How to Design the Perfect Swimming Pool for Your Backyard Summer Oasis
Swimming pools are essential for homeowners in the American Southwest. They are a refreshing way to relax in the summer heat and can provide a calming space to recoup after a long day. With the right planning, you can create the ultimate resort-style vacation home escape and a gathering space your family and friends will want to experience again and again.
When designing your perfect desert oasis, think about how you would like to use the pool and the way you want the space to make you feel to achieve the style that works best for you.
The Purpose of the Pool
From swimming laps to enjoying the calming water sounds over your morning coffee, a pool can serve many purposes. How you and your guests will use the pool dictates the size, shape, and amenities of your backyard sanctuary.
Burning about 250 calories every 20 minutes, swimming is an excellent workout. If you enjoy a few laps to start your day, you may want a more traditional rectangular-shaped pool to account for the ideal 45-foot length and minimum 3-foot depth for laps. If you are a serious swimmer, you may even install a separate lap pool where you can also include a current generator to give your workout an extra boost.
Perhaps your preferred use is a refreshing dip to shake off the heat and relax after a busy day. Consider a modern swimming pool design with multiple levels for continuous water movement and a variety of depths. Include an in-pool hot tub to melt away stress and make sure to have plenty of in-water seating. And of course, you want to make sure your pool is large enough to accommodate your favorite luxury size pool float.
From the natural clear-blue ripples to the soothing sounds of moving water, your backyard can be a tranquil spot for meditation and yoga. Include water features such as fountains or waterfalls and incorporate elements of nature to create a centering environment. Be mindful of the deck materials so the area surrounding the pool is cool and comfortable for your meditation practice.
The homeowners of the Painted Sky residence in the north valley Scottsdale desert wanted a space that connected to their love of design and nature. The thoughtful design of the infinity-edge pool blends seamlessly with the natural landscape and has a large deck area for quiet contemplation. The pool water continues through the house to become a modern water feature in the entry courtyard.
The Location of the Pool
With homes in the Scottsdale area, almost every view is phenomenal. From the beautiful mountains and golf course views to the natural desert landscape, you have an abundance of options for a pool-side view. Even so, you want to be intentional about the location of your backyard oasis as it relates to the house and the surrounding environment. Decide what you want to see, and what you don’t, while you are enjoying your pool.
Consider the view from your house. Do you want to see the pool from your great room, or possibly have easy access to the kitchen? When you entertain family, do you want to be able to keep an eye on who is in the pool? The answers to these questions could dictate where the pool is situated on your property.
Next, think about the view from the pool itself. When you are relaxing in the water, what do you want to see? An infinity-edge pool is a great option when you have a picturesque view.
The pool at the Saguaro Forest home mirrors the scenic saguaro that surrounds the property. The view from the great room inside the house and from the deck of the pool reflects the crystal blue skies and the statuesque cacti, providing a serene connection to nature.
If you don’t have an army of saguaro standing guard, or just need a little more privacy in your luxury backyard oasis, you can still create a barrier that includes natural elements. Consider boulders and other large stones to create a visual break between the pool and the rest of the property. You can also include a variety of drought-friendly plants to add to the seclusion. Consider the beach-like feel of Mexican feather grass or the ease of Texas sage.
If a more traditional fence is the best option for you, look into natural and low-maintenance options such as adobe and stone. You can still create inlets and shelves for potted agave and aloe so your poolside view is more than a wall.
The Poolside Accessories
While they do add to the beauty of your home, pools are more than just a pretty space. If you are going to put the time and resources into a pool, you want to make sure it’s set up so you and your guests are excited to use it. The right amenities make your pool into a place you want to enjoy all day.
Find functional and modern poolside furniture that can go into or stay out of the water. Nothing beats a lounger that sits easily in the shallow end, or that can be moved to the shade when the sun is too much. You may also consider misting fans to drop the air temperature in the vicinity. Those work great in a nearby ramada or pergola as a place to get out of the sun between laps.
Don’t underestimate the importance of lighting. Not only does it help you enjoy your pool after the heat of the day, but it is also a safety measure. Underwater lighting can create a subdued ambiance, and it can be powered by electric or solar options. Play with different colors to see what works best with the materials you chose for the pool.
Also, be intentional about the deck materials. You want a beautiful space that doesn’t burn your bare feet and doesn’t get slippery when wet. Look to stone and pavers. Play with texture and mix in some tile to create interesting patterns. Create a path to make the pool a focal point and make room on either side for an interesting mix of plants and outdoor-friendly artwork.
Your pool should be more than function. Make sure to include some fun accessories as well. A water slide is a great addition for your young (or young-at-heart) visitors, and fire pits or outdoor fireplaces pair perfectly with an evening swim. If you plan to host pool parties, also consider a swim-up bar and an outdoor kitchen in close proximity to your guests in the pool or lounging poolside.
A Must For Your Luxury Backyard Design
As a vacation spot or your retirement destination, you want your second home to provide rest and relaxation. Including a pool in your luxury backyard design gives you a place for energizing exercise, calming meditation, and engaging entertainment. When you know the Sonoran Desert is where you want to be, reach out to Scottsdale’s top custom home architects, UDA Ltd. We’re ready to work with you to create the resort-style vacation home you are looking for. Tell us about your project today!