When it comes to our bedrooms, living rooms and dining rooms, we put so much thought and consideration into the layout and design to ensure our comfort and that of our guests. We consider functional needs and aesthetic design while layering in our own unique style – but when was the last time you put that much thought into your backyard?
It’s easy to let walls define your decor, but your exterior should be as carefully considered as your home’s interior. Successful outdoor spaces need definition, purpose and style – and your Pool Room is no exception. What’s a Pool Room you ask? It’s your new outdoor destination of choice!
Pools are often the heart of any home during the summer, but by adding complementary pieces and creating designated zones to lounge, entertain and dine, you can elevate your pool to a multi-season destination that checks all the boxes. Just like any other successful room design, there are key elements that you need to incorporate into your Pool Room to make it both visually pleasing and functional.
Defining your Pool Room is as easy as 1-2-3, and with our simple tips you can make a splash with your new outdoor oasis.
Zone 1: Lounge
With a focus on comfort, create space for relaxation – from chaise lounges to daybeds – but don’t forget to provide opportunities for shade and easy access to storage for necessities like towels, sunscreen and pool floats.
- Offer a variety of seating to support as many uses as possible. Consider multi-purpose seating like floats than be used both in and out of the water, water-safe chaises or even modular daybeds that can support a group of people.
- Don’t underestimate the power of pillows – they are a great way to add a pop of color or transition your style throughout the seasons.
- When creating your Lounge Zone, make sure to consider colder months by adding storage space for cushions or covers for seating.
Shop Our Picks
Zone 2: Entertain
A designated gaming zone can elevate a pool to a true destination. Offer space for outdoor games like cornhole, table tennis or foosball. Add a beverage tub, bar cart or accent table close by so refreshments are close at hand.
- Make sure to consider opportunities for shade, whether an overhang or a strategically placed umbrella. Gamers won’t last long if they are up against the summer sun.
- Don’t overlook functional details in this zone – outdoor lighting, game covers for bad weather, a place to keep score and even storage for balls or replacement parts can make this space a win.
- If you don’t have space for a large outdoor game set, consider setting up a smaller bistro table to support board games or cards.
Zone 3: Dine
No Pool Room is complete without a defined space to enjoy meals alfresco. Consider easy kitchen access as well as accompanying outdoor furniture that can provide an additional surface for serving food or acting as a beverage station.
- Whether you need extra warmth or added ambience, providing a fire table or patio heater nearby can be a great way to keep the party going in comfort.
- Adding an outdoor rug can be a great way to define your Dining Zone. Follow the same measurement rules as you would with your indoor dining table.
- If you have the space, the perfect upgrade to this zone is the addition of an outdoor kitchen, which provides convenient storage and prep space all year long.
Check out more ideas to build out your Pool Room on Frontgate.com/outdoor.
