool are what make it special and help it to stand-out. This is especially true when you’re working in a smaller backyard.
A backyard pool is generally the focal point of the area, regardless of how big the yard is. So when there’s not room for much else, you have to make sure it’s the show-stopper you want it to be. Checking out your builder’s galleries for ideas is a smart way to get the inspiration you need.
You can collect ideas for color schemes, tile choices, water features, fire features, and overall layouts. Then you can take those ideas and come up with a unique design that does your small space justice.
3. Organic Shapes
Gone are the days when pools only come in long rectangles. When you build a pool you don’t even have to stick with a designated shape anymore. Freeform, organic shapes are a popular option to make a new pool look more customized and unique.
When you’re planning your pool you have to figure out how to best use the space available to fit in all the extras you want.
This space planning is especially important when you have a smaller yard. The bigger the pool isn’t always the better. Instead, using a unique shape can make your pool more interesting without using all the available real estate.
Adding curves and bends into the outline of your pool gives you the opportunity to have grass or a deck as well.
It also breaks up the pool, giving it designated zones for different activities if you’d like. Overall, they’re just more appealing to look at than a basic rectangle with a diving board at the end.
4. Fire and Lighting
If you’re looking to add a little pizzaz to your backyard pool, a great option is a fire feature or extra, ambient lighting.
Fire features are generally incorporated along the edge of the pools. They can either be a small or big fire pit and can be customized to fit any design. The unexpected nature of fire in a pool makes them a huge focal point and draws a lot of interest. This is especially true for night swimming by firelight.
Ambient lighting can have a similar effect, with a simpler application and pool installation process.
When the new pool is being installed you can add as many lights as you want in all different areas of the pool. It’s fun to have lights around the edges or highlighting a special feature of the pool. They add interest and can create that entertaining atmosphere you’re looking for.
The best thing about adding in these additional features is that they take your pool to the next level without needing any additional space. Perfect for a smaller backyard.
5. Safety Features
As much fun as pools are, they can also be quite dangerous. Safety features around any pool are absolutely essential but that’s even more true for a pool in a small backyard.
When a pool is taking up the majority of the space it makes sense that there is a larger potential for accidents.
A fence or cover should be a critical part of any pool design meetings you have. It’s easier to make sure everything is safe and secure when those features are incorporated into the design and the building process. There’s no afterthought and hurried solutions thrown together.
The most important part of any safety feature is that it can effectively keep out anyone who isn’t supposed to be in the pool for whatever reason. Luckily, there are a ton of options that can fit all needs and design preferences.
Best Small Backyard Pool Ideas
Getting a pool in your backyard is an exciting addition to any home. It’s also an investment, both in money and land. So it’s important to get the most out of your project to ensure you really love it for years to come.
These great small backyard pool ideas are the perfect jumping-off point for you to start designing your new pool!
If you’re interested in design consultation and seeing what’s possible in your backyard, contact us today!
