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Summer Time Landscape Design Tips for the Pool

When the summer comes, the swimming pool must be ready to welcome your BBQ guests for fun in the sun!

When designing their landscapes, many homeowners leave the pool until last and never seem to get to the task. It’s easy to neglect the pool since it doesn’t always seem like an important part of the yard. What they don’t realize is that with a little effort, a pool can turn a boring backyard into a paradise oasis with the right elements and design.

Pull the cobwebs off those plans! Here are some ideas to get you started on your landscape pool design.

Plan

A great design plan will be contingent on your ability to see the elements around your pool along with the features of the pool itself. A skilled landscaper will assess the colors, textures, and patterns of nearby structures, trees, flowers and gardens to keep the flow continuous around the pool.

Fences

One of the biggest concerns for homeowners is safety. If you have young children, pets, or even friends with children, a fence should be your top priority. Make sure your fence locks and is difficult for young children to open. For privacy, purchase a high fence of at least six feet so most people cannot see inside the area. If you want to let some light in, consider a shorter fence or a design with openings such as lattice or basket-weave.

Lighting

Lighting is essential for safety reasons and ideal for beautifying the pool area. For safety, add underwater and perimeter lights. The pool should contain a light at the deep end, on the steps, and around the outside so people can see the edge clearly at night. Fiber optics are generally used because they are safer and offer low maintenance. Once you design lighting for safety, consider adding decorative fixtures to enhance the space.

Foliage

The pool should look like it is cohesive with the rest of the yard. Plants provide a continuous flow from the pool to the backyard landscape and make it look like it was included in the overall design even if it was an afterthought. Ground covers will hide unsightly pool fixtures, and grasses and evergreens will warm up the space and also add a level of comfort. Be careful not to choose foliage that attracts bees or that develops roots that could damage the pool in the future. If you are unsure about correct foliage around a pool and the proper locations, talk to a landscape professional who specializes in pools.

Decking

Though budget may be an issue, don’t skimp with the walking area around your pool. Even though they are more expensive than bricks or other materials, pavers are a great choice because they move with the ground and will last longer. They also come in many different patterns and color options. Talk to the manufacturer about your choices and which one will suit your pool area. Ensure the material you select is slip-resistant as well.

Visit design websites and your local stores to gather some design inspiration. Take the time to research what you want so mistakes are minimal.