In-Ground Pool Landscaping Ideas
Discover the best pool landscaping ideas to elevate your southern Ontario property. Whether you have an in-ground pool or an above-ground gem, we’ve got you covered. Learn how to turn your pool area into a stunning retreat.
Focal Points for All Pools: Use your pool’s lines to guide attention. Think a cozy fire feature, a soothing water element, a stylish wood structure, or a vibrant garden spot. We’ll show you how these touches can make your poolside a haven with a unique vibe. Let’s dive in!
Integrated hardscaping – a solid choice
When it comes to in-ground pool landscaping, hardscaping plays a crucial role in both functionality and aesthetics. Here are some ideas to consider:
Surround the pool with landscaping stone patio
Surround your pool with a beautifully crafted stone patio. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a sturdy foundation. A stone patio not only complements your pool’s design but also provides a practical, slip-resistant surface.
Accentuate the edge of the pool with patio designs
Whether you have a rectangular pool or irregular shaped pool, use variations in stone texture or colour to define the edge of the pool. Consider materials that complement your pool’s aesthetics, whether it’s a minimalist concrete border or intricate tiles.
Step up your design with steps, stairs, and transitions
Use your backyard patio hardscaping to define different areas that are connected with stone steps, stairs or transition elements. Step down from the outdoor kitchen to the pool area, or step up and into a separate hot tub.
When creating steps, consider using different coloured stone for the steps compared to the risers. Therefore making the steps contrast and easier to see.
Define the space with stone edges and borders
Create distinct boundaries that add structure and elegance to your landscape. Transition seamlessly between areas, guiding the eye with well-defined edges for an outdoor space that’s both functional and visually appealing. Edging and borders seamlessly integrate gardens and lawns, creating a visual delineation.
Add an outdoor kitchen
When you’re enjoying your pool on the warm days of summer, you will be glad that you installed an outdoor kitchen to prepare your meals, keep the drinks cool, and bring the family together. A thoughtful backyard design will blend functionality, luxury and convenience. Embrace the open-air culinary experience and be proud to host friends and family to a social atmosphere that complements the beauty of your pool landscape.
Sitting areas and shaded areas
A backyard pool day rarely ends after one dip. Design your pool oasis with plenty of sitting and lounging areas. Also consider how the sun will travel across your backyard during the summer months. Everyone wants a summer tan, however you won’t want to be in the sun all the time, so consider adding shaded areas to sit under so that you can enjoy your backyard landscape even on the hottest days.
Design comfortable sitting areas around your pool to create spaces for relaxation and socializing. Choose quality outdoor furniture that complements the overall theme of your landscaping.
Contrast blue waters with green gardens
Choose landscaping elements that add colour and depth to your overall backyard style. Contrast the blue pool with strategically chosen plants of vibrant colours. Gardens and lush vegetation bring life into the landscape details.
Add greenery with built in planters
A great way to integrate plants throughout your patio is through built-in planters. These planters can be an extension of the hardscaping by using stone pots and planters. Or you can choose other materials such as wood or corten steel to accentuate the planter details. In addition, planters can help define walkways, entrances, or corners.
Add warmth with the natural beauty of wood
Wood features, such as decking, fencing and furniture, add warmth and natural beauty to your pool area. Consider using weather-resistant wood to ensure longevity and easy maintenance. Wood structures such as pergolas, cabanas, awnings create stunning visual elements that can define sitting areas and provide shade during your warm summer pool days.
Add even more warmth with a fire feature
Extend the usability of your pool area into the evening by incorporating fire features. Fire pits or outdoor fireplaces provide warmth and create a cozy atmosphere for nighttime gatherings. Fire features create a focal point to gather around for socializing and connecting.
Drown out your worries with a water features
Introduce water features to elevate the sensory experience of your pool. Options like waterfalls or fountains not only look visually appealing but also contribute to a soothing ambiance.
Stay organized with storage sheds and other structures
Having a pool will also come with all of the pool accessories, especially if you have children or grand children. Incorporate storage solutions or sheds into your landscaping design. This ensures that pool equipment and accessories are neatly tucked away, maintaining the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space.
Consider a small structure or building to act as a changing room for guests.
Use natural armor stone retaining walls
Retaining walls can be used strategically to add levels to your pool landscaping. These elements not only serve a functional purpose but also add texture and visual interest. Armor stone retaining walls add natural rugged walls which will provide stability and erosion control to your landscaping.
Incorporate gates and fencing into the design
Ensure safety and privacy by incorporating gates and fencing into your pool landscaping design. This not only adds a layer of security but also contributes to the overall aesthetics of the space. Gates and fencing is one of the non-mandatory pool landscaping ideas. Different municipalities in Ontario may have specific rules regarding pool fencing. In general, pools in Ontario require a pool enclosure that completely surrounds the pool area. In some cases, a fence around the whole backyard will suffice. In other cases, you might need a fence directly around the pool area.
Above ground pool landscaping ideas
Above ground pools have different landscaping options compared to in ground pool landscaping. Here are several above ground pool landscaping ideas.
Surround the pool with garden beds
Elevate the appearance of your above-ground pool by surrounding it with mulch garden beds. Choose vibrant plants that thrive in your local climate to add color and freshness to the pool area.
Access the pool with a wood deck
Create a seamless transition from your above-ground pool with a well-designed deck. This not only provides easy access but also adds a stylish element to the entire setup.
Consider plants that will grow to the height of the pool
Choose tall plants that match the height of your above-ground pool to create a cohesive and visually appealing look. This helps integrate the pool seamlessly into your landscaping.
Go low maintenance with shrubs
Integrate shrubs into the design to add greenery and privacy to the above-ground pool area. Choose varieties that are low-maintenance and well-suited for the specific conditions of your outdoor space.
Enhance your Ontario property with these pool landscaping ideas, creating a visually appealing and functional outdoor oasis. Whether you have an in-ground pool or an above-ground one, thoughtful landscaping adds value and beauty to your home. For more tips and inspiration, visit our inspiration gallery.
