How to landscape around your pool
We adore a stunning landscaped pool area. A well-designed and thoughtfully landscaped pool area can transform your garden into a breathtaking oasis. Considering obstacles such as filters, safety and aesthetics, you might be wondering ‘how to landscape around your pool’.
Whether you have an existing pool or are planning to install one, enhancing its surroundings with strategic landscaping can create a harmonious blend of nature and relaxation.
What’s the best way to landscape around your pool?
Having created many of these, we will here share some landscaping ideas, tips, and considerations to help you design a poolside paradise that not only enhances the beauty of your pool but also maximises its functionality.
Plan your pool landscape with purpose
Before diving into the landscaping process, it’s essential to create a detailed plan that aligns with your vision for the pool area.
Consider the functionality, aesthetics, and maintenance requirements you desire. Start by assessing the available space, including its size, shape, and existing features.
Identify focal points, such as the pool deck, seating areas, and any architectural elements like pergolas or gazebos. Consider the type of pool cover you will want as this can take up a fair bit of space.
Create a Cool Stylish Retreat or a Lush Green Canvas
Commonly, pools can end up as a sea of paving but there are so many design ideas that can detract from a sea of slabs.
The greenery around your pool plays a pivotal role in setting a relaxing and serene ambience. Strategically planting trees, hedging, and flowers can provide shade, privacy, and visual appeal.
CGLA’s Ruth Marshall suggests the below
“The best plants for a pool area have minimal shedding (to prevent debris from falling into the pool) and this is an opportunity to include perhaps more tropical species such as palms if you fancy a more lush feel than you might choose elsewhere.
Hedging, ornamental grasses, and vibrant flowering plants are often also useful in creating a distinct zone within the garden.”
Think about the Hardscape Elements
Think of hardscape elements as anything stone, porcelain or composite decking. These will add structure and functionality to your pool area while complementing the natural beauty of the landscape.
Rather than having a one-dimensional space, think about popping out texture using hardscaping. Stylish hardscaping can lead to your outdoor space feeling considered and luxurious.
You will want to integrate pathways, steps, and retaining walls to create a seamless flow between different areas of your outdoor space. Most people will want a changing/shower/plant room of some kind, and some lounging space, but it is also worth considering a poolside fire pit or outdoor kitchen, to enhance the entertainment value and extend the usability of your pool area beyond swimming.
How to obtain poolside privacy and Safety
As you can imagine, ensuring privacy and safety are vital aspects of landscaping around your pool. Consider installing privacy screens, fences, or hedges to create a secluded oasis.
Utilise tall evergreens, trellis, or pergolas with climbing wires to provide both privacy and visual interest. Remember to comply with local regulations regarding pool enclosures to ensure the safety of children and pets, and a ‘walk-on’ pool cover is often a good option.
How to use lighting to create ambience when landscaping around your pool
Thoughtfully planned outdoor lighting can create a mesmerising ambience around your pool area, extending its usability into the evening hours.
Incorporate a combination of functional and decorative lighting elements to allow for entertaining as well as making it a delight to view. Install well-placed underwater pool lights to illuminate the water and create a captivating glow.
Utilise pathway lights, accent lights, and string lights to highlight architectural features, pathways, and seating areas.
Beautiful landscaping around your pool with CGLA
Landscaping around your pool is an opportunity to create a personal oasis that harmonises with the natural beauty of your surroundings. By carefully planning your design, and incorporating greenery, hardscape elements, privacy features, and lighting, you can transform your pool area into a stunning retreat that provides both relaxation and visual delight for years to come.
By implementing these landscaping ideas, you’ll be well on your way to creating a poolside paradise that seamlessly blends nature, style, and functionality. Let your imagination guide you as you transform your pool area into a stunning oasis that reflects your taste and provides a haven of relaxation and beauty in your garden.
CGLA are here to start planning your dream landscape around your existing pool. Get in touch with us today and speak to our highly experienced designers.
CGLA are an award winning team of Garden Designers, Landscape Architects, Landscapers and Garden Maintenance Operatives working in Buckinghamshire, London and the South East, as well as on prestigious design projects across the UK and abroad. We are currently working in Oman, Jersey and France, and welcome enquires for design, landscaping or garden maintenance. Contact us here