Are you looking for small backyard pool ideas? Well, we’ve got you covered. Installing a pool when space is limited in square feet can seem an impossible task. If you’re dealing with a small, cramped backyard or just an odd shape, how and where do you hit the pool? It just takes some creativity.
And if you’re skilled at it, you don’t have to sacrifice all of your outdoor space to add a pool. A small pool is usually thought of as about 12 feet tall, and it can even get smaller if you just want the pool to cool off.
If you have a small garden, there are many options for adding a water entertainment product to your garden, and the plus is that even if you need to choose a small pool, it does not mean that you are limited to using a plunge pool. Provides advice to SPATA (Swimming Pools and Allied Association).
There is no rule, for example, to say that a swimming pool must be rectangular. And no one requires it to be the same. If you have an inconvenient garden space, a pool can be created to suit it. If your garden is long but not particularly spacious, it is possible to have a swimming pool designed to effectively serve as a swimming path. A lap pool can fit in surprisingly tight spaces while still being a great addition to your home.
So shapes can make all the difference, too. Long, narrow swimming pools are on trend right now, bringing an ultra-modern Mediterranean feel to any garden of their size. Round pools can work well in small backyards too and are perfect for corners, plus they look lovely when tiled and can almost be incorporated into garden landscapes for a very natural rustic look.
So if you tend to add the tiniest of pools to your small backyard, let these adorable gardens (plus expert advice) inspire you to get started on a new venture.
What should you consider before adding a pool to a small backyard?
“The first thing you need to consider is where your property lines are located, what your property line setbacks are to the pool or spa, and whether pool equipment should be in the range of setbacks or can sit on the property line.” Landscape architects Janice Parker advises.
This seems like a small detail but it can make a big difference to your design. With every small or large pool comes pool equipment and zoning restrictions! Once you know the “buildable” envelope on your property for a swimming pool, you can begin to think about what type of pool would fit and look appropriate in that space. Don’t forget to keep in mind that your swimming pool needs fencing according to state and federal law. Think about this carefully, as it will affect your space in a small yard.
Now you should think about the direction of the pool and seating areas. There is nothing prettier than the evening sun by the pool – so a western orientation is optimal. I always look to get reflections in a pool – so locating a pond where a large tree will create reflections is important for the best Monet effect.
1. Go tall and narrow
(Photo credit: Boca do Lobo)
If you’re blessed with a small, narrow backyard, it wouldn’t actually be easier to add a pool. It is important to consider that swimming pools, especially in smaller spaces, do not have to be far, out of sight, they should be an essential feature of the garden, working with the surrounding spaces and the landscape.
See how this small backyard, pool front and center, sits naturally with the architectural design of this modern garden as well as repeating the shapes and style of the house. Additionally, instead of being just a simple rectangle, the pool flows into the gaps in the garden again, blending it more with the patio.
2. Double the pool as a decoration
(Photo credit: Architect Lionel Morrison / Photographer: Charles Smith)
In a small backyard, the pool needs serious work. You will be able to see it from all angles, so it should be both decorative and functional. By avoiding the blue tiles that are usually synonymous with swimming pools, this small pool almost feels like a water feature, its stagnant water reflecting the garden that surrounds it. It actually makes this small garden look bigger because it doesn’t break the yard and reflects more light around the space.
3. Incorporate a plunge pool into the landscape
(Image credit: Noah Webb, noahwebb.com)
Plunge pools are a great option in small backyards and you certainly won’t be able to take many courses, but they make the perfect space to relax and make a great feature too. Plus, if you add fountains, you instantly add that relaxing sound to your garden.
In this 1950s Los Angeles villa, the pool sits subtly between raised faded stone beds and Mediterranean plantings adding texture to the surrounding area giving a more natural look.
4. Make a small pond a water feature
(Photo credit: Janice Parker)
Be inspired by the idea of a small backyard pool and double your pool as a hidden water feature. The best gardens start with a simple indoor and outdoor focus. This is what creates the ease and elegance of the design layout. I love adding a water feature in the pool – something that catches your eye and makes the space welcoming and relaxing. Janice Parker says:
5. Make it moody with dark tiles
(Photo credit: Murray Fredericks)
Ditch the traditional blue and opt for dramatic dark tiles. This is ideal for small pools as in small rooms, the use of a dark color can expand the space and make it appear larger and deeper. Isn’t there something so magical about a black pool? Looks great in contrast to the dull sandstone patio of this gorgeous Australian home design by CplusC Architects.
6. Adopt the simple industrial style
(Image credit: Matthew Williams)
Surrounded by concrete walls and stone slabs, this small urban garden has a very close industrial feel and a simple rectangular pool that fits in perfectly with the minimalist style.
And look at positioning, too. Placement of a small pond can make a big difference when space in square feet is limited. Placing a pool in the center of your garden will only work if you have enough space for them to move comfortably around the pool, so having a pool close to the house, as can be seen here, leaves plenty of room on one side for chairs.
7. Choose an elevated pool
(Photo source: the agency)
In this small backyard, a small pool fits seamlessly into the raised deck, adding a mini plunge pool while providing plenty of room for deck chairs, daybeds, swing chairs, and even a lawn. Instead of tiles, this small pool is whitewashed stucco that’s very elegant and mirrors the home’s white cladding as well.
When deciding on pool deck ideas, make sure that you think practical as well as consider the overall appearance. You want to choose an option that is safe, climate-friendly, and durable.
8. Go straight to the edges
(Photo source: Armil Habib)
When space is tight, don’t waste it on a useless ledge around your pool, take advantage of unused nooks, and go straight to the edge of the patio border. Make sure to soften the walls with climbing plants so that the pool looks less small and boxy, and the plants provide a nicer view than a solid wall when you’re in the water. And see how the wall is painted white to blend in with the white interior or pool, again making the border less rigid and creating a hint of a larger space.
9. Choose a circular design
(Image credit: Unique Homestays)
If your backyard has a more natural, rustic feel, sticking a blue square in the middle won’t work, so instead go for a softer approach with a round plunge pool.
Be inspired by this Cotswold farmhouse, and surround the pool with stones to create a secluded spot for a swim. Not only will this add some privacy, but the pool area will blend in with the surrounding landscape.
10. Think Hardscape
(Image credit: Courtesy of House + House Architects)
In a small backyard, scraping and choosing paving or decking around the pool is key, chances are whatever you choose will occupy the majority of your space. This wonderful garden makes a strong case for crazy paving, it has a beautiful natural appearance that matches the property’s style and simple dry garden planting.
Again, see how using a narrow pool lengthens the garden and tricks the eye into thinking the space is bigger.
What size should a small backyard swimming pool be?
“There is no minimum size for a small swimming pool.” Janice Parker says: For a small pool, I recommend 20-15 feet long and 8-6 feet wide – you want to be able to comfortably extend the body of an adult. There are variations – a pool that seats 8 people – comfortably, 8 x 8. This can be quite versatile and fit well in tight spaces. Heated or cooled plunge pools can measure 5′ x 10′. It’s all about how you use the space. If you want to swim, a length of 20-30″ will be comfortable.”
How much does a mini pool cost?
A small in-ground pool gunite will generally add at least $40,000 to your budget. Even if the pool is small, and uses fewer resources than a large pool, you will still need a full set of equipment, plumbing, and electrical work ranges. You will be required to have a safety fence for the pool and most likely some construction work near the pool. Janice Parker advises.