5 Landscape Design Tips to Improve the Look of an Inground Pool in Jamestown, RI

A backyard pool can bring so much joy to your life. With the right landscaping, your pool can become a centerpiece of the backyard - so much more than a place to take a swim on a hot day. Your pool deck, lighting theme, design theme, plants, and materials should work together to create the feel you want. If you need some inspiration, here are 5 landscape design tips to improve the look of an inground pool in Jamestown, RI.

Related: How to Pick the Right Masonry to Go With Your Bristol, RI, Inground Pool

1. Planning

First, consider: how you will use the pool (which will dictate the shape and size of the pool as well as the size of the surrounding pool deck); themes you like; the pool’s location; whether you want to use the pool area in all seasons (add a fire feature, pavilion, and hot tub); amenities such as pool games, nets, slides, etc.; accessibility; a formal or relaxed setting; your color preferences; how much time you have for poolside maintenance; and of course, budget.

2. Themes

For a modern, sleek look reminiscent of a chic spa, choose minimalist design, neutral pavers and monochromatic plantings, laminar jets, mixed materials, and straight lines.

For a tropical feel, choose sand-colored pavers, a waterfall, lush plantings, and curved shapes to evoke the feeling of a tropical lagoon.

Create a Mediterranean villa look with tumbled pavers, a fountain, a vine-covered pergola, and turquoise or Aegean blue tiles as accents throughout the space.

3. Safety (and Ambience)

Safety is a priority especially if you have small children, pets, or if you entertain often. Always include safety fencing, non-slip pavers, and good lighting.

Fencing can be a beautiful addition to your backyard. Today’s aluminum fencing looks just like the classic wrought iron but without the rust. If you prefer privacy fencing, keep it a fair distance from the pool to avoid a closed-in feeling and to maintain clear sight lines to the pool from the home and your landscape.

Choose from non-slip pavers that complement your home’s architectural style. Achieve a clean modern look with large format pavers, or make your poolscape just like your favorite vacation spot by choosing pavers with the sand colors of the islands or beaches you love.

LED lighting ensures that your pool area is lit for safety and ambience. Use creative lighting strategies such as a zoned approach that makes your pool well-lit at night without overwhelming the nighttime feel of your backyard.

4. Privacy

Give your backyard pool area a secluded feeling with privacy fencing. For added interest, separate panels with masonry columns; add LED lighting or string lights along the length of a privacy fence; or opt for trendy designs such as those using alternating board sizes. Vines, living walls, and shade structures can also provide privacy.

Achieve a stunning effect with a water wall which pumps water to the top of an opaque glass, metal, or even masonry structure, allowing the water to trickle down the face. This lets you enjoy the soothing sounds of moving water even when nobody is in the pool; and it’s a focal point that makes a dramatic statement.

5. Easy Does It

It’s easy to go overboard with landscaping, especially if your aim is to recreate a lush tropical lagoon feel. You want easy entry and good visibility for your pool, so don’t overdo the landscaping immediately around the pool. A few strategically placed boulders will go a long way in creating a naturalistic vibe, without making your pool area feel cluttered.

Related: 5 Tips on Creating the Perfect Patio to Complement a Backyard Pool in Newport and Jamestown, RI