Small Backyard Pool Ideas – 12 Ways Splash Around Even When You Don't Think You Have the Space

Experiment with small backyard pool ideas to not only increase the functionality of this compact space but to also add a touch of aesthetics to it. And, if you are clever about it, you shouldn't have to sacrifice all your outdoor space to add a pool.

'The first thing that you need to consider is where your property lines are, what are your property line setbacks to a pool or spa, and whether the pool equipment must be within the setbacks or can sit on the property line. This may seem like a small detail but can make a big difference in your design,' advises landscape architect Janice Parker.

Once these initial factors are considered, you can get started on a large to even the tiniest pool. Our expert advice can help you on your new project.

1. Consider a natural pool in your small backyard

A great, whimsical addition to a backyard is a water feature and if you want to maintain the untouched, organic quality of this space, consider a natural pool. These look like water bodies built by nature but are equipped with water filters that will need to be cleaned regularly. Some of these may be in non-standard shapes and sizes, and can add oodles of interest to the outdoors.

'With every pool small or large comes pool equipment and zoning restrictions,' says Janice Parker. 'Once you know the ‘buildable’ envelope on your property for a pool, you can start to consider what kind of a pool will fit and look right in that space. Do not forget to consider that your pool needs to be fenced according to state and federal law. Think about this carefully, as it will affect your space in a small yard.'

2. Blend it into the landscape

A good pool landscape idea is to allow the surrounding nature envelope the water body, and remain untouched. This will give the feeling of swimming in the wilderness, and being one with nature.

'The client wanted to preserve elements of the existing yard – notably the mature trees lining the property, which provide seclusion and natural character,' says Michael Amantea, founder of Amantea Architects. 'The 380 square-metre rear yard features a swimming pool and hot tub with a modernized material palette.'

3. Go long and narrow

If you have been blessed with a backyard, it actually couldn't be easier to add a pool. It's important to think that swimming pools, especially in a smaller space needn't be tucked away, out of sight – they should be a key feature of the garden, working with the surrounding hardscaping and landscaping.

See how in this pool deck, the long and narrow waterbody sits so seamlessly with the very architectural design, echoing the shapes and style of the house.

'The house opens up through the swimming pool in an unexpected manner, and establishes a relationship with the sea,' says Martin Gomez, founder of Martin Gomez Arquitectos. 'There is a house-beach connection, where the property is separated almost by 100 meters from the outdoors.'

4. Use the pool to add to the aesthetics

In a small backyard, a pool needs to work hard. You're going to be able to see it from all angles so it needs to be decorative as well as functional. By avoiding the blue tiles that are usually synonymous with swimming pools, this tiny pool almost looks like a water feature, with its still waters reflecting the garden that surrounds it. It actually makes this small garden seem bigger as it doesn't break up the patio and bounces more light around the space.

5. Blend a plunge pool into the landscaping

Plunge pools are a great option in small back yards, sure you won't be able to do many laps, but they provide the perfect space to cool off and provide a lovely feature too. Plus, if you add in fountains you add that instantly relaxing sound to your garden.

In this 1950s L.A villa, a plunge pool sits subtly amongst pale stone raised beds and Mediterranean style planting which adds texture to the surrounding area giving in a more natural appearance.

6. Create an infinity pool

Be inspired by this small backyard pool idea and double up your pool as an infinity pool.

7. Make it moody with dark tiles

Ditch the traditional blue and opt for dramatic dark tiles. This is ideal for smaller pools as much like in small rooms, using a dark color can expand the space and make it look bigger and deeper. And isn't there just something so glamorous about a black pool? It looks wonderful contrasted with the pale sandstone patio of this fabulous Australian home design by CplusC architects.

8. Embrace minimalist industrial style

Surrounded by concrete walls and stone slabs, this small urban garden has a very paired-back industrial feel and a simple rectangular pool fits perfectly in with the minimalist style.

And look at the positioning too. The positioning of a small pool can make all the difference when square footage is limited. Floating a pool in the center of your garden will only work if you have enough space to them be able to comfortably move around the pool, so having a pool closer to the house, as can be seen here, leaves plenty of room on one side for loungers.

‘There are pool finishes for every type of pool and budget, from sleek stainless-steel pool finishes at the top of the scale through to attractive vinyl liners, which are less expensive, and come in an array of colours and designs,’ says Jamie Smith, managing director of London Swimming Pool Company.

9. Opt for a raised pool

In this small backyard, a small pool fits seamlessly into the raised decking, adding a small plunge pool while still allowing plenty of space for loungers, day beds, swing chairs, and even a lawn. Instead of tiles this small pool is white-painted plaster, very chic, and mirrors the white cladding of the house too.

When deciding on pool deck ideas make sure you think practically as well as considering the overall look. You want to pick an option that's safe, suitable for the climate of your home, and is durable.

'Installing a raised pool above the ground creates a destination and a focal point that a flush install rarely offers,' explains Karen Larson, the co-founder of Soake Pools, a maker of high-quality plunge pools that can also be installed fully above-ground. 'Additionally, the above-ground edges provide seating. It is also a great opportunity to add additional personality and decorative elements, as the exposed vertical surfaces can be adorned with materials that fit within the landscape.'

10. Go right up to the edges

When space is tight, don't waste it on a pointless edge around your pool, make the most of unused corners, and go right up to the edge of the yard's boundaries. Be sure to soften the walls using climbing plants so the pool feels less small and boxy, and plants just make for a nicer view than a solid wall when you are in the water. And see how the wall has been painted white to blend with the white interior or the pool, again making the boundaries feel less solid and creating the allusion of a larger space.

'Calamintha is an appropriate plant to have near water because its herbaceous scent repels mosquitoes,' explains landscape designer Frederico Azevedo of Unlimited Earth Care.

11. Choose a circular design

If your backyard has a more natural, rustic feel to it, sticking a blue square in the middle of it just won't work, so instead of going for a softer approach with a circular plunge pool.

Be inspired by this Cotswold farmhouse, and surround a pool with stones to create a secluded spot for a dip. Not only will this add some privacy but blends the pool area in with the surrounding landscape.

12. Think about hardscaping

In a small backyard, the hardscaping and choice of paving or decking around your pool are key, as chances are whatever your choice it's going to take up the majority of your space. This gorgeous garden makes a strong case for crazy paving, it has a lovely natural look to it that works both with the style of the property and the simple,  planting of the dry garden.

Again, see how the use of a narrow pool elongates the garden and tricks the eye into thinking the space is larger.

What size should a pool be in a small backyard?

'There is no minimum size for a small swimming pool.' says Janice Parker. 'For a small swimming pool, I would recommend 20-15 feet long by 8-6 feet wide – you want to be able to fully extend an adult body comfortably. There are variations – a pool that will fit 8 people on benches – comfortably, is 8’ x 8’. This can be versatile and yet fit well into tight spaces. Plunge pools that can be heated or be chilled can be 5’x 10’. It is all a question of how you want to use the space. If you want to swim, 20 -30’ long will be comfortable.'

How much does a small pool cost?

'A small gunite in ground pool will generally add a minimum of $40,000 to your budget. Even if the pool is small, and using less resources than a large pool, you will still need the full set of equipment, plumbing and electrical scopes of work. You will be required to have pool safety fencing and most likely some masonry work near the pool.' advises Janice Parker.