Did you know that the average block size in Australia’s capital cities has shrunk by 22% over the past 15 years? In Sydney alone, the average land size has reduced from 654 square metres in 2005 to just 447 square metres in 2020, leaving homeowners with a third less space to work with. Despite this, the demand for backyard pools has surged, with homeowners getting creative to make the most of their limited outdoor areas.
With thoughtful design and ingenuity, even the smallest backyard can accommodate a stunning pool. This blog will explore unique pool shapes and design ideas specifically tailored for small backyard spaces.
How Does Pool Shape Impact Small Backyards?
When designing a pool for your small backyard, the shape of the pool can significantly impact the aesthetics and functionality of your outdoor space. Let’s explore how different pool shapes can help you maximise your pool area.
Creating the Illusion of Space
Selecting the right pool shape can create the illusion of more space in a small backyard. Long, narrow pools, like lap pools, are ideal for small backyards as they elongate the outdoor area.
Plunge pools and small inground pools can also be designed in creative shapes to maximise space without compromising your leisure pool experience. An infinity pool, for example, can make your pool area feel larger by drawing the eye beyond the boundaries of your yard.
Enhancing Usability
Another crucial consideration is the functionality of your swimming pool. Custom pool shapes can be tailored to fit your lifestyle, whether you want a small pool with a relaxing seating area or a long, narrow pool for exercise.
Fibreglass pools and small fibreglass pool designs are particularly versatile, allowing for various pool ideas small backyards can accommodate.
Complementing Your Landscape
Finally, the shape of your small backyard pool should complement your existing landscape and your home’s architecture. Whether you opt for a stock tank pool, a small concrete pool, or even above-ground pools, the right pool shapes can make your small outdoor space feel cohesive and inviting.
Designing a pool that small backyard homeowners will love involves a thoughtful balance of aesthetics and practicality, ensuring your swimming pool enhances your property’s overall look and feel.
Top Unique Pool Shapes for Small Backyards
When designing pool small backyards, choosing a shape that maximises your outdoor space while enhancing the overall aesthetics is essential. Here are some pool shapes small backyards can accommodate, making your backyard swimming pool a true retreat.
1. Plunge Pools
Plunge pools are a popular choice for small backyard pools due to their compact design. These small pools offer a luxurious feel without occupying much space in your outdoor area.
A plunge pool can create a relaxing oasis in your backyard, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Small pool designs allow you to enjoy your pool even in the smallest of yards. Whether you choose a small inground pool or an above-ground option, plunge pools can help you maximise your space.
2. Oval and Kidney-Shaped Pools
Oval and kidney-shaped pools provide a softer, more natural look than traditional rectangular swimming pools. These shapes are ideal for small inground swimming pools that need to fit seamlessly into irregularly shaped backyards.
Curving around your property, these pool design ideas create a fluid and organic feel in your outdoor space. These pool design ideas work well with other leisure pools we love, offering flexibility in small pool designs for a natural, integrated appearance.
Whether considering fibreglass pools or concrete pools, these shapes are great for adding elegance to your backyard.
3. L-Shaped Pools
L-shaped pools are a smart choice for designing small pool backyard spaces, as they cleverly utilise corner areas. This pool design offers a dual-purpose layout, providing both a swimming area and a seating area for lounging.
L-shaped pools can create a versatile pool area perfect for exercise and relaxation. Whether you’re interested in a long, narrow pool, a lap pool, or integrating a pool spa, this shape allows you to enjoy your pool and make the most of your outdoor space.
Enhancing Pool Design with Creative Features
Incorporating creative features can transform your small pool into a stunning focal point in your backyard. Here are a few ideas to elevate your pool design.
Integrated Water Features
Adding a waterfall or fountain to your small pool can significantly enhance its aesthetic appeal. Water features create visual interest and a calming effect, especially in a confined space.
The sound and movement of water can help make your pool area feel more tranquil and luxurious, turning your backyard into a peaceful retreat.
Built-In Seating
Built-in seating is a practical way to maximise limited pool area space while adding comfort and style. This feature allows you to create a functional area for socialising, making it easier to enjoy your pool with family and friends.
Whether it’s a bench along the pool’s edge or submerged seating, this addition makes the most of your small pool by offering versatile, space-saving options for relaxation.
Multi-Level Decking
Multi-level decking is an excellent way to add depth and dimension to a small pool. By introducing different levels, you can create separate zones for relaxation and entertainment, enhancing the overall usability of your backyard while making the space feel larger and more dynamic.
Integrating Landscaping with Small Pool Designs
Landscaping plays a crucial role in enhancing the beauty and functionality of small pool designs in your backyard. Thoughtful integration of greenery can elevate the overall aesthetic and create a harmonious outdoor space.
Native Australian Plants
Incorporating native Australian plants around your pool can help achieve a natural and cohesive look. Plants like kangaroo paw, coastal rosemary, and bottlebrush are drought-tolerant and blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment. These native species add texture and colour, complementing your unique pool design while requiring minimal maintenance.
Privacy and Seclusion
Strategically placing greenery around your pool area can provide much-needed privacy in small backyards. Tall, dense plants like bamboo or lilly pilly can act as natural screens, offering seclusion without overwhelming the space. This approach allows you to enjoy your pool in peace while maintaining an open, airy feel.
Potted Plants and Vertical Gardens
Potted plants and vertical gardens are excellent solutions for those with limited ground space. Potted plants can be easily moved and arranged to suit your needs, while vertical gardens use walls or fences, adding lush greenery without encroaching on your pool area. These elements enhance the natural ambience without sacrificing valuable space in your backyard.
Lighting Ideas for Small Backyard Pools
Lighting is essential for enhancing both the ambience and functionality of your small pool area. The right lighting can transform your backyard into a cosy and inviting retreat after sunset.
LED and Underwater Lighting
LED lights are a versatile option for illuminating your pool area, providing vibrant colours and adjustable brightness. Underwater lighting adds a stunning visual effect to your pool, making the water shimmer and creating a magical atmosphere.
Together, these lighting options can highlight the beauty of your pool design and extend its usability into the evening.
String Lights
String lights draped around your pool area or along nearby trees and fences can create a warm, intimate glow. This simple addition adds charm and sets the mood for relaxing or entertaining by the pool without overwhelming the small space.
Solar-Powered Lighting
Solar-powered lights are a fantastic energy-efficient solution. These lights charge during the day and automatically illuminate your pool area at night, offering a sustainable way to enhance your backyard’s ambience while keeping energy costs low.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Small Backyard Pool
Maximising the enjoyment of your small backyard pool requires a blend of creativity and smart design choices.
- Incorporate Multifunctional Furniture: Opt for furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as benches with storage or tables that double as seating. This helps conserve space while adding functionality to your pool area.
- Choose Light-Coloured Pool Finishes: Light-coloured pool finishes can enhance the brightness of your pool, making the water appear more inviting and the space feel larger. This simple choice can significantly impact the overall ambience of your backyard.
- Use Mirrors to Create Illusions: Strategically placing mirrors around your pool area can create the illusion of more space. Mirrors can make your small backyard pool feel more expansive by reflecting both natural light and the surrounding greenery.
- Think Creatively: Don’t be afraid to experiment with your pool design. Consider both aesthetics and functionality, ensuring that every element serves a purpose while contributing to a cohesive, stylish outdoor space.
Make a Splash with Your Dream Pool Design through Flamingo Pools
Having a small backyard doesn’t mean you have to compromise on luxury. With the right pool design and thoughtful integration of features, even the most compact outdoor space can be transformed into a personal oasis.
The possibilities are endless, from choosing unique pool shapes to incorporating creative elements like built-in seating, water features, and strategic landscaping.
If you’re ready to turn your backyard into a luxurious retreat, Flamingo Pools is here to help. Our experienced team specialises in custom-designed pool services tailored to fit your unique space and lifestyle.
Whether you’re dreaming of a plunge pool, a lap pool, or a small inground pool with all the bells and whistles, we can bring your vision to life with expert advice and a commitment to quality. Contact Flamingo Pools today to start your journey towards creating the perfect pool for your small backyard.
