Creating a stylish and functional pool area is one of the best ways to elevate your outdoor space and enhance your home’s overall appeal.
Whether you are looking for affordable decor solutions or luxurious poolside furniture ideas, transforming your pool area can turn it into a relaxing oasis.
A recent National Association of Home Builders study found that 57% of homeowners prioritise outdoor space upgrades, including pool areas when planning home improvements.
In this post, we’ll explore ten pool area styling ideas that combine aesthetics and practicality, ensuring your outdoor space is inviting and easy to maintain.
From poolside furniture and affordable decor tips to landscaping and lighting ideas, these tips will help you create a modern, stylish pool area that suits your budget.
Let’s dive in and discover how to make your poolside the ultimate summer retreat.
When styling your pool area, the furniture you choose plays a critical role in aesthetics and comfort.
The right poolside furniture can transform your outdoor space into a relaxing retreat, but it's essential to select stylish and durable pieces.
Start by choosing furniture made from materials that can withstand the elements, such as aluminium, teak, and synthetic wicker. These materials are known for their durability and resistance to moisture, UV rays, and temperature changes, ensuring that your furniture will last for years.
For instance, teak is a popular choice because it’s naturally resistant to water and doesn’t warp or crack under extreme weather conditions.
Maximise your space with multipurpose furniture like storage loungers or tables with built-in coolers. Modular seating is another great option, as it allows you to rearrange pieces to fit the layout of your pool area, whether you're hosting guests or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon by the pool.
When selecting cushions and upholstery, choose outdoor fabrics resistant to UV rays, mould, and mildew. These fabrics maintain their colour and texture over time and add a layer of comfort and style to your seating arrangements.
You can mix and match styles to create a unique, curated look. Pair modern loungers with rustic wooden tables or combine sleek metal chairs with plush, colourful cushions. This will add personality to your pool area and ensure it aligns with your overall outdoor decor theme.
Styling your pool area doesn’t have to break the bank. You can elevate your outdoor space with creative thinking and smart decor choices while sticking to a budget. From small accessories to DIY touches, these budget-friendly ideas will help you achieve a stylish and inviting pool area without overspending.
Decorative touches like outdoor cushions, lanterns, and planters can instantly brighten your pool area. Choose colourful throw pillows or durable outdoor rugs that add style and help define seating areas. Lanterns, string lights, and candles provide a warm, welcoming ambience for evening gatherings without costing a fortune.
Look for sales or seasonal discounts at local stores or online marketplaces for the best deals.
Get creative by repurposing old furniture or upcycling materials you already have. For example, you can transform wooden pallets into outdoor coffee tables or use weather-resistant paint to give old metal chairs a fresh, modern look. DIY decor projects like these add a personal touch to your space while keeping costs low.
This approach saves money and reduces waste, contributing to more sustainable design practices.
Plants are an affordable way to add life and vibrancy to your pool area. Opt for potted plants that can be easily rearranged or changed with the seasons. Low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants like succulents, ornamental grasses, and tropical palms are perfect for poolside decor.
You can also create a small garden with inexpensive planters to add a pop of colour and texture. Consider strategically placing large potted plants around the pool to enhance privacy and create natural divisions.
Invest in an affordable outdoor rug to help define different areas of your pool space. Whether creating a lounging zone or setting up a dining area, outdoor rugs bring warmth and cohesion to the layout.
Look for rugs made from durable, weather-resistant materials like polypropylene, which can handle moisture and high foot traffic without fading.
Landscaping can transform your pool area into a serene oasis, adding natural beauty and enhancing the overall atmosphere. With strategic planting and design, you can create a space that feels like a tropical resort or a minimalist retreat, depending on your style.
Here are some ideas for incorporating landscaping that complements your pool area.
Poolside landscaping should be practical and easy to maintain. Drought-tolerant plants like succulents, ornamental grasses, and palms are ideal for pool areas, as they require less water and can withstand the sun and heat.
These plants are hardy and add a lush, tropical feel that enhances the pool’s aesthetic. To add variety, mix different plant heights and textures for visual interest.
Use landscaping to create natural divisions around your pool area. Layer taller plants like bamboo or palms at the back for privacy while placing smaller shrubs or ground cover plants near the pool edge.
This layering technique creates depth and makes the space feel more expansive. Incorporate decorative stones or mulch to define different zones, such as lounging areas or garden paths, while keeping the space clean and polished.
Hardscaping elements like stone walkways, decorative boulders, or retaining walls can give your pool area a modern, streamlined look. Consider using natural stone or pavers to create a smooth transition from the pool to surrounding areas, such as patios or seating spaces.
Not only do these features add style, but they also help with drainage and reduce maintenance needs around the pool.
Potted plants are a great solution if you’re looking for flexibility in your landscaping design. Depending on the season or your preferences, they can be moved or replaced easily. Large potted palms or flowering plants near the pool can create focal points, while small planters around seating areas add a pop of colour.
Opt for lightweight, weather-resistant pots that are easy to move and maintain.
Adding shade to your pool area is not just about function—it's also a key style element. The right shade solution can enhance the overall aesthetic while keeping your space cool and comfortable.
Whether you're looking for a permanent structure or a flexible, budget-friendly option, here are some stylish shade ideas that blend design and practicality.
Consider installing a pergola for a more permanent and elegant option. Pergolas offer structured shade without fully enclosing the area, allowing light to filter through while providing sun protection.
For a lush, green canopy effect, climbing plants like ivy or wisteria can enhance the look. Additionally, adding outdoor curtains to a pergola allows you to create more or less shade as needed, adding a resort-like feel to your pool area.
Outdoor umbrellas are one of the most versatile and cost-effective options for adding shade to a pool area. Whether you prefer cantilever umbrellas that can be easily adjusted or classic centre-pole designs, umbrellas provide moveable, flexible shade that suits any layout.
You can choose colours and fabrics that match your poolside decor to create a cohesive look.
Plus, their portability makes them perfect for rearranging as the sun shifts throughout the day.
For a contemporary design, consider sail shades. These large, triangular or square fabric pieces are suspended above the pool area, providing ample shade while creating a modern, artistic vibe.
Sail shades come in various colours and can be positioned at different angles to create dynamic shadows. They are durable, weather-resistant, and relatively easy to install, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking a balance between style and functionality.
Retractable awnings offer a sleek solution for those wanting shade and sunlight options. These motorised or manual systems allow you to extend shade over your pool area when needed and retract it when you want to enjoy the sun.
Retractable awnings are ideal for patios or pool decks where flexibility is key. They offer protection from the sun while maintaining the space's aesthetic appeal.
The proper lighting can transform your pool area from a daytime retreat to a magical evening escape. Whether you're hosting nighttime gatherings or simply enjoying a quiet evening swim, strategic lighting enhances your outdoor space's safety and ambience.
Here are some stylish and practical lighting tips for your pool area.
String lights are one of the easiest and most popular ways to add warmth and charm to a pool area. They can be draped along fences, pergolas, or trees, casting a soft, ambient glow that feels welcoming and cozy.
Opt for solar-powered string lights to save energy costs and minimise installation hassle. String lights create a relaxed, festive vibe for evening gatherings or quiet poolside moments.
Add a touch of drama to your pool area with underwater LED lights. These lights can be installed in the pool to illuminate the water from within, creating a visually stunning effect that highlights the pool’s design and makes nighttime swimming safer.
Choose from various colours to change the mood depending on the occasion—soft blues for a tranquil vibe or vibrant colours for a party atmosphere. LED lighting is energy-efficient and long-lasting, making it a practical choice for homeowners looking to enhance their pool area’s appeal.
Path lighting is essential for both safety and aesthetics, especially in areas with steps, walkways, or uneven surfaces. Low-voltage or solar-powered path lights can be installed along the pool's perimeter, around seating areas, or leading up to the pool from the house.
Not only do these lights prevent tripping hazards, but they also create a defined, stylish look that subtly enhances the overall design of your pool area.
Consider using lanterns or outdoor candles to light up specific poolside areas for a more intimate, romantic feel. Lanterns can be hung from trees or placed on tables to provide soft lighting without overpowering the space.
Flameless candles are a safe and beautiful option, especially for households with children or pets. Grouping multiple candles can create a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for evening relaxation by the pool.
A private and secluded pool area lets you fully relax and enjoy your outdoor space without worrying about prying your eyes.
Fortunately, creating privacy doesn’t mean compromising on style. You can enhance your pool area's aesthetics and functionality with the correct elements.
Here are some elegant privacy solutions that blend seamlessly with any design.
Tall plants and greenery are among the most attractive ways to create privacy around your pool. Consider planting fast-growing options like bamboo, tall grasses, or evergreen shrubs, which can act as natural barriers.
These plants provide seclusion and add a lush, tropical feel to the space.
For a more structured look, hedges or boxwood plants can be shaped to create defined borders while maintaining a modern and manicured appearance.
Installing a decorative fence is another popular choice for enhancing privacy. Depending on your design preferences, you can opt for slatted wood fencing, which offers a clean, contemporary look, or wrought iron with plants woven through for a more traditional feel.
Fences provide an effective barrier while adding structure and style to your pool area. You can combine fencing with greenery to soften the look and blend it into the landscape for added aesthetics.
For a more flexible and luxurious privacy option, consider outdoor curtains. These can be hung from pergolas or gazebos and quickly drawn when you want more seclusion.
Outdoor curtains provide privacy and a touch of elegance to the space, making your pool area feel like a high-end resort.
Choose weather-resistant fabrics in neutral tones for a timeless, sophisticated look, or choose colourful patterns to add a vibrant touch.
Lattice screens are a stylish way to create a semi-private barrier without completely blocking the view. Made from materials like wood or vinyl, they can be used as standalone structures or as accents along existing fences.
You can also enhance the look by training climbing plants like ivy or jasmine to grow along the screen, creating a natural living wall that offers privacy and beauty.
Choosing a suitable colour scheme for your pool area is crucial for setting the mood and creating a cohesive, visually appealing space. The colours you select for your poolside decor, furniture, and accessories can significantly influence the overall ambience—whether for a calm, serene atmosphere or a vibrant, energetic vibe.
Here are some of the best colour schemes for a relaxing and inviting pool area.
One of the most popular colour schemes for pool areas is a coastal-inspired palette of blues and whites. This timeless combination evokes a calm, beach-like atmosphere, perfect for creating a serene retreat by the pool.
Incorporate light blue, aqua, and navy shades in your furniture and accessories, complemented by crisp white accents in umbrellas, cushions, or outdoor rugs. This colour scheme works particularly well if your pool area has a lot of natural light, as the whites and blues will reflect the sunlight and enhance the overall brightness of the space.
Opt for shades like terracotta, beige, and olive green for a more earthy, natural look. These colours blend seamlessly with nature and give your pool area a relaxed, organic feel.
Earthy tones work exceptionally well with wood, stone, and greenery, so if your pool area incorporates natural materials like timber decking or stone pavers, this colour palette will beautifully complement those elements.
Add some large terracotta planters or natural woven furniture to enhance the look to bring the earthy tones to life.
If you want your pool area to feel lively and vibrant, use a tropical-inspired colour scheme with bright hues like coral, turquoise, and lime green. These bold colours will make your pool area pop and create a fun, playful atmosphere—perfect for entertaining or summer parties.
Tropical brights work well in smaller doses, so consider using them for accent pieces like cushions, towels, or poolside tables. Pair these colours with neutral furniture or natural elements like bamboo to balance the vibrancy.
For a sleek, modern look, opt for a monochromatic neutral palette. Shades like charcoal, grey, and off-white create a minimalist, sophisticated feel that’s perfect for contemporary homes. This colour scheme pairs well with metal or concrete materials, giving your pool area a stylish industrial edge.
Mix textures by adding soft cushions, outdoor rugs, or wooden accents to keep the space from feeling too stark.
In fact, according to Houzz’s 2023 Landscaping Trends Report, 45% of homeowners updating their outdoor spaces chose neutral or earthy tones for their pool areas, reflecting the growing preference for organic, relaxing environments.
Designing a child-friendly pool area doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. By incorporating safety features that seamlessly blend into the overall aesthetic, you can create a secure space for young ones and visually appealing for adults.
Here are some practical and stylish ways to ensure your pool area is safe for children without compromising on design.
A pool fence is one of the most effective ways to keep children safe around the pool, and it can also enhance the design of your space. Look for modern fencing options like frameless glass or slatted wood, which provide visibility while maintaining a sleek, contemporary look.
Glass fences, in particular, offer a sophisticated feel without obstructing the view of the pool area.
You can also add greenery, such as hedges or climbing plants, to soften the fencing and blend it into the landscape.
Using non-slip surfaces around the pool is essential to prevent accidents, especially in a child-friendly area. Materials like textured stone, rubber, or composite decking are ideal for reducing slips and falls while still looking stylish.
These surfaces come in various colours and textures so that you can match them to your overall pool design. Non-slip surfaces are functional and add a modern, clean look to your poolside.
Opt for furniture with rounded edges to minimise the risk of injury. Soft-edge outdoor tables, chairs, and loungers are safer for children and add a contemporary, minimalist touch to your pool area.
Look for materials like rattan or weather-resistant plastic, which are durable and can handle the wear and tear of an active family.
To enhance comfort and safety, consider adding padded outdoor cushions or floor mats in areas where kids are likely to play.
To make the pool area more engaging and safe for children, consider creating a shallow splash zone or dedicated play area within the pool design. This can be done by installing a shallow ledge or area where kids can safely enjoy the water without venturing into deeper sections.
These features are functional and add visual interest to your pool’s overall design. Shallow ledges can be styled with in-water lounge chairs or water features, giving the area a resort-like feel.
Adding outdoor rugs and textiles is a simple yet effective way to introduce comfort, style, and warmth to your pool area. These elements help define spaces, soften hard surfaces, and tie the overall design together, creating an inviting atmosphere for lounging and entertaining.
Here’s how to choose the suitable outdoor textiles for your poolside:
When selecting outdoor rugs and textiles, it is vital to choose weather-resistant materials that can handle exposure to sun, water, and general wear. Look for fabrics like polypropylene or solution-dyed acrylic, which are both UV—and mildew-resistant, ensuring they last through the seasons.
These materials retain colour and texture despite outdoor conditions, making them perfect for poolside use.
Outdoor rugs are perfect for defining seating or dining areas around your pool. They help create a cozy, indoor-like feel while breaking up large open spaces. Whether you have a small lounging nook or a large patio, an outdoor rug can provide a comfortable, soft surface underfoot while adding a layer of visual interest.
Choose rugs with bold patterns or vibrant colours to complement your pool area’s overall design.
To bring your poolside space to life, coordinate your outdoor rug with cushions and throws. These textiles add softness and a touch of luxury, making your outdoor seating areas more comfortable and stylish.
Opt for textiles that match the colour scheme of your outdoor furniture and decor—whether you’re going for a bright, tropical look or a calm, neutral palette.
Choose textiles that are easy to clean and maintain. Outdoor rugs and cushions should be easy to hose down or wipe clean after exposure to dirt, pool water, or outdoor elements. Many outdoor textiles are designed to dry quickly, which helps prevent mould and mildew buildup, ensuring your poolside stays fresh and clean.
Enhancing your pool area with the right accessories can elevate the functionality and overall aesthetic, especially during summer. From practical items that make poolside lounging more comfortable to decorative touches that bring style and personality, the right accessories are essential for creating the perfect summer oasis.
Here are some must-have poolside accessories to consider for a stylish outdoor space.
Investing in comfortable outdoor seating is vital to creating a relaxing poolside environment. Opt for stylish loungers, daybeds, or modular seating that allows flexibility in arrangement and comfort. Choose weather-resistant materials, such as aluminum, wicker, or treated wood, and complement the design with plush, water-resistant cushions.
Outdoor bean bags are also popular for creating a casual, laid-back vibe.
Nothing says summer relaxation like floating pool loungers. These chairs or recliners are perfect for spending time in the pool while soaking up the sun. Look for ergonomically designed float loungers with built-in cup holders for added convenience.
Choose designs that match your pool area’s aesthetic—whether you prefer a sleek, minimalist style or something more colorful and fun.
To enhance the poolside experience, consider adding poolside drink holders or small, stylish tables where guests can place drinks, snacks, or personal items. These accessories are functional and decorative, from floating drink holders to sleek poolside tables made of weather-resistant materials.
Select pieces that match your outdoor furniture and fit seamlessly into the overall design.
Upgrade the look of your pool area by incorporating decorative towels and poolside throws. Choose towels with bold patterns or vibrant colours that add personality to the space. Stylish throws can also be draped over seating areas for added texture and warmth, especially on cooler summer evenings.
These accessories not only serve a practical purpose but also enhance the overall aesthetic of your pool area.
The right storage solutions by the pool can help keep your outdoor space organised and clutter-free. Consider outdoor storage benches, deck boxes, or cabinets for towels, pool toys, and other accessories when not in use.
Choose storage units that complement the overall design—wooden benches for a natural look or sleek metal cabinets for a modern, minimalist style.
Styling your pool area is an opportunity to transform it into a personal oasis that blends comfort, functionality, and style.
Whether you're looking for elegant furniture or budget-friendly decor, there are plenty of ways to elevate your outdoor space.
From choosing durable, weather-resistant seating and incorporating modern lighting solutions to creating privacy with lush greenery and adding must-have poolside accessories, your pool area can become a perfect place for relaxation and entertainment.
Focusing on cohesive design elements, practical solutions, and a touch of creativity can help you create a stylish and inviting pool area that reflects your personality and meets your needs.
Remember, minor updates—like a new colour scheme, updated furniture, or a few stylish accessories—can make a significant impact.
Ready to bring your pool area to life? Explore our poolside furniture, decor, and accessories collection to create the perfect summer retreat.
Click here to shop for everything you need to enhance your outdoor space and make the most of your poolside this season!
A1: The best materials for poolside furniture are weather-resistant options such as aluminium, teak, synthetic wicker, and treated wood. These materials are durable and resistant to moisture, UV rays, and temperature changes, making them ideal for outdoor spaces. Additionally, choosing cushions with UV-resistant fabrics ensures longevity and comfort.
A2: You can create privacy by incorporating tall plants, like bamboo or hedges, or by installing decorative fences, such as frameless glass or slatted wood. Lattice screens with climbing plants and outdoor curtains are also stylish, flexible solutions that offer seclusion while enhancing the overall design.
A3: Affordable styling options include adding outdoor cushions, planters, and string lights to create an inviting atmosphere. Repurposing furniture or upcycling materials can save money while adding a personal touch. Potted plants and DIY decor projects can also transform the space without breaking the bank.
A4: The colour scheme should reflect the mood you want to create. Coastal blues and whites offer a serene, beachy vibe, while earthy tones provide a natural, relaxing feel. For a more vibrant atmosphere, consider tropical brights like coral and turquoise. Neutral monochromatic schemes work well for modern, minimalist designs.
A5: Use string lights draped along fences or pergolas for a cozy ambience. Underwater LED lights dramatically affect the pool, while path lights provide safety and style around walkways. Lanterns and outdoor candles create a romantic touch, especially for evening gatherings.
A6: To create a child-friendly pool area, install pool fencing for safety, use non-slip surfaces around the pool, and opt for rounded soft-edge furniture. You can also include a shallow splash zone for younger children to enjoy the water safely without venturing into deeper areas.
A7: Must-have accessories include comfortable outdoor seating, floating pool loungers, poolside drink holders, and decorative towels. For added convenience, consider outdoor storage solutions like benches or deck boxes to keep the area organised.
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