Amazing Backyard Swimming Pools

This rectangular pool is anything but basic. With the carefully selected mix of natural stone, flat patio rock and tile, it is a swimmer’s dream. Even better is the hot tub with infinity ledge, which acts as a source of heated water for the pool below. For backyards with pools, lawn care can become front and center, check out our guide on how to reseed your lawn like a pro.

With the perfect balance of stamped concrete and lush greenery, this backyard pool beckons with the promise of long, lazy afternoons in the sun. The climbing vines and easy to care for groundcover create a garden oasis without the maintenance, meaning more pool time with family and friends.

Curves are nature’s most graceful shape, and they are highlighted in this pool to perfect effect. The exposed aggregate deck is a perfect non-slip choice for this space, and the substantial planters offer just enough tropical vibe to this sunny spot. To get the most out of your planters, view our quick video on the best container gardening tips.

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Who says traditional needs to feel stuffy? This colonial home is enhanced by the modern class of the delicately curved pool and wrought-iron fence. With the solid pool surround and just enough flowers to add some color, this backyard pool respects the classic feel of the home.

Plus: All you need to know about maintenance-free fencing.

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With the wooden boardwalks and koi pond, this backyard pool invokes a lush Asian-inspired vibe which would be perfectly at home in the backyard of a Craftsman-style home. The muted tones, infused with floral pops of pink, are the perfect backdrop for the soothing sound of the mini-waterfall. To build your own backyard oasis without a huge price tag, check out our guide to building an outdoor pond and deck.

This pool takes nautical to the next level with custom hardscaping. The compass rose embedded in the stone pool deck, and the addition of large ferns brings to mind a tropical ocean setting just awaiting discovery. For even more, check out our hardscaping ideas for your backyard.

With the ample solar panels on this home, you’d never have to worry about a pool heating bill again! With its natural wood elements and sleek lanai extending to the pool ledge, this eco-friendly house and pool design is the perfect place to lounge on a sweltering day. If you’ve ever wondered if solar power is right for your home, we’ve got some things for you to think about.

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This pool seating area has it all—symmetry, shade and a grand fireplace for cool summer evenings on the water. Even without a pool, a backyard patio is a perfect place for family and friends to gather. Check out our guide on how to build a pergola to add a focal point in your backyard.

Contrary to widespread belief, you can take the economical route and still get a swoon-worthy yard by installing an above-ground pool. By building the pool level with the decking, it provides an upgraded entry that feels like an extension of the deck space and is the perfect place to take a plunge, right outside your door. For yards that are difficult to excavate or laden with tree roots, an above-ground pool is a perfect solution.

Plus: Low Maintenance Decks

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This backyard pool oozes luxury with plenty of sun and a large pool house for guests to change. The neutral tones and sculpted shrubbery are reminiscent of a Tuscan villa and add classic charm to the area. Even if you don’t have a pool, an outbuilding, like our fabulous pub shed, is the perfect addition to any backyard where people gather!