It’s almost that time of year again to start hanging out poolside! From tanning to holidays, your backyard pool has become a source of memories for you, your family, and friends. This summer, elevate your backyard by adding themed décor, greenery, and lighting to take your pool to the next level!
Decide on a Theme
Before adding or purchasing any décor for your pool, it is important to know what kind of theme you want. This will give you a goal before you start shopping. Knowing the theme will not only make it easier for you to shop, but it will also help the finished product look cohesive. Alpha Pools is there for the entire pool-building process, including preparing the pool deck area, and can assist with ensuring your entire pool area is cohesively designed.
If you are unsure what kind of theme you want, here are a few examples you can start with.
- Tropical
- Bohemian
- Monochromatic
- Mediterranean
- Retro
- Coastal
Time For a Green Thumb
One way to transform your space is to focus on landscaping. Lush green grass and plants like palms, hibiscus, bougainvillea, and agapanthus will elevate your backyard to the next level by adding dimension and color.
To reduce maintenance time, try adding native plants instead since they have already adapted to the weather around you.
When adding plants around your pool, make sure to plant them at least 4 feet away to prevent dirt and debris from falling into it. Also, avoid adding any plants or trees with aggressive root growth to prevent damage to the pool’s foundation.
Lights!
A fun way to take your pool to the next level is to add lighting in and around it. Adding a variety of lights allows you to enjoy your pool at night. When you are considering what type of lighting you want, make sure to keep these things in mind: pool finish, function, color, and technology.
Pool Finish
Your pool finish can impact how color is perceived in the water. If you have a light or medium-colored finish, light will bounce off of it and reflect, leaving you with pretty colors. However, if you have a darker finish, it will absorb the light, leaving you with a murky-looking pool. You also need to consider matching with your pool cover.
Function
Are you adding the light to create an ambiance, or are these lights meant for safety? Knowing what you need your lights for will make the decision easier. If you’re going for fun, the world is your oyster, but if you are adding lights primarily for safety, it is best to do your research to find the best option for you.
Color
With the pool finish and function in mind, it’s time to choose the color of your lighting. If the main function of the lighting is safety, a white or yellow light will be best since it will illuminate the pool the most. If you want to add some fun, try getting color-changing lights to match whatever the occasion is.
Technology
Finally, make sure to consider the different lighting technologies. Some lights allow for remote access through your phone, and others offer dimming settings. This is extremely convenient since you will not have to search for a remote all the time. Some even allow music to sync with the lights to create a light show!
If you want a more natural way to light up your backyard, try tiki torches or a fire pit!
Accessorize
One way to spice things up is by adding themed accessories. Try adding some of these to your backyard to elevate your experience.
- Lounges
- Pool Beds
- Hammocks
- Umbrellas
- Bistro Sets
- Coordinating Seat Cushions
- Slides
- Pool Floaties
- Pool Games
Adding a mixture of accessories to your backyard will personalize it, enhance its functionality, and create a welcoming ambiance for relaxation and entertainment. You may be required to have a pool fence, so make it a part of the décor!
Enjoy the Process
It is a process to get everything right, which is why it is crucial to take one step at a time. Get one project done before starting another, or else you will be left with a bunch of unfinished projects, making them more challenging to finish.
Remember that the entire process is to create a fun and inviting environment, so have fun with it! Don’t forget to check out our gallery of completed pools for inspiration!
