Backyard pools are a great addition to any outdoor entertaining space especially if you create one of these awesome lagoon-style designs that appears to be an (almost) naturally occurring water feature. Our company actually specializes in these types of small pools, and it is easier and less expensive to create a look like this than you may think. I, personally, think that the key to making these designs look realistic is paying attention to scale and also adding in a great stone pool deck to give that organic feel. This is also a fantastic design for anybody on a budget, because they actually look best (and most realistic) when installed as small swimming pools. If you are ready to take on one of these projects, the first thing you need to do is take a look at the landscape of your backyard to determine where it could be conceivable that there would be a natural body of water or stream running throughout the property. More than likely, that is the best place to install one of these small pools. Next look at the foliage and shade trees that surround that area to see if it makes sense to add a water feature there. Beyond that, have fun with style and color schemes to make it look the most natural for your space.

This year has brought us so many awesome new trends in outdoor design, especially with respect to small inground pools and hot tubs. In years past, when we think of a backyard pool we usually picture one of those large rectangle styles with lap lanes for exercise or smaller lagoon designs that look like something out of a beach-side resort. In 2019 the plunge pool has been rapidly gaining in popularity, in part due to their purported health benefits. If you don't already know, these are small pools that are attached or placed right next to an outdoor spa. They are typically quite deep and filled with cold water, the idea being that you soak in the hot tub then "plunge" into the neighboring pool for refreshment. Supposedly this can boost your immune system, increase circulation and burn calories. Designers love them because they can be installed in nearly any size backyard, and homeowners enjoy them because of their very minimal maintenance requirement.

Small backyard pools can still pack a huge style punch if you incorporate them into your landscaping and outdoor entertaining areas in the right way. This lovely colonial brick home had a fairly small backyard, but there was a space tucked into the far corner that was the perfect size for a miniature lagoon-style pool. We didn't want this feature to seem like an afterthought, so we were careful to build the surrounding concrete deck and adjoining sitting area and pool in a way that made it seem "one" with the landscape. I prefer inground pool designs that look like a natural occurring pond, so we chose a deep blue-green liner that is a bit less fake than most you see today. We also utilized a curving design that bumps up to several mature oak trees to give the illusion that the pool had always been there. In addition, I find it important to add decorative lighting to small pools to prevent them from looking like a large rain puddle or something similar. We added dimmable light fixtures within the pool and in the surrounding area that we can adjust depending on the ambience we want for the evening.

Inground pools are, in my opinion, one of the best additions a home can have. However, they are not always the easiest thing to incorporate, especially if youre short on space. Thats why you should never underestimate the power of small pool designs. Good small pool designs can transform a dull outdoor area into an attractive oasis. In this home, the pool fits seemingly perfectly into a small space. The bright blue of the pool complements the neutral colours of the house and patio. It is also placed well, in the centre of the outdoor area, so it doesnt hog the space or seem overbearing. This just proves that you really dont need a huge space to have a beautiful pool. Small pools are a great option for those with less space, who still want a fun and aesthetic outdoor area.

Many people have the joy of adding extra amenities to their homes, but do not factor in the most common troubles that arise. Take, for example, the most common amenity: the pool. The first mistake comes with the inground pool cost, and not setting aside enough of a budget that will cover the cost of the labor. The second mistake lies with swimming pool design. It is a matter of look and style in regards to ones yard dimensions and not personal preference. The third mistake is pool size. Many people automatically believe that large pools are always better than small pools and do not properly measure their yard space to get the right size pool to fit. Even if one believes they have the knowledge, consultation from professionals is always best in order to fully explore all options.

One of my favorite ways to accent pools for small yards is to add a decorative water feature like an imbedded fountain or waterfall. These cool elements add a bit of flare to any style yard and provide a great accent to all landscaping. Even better, if you can only fit a small pool in your backyard, a feature like this will really elevate the style and make it look luxurious despite the more miniature size. The easiest water feature to install in your average backyard is the pool waterfall because you already have your basin (the pool) and it is not that challenging to run piping alongside it if you install both at the same time. Whether you are working with large or small pools, the sound of trickling water that these awesome features create is exceptionally relaxing and can help to create a lovely ambiance in your backyard. This fun desert oasis is one of my favorite examples of how to pair water features like this alongside small pools to make an awesome and versatile outdoor entertaining area.