Temperatures are rising, and so are daydreams of basking beside a picture-perfect pool. As you dive into the pool planning process for your custom home in the Lowcountry, keep these tips in mind to cultivate a true backyard oasis.

#1:

Facilitate an Outdoor Lifestyle

When it comes to poolside living, convenience is key, and it’s important to determine which features fit best within the context of your lifestyle. Options including outdoor kitchens, wet bars, and showers can help keep poolside interruptions – and indoor puddles – at bay.

First things first: Increase fluidity and functionality in your outdoor kitchen by installing the right appliances (starting with that dream grill you’ve always wanted). If large gatherings are a frequent occurrence at your abode, you’ll also want to include plenty of countertop space for easy service of burgers and snacks. With the right design, an outdoor kitchen can help you avoid indoor post-party cleanup no matter how big the crowd.

For an outdoor lifestyle that spans every season, consider including a bar-slash-cabana in your plans. Outfit the space with indoor comforts like a television and barstools to avoid sacrificing any sweet tea in the summer or missing a single down of college football in the fall. 

Finally, consider creating an enclosed rinsing and changing station to keep the interior of your home from turning into a splash zone. An outdoor shower and a few hooks for holding towels are all you need to succeed!

#2:

Foster Relaxation

The perfect pool area invites perennial respite. While the summer heat has most of us clamoring for a place to cool down at the moment, it’s imperative to remember that a pool is still present once fall and winter arrive. Rather than centering your design around the pool itself, take a step back and consider different ways your outdoor space can be used to relax and entertain throughout the year.

Designing your pool zone as an extension of your indoor living spaces will make it an integral part of your Lowcountry lifestyle no matter the temperature. Step number one: Create a utopian poolside lounge with plenty of plush seating areas. If space permits, an exterior fireplace is a wonderful focal point to include in your poolscape. Whether you opt for clean lines using limestone or traditional masonry, an exterior hearth beautifully anchors outdoor settings.

#3:

Frame Your Landscape

When it comes to outdoor designs, it’s best to take a holistic approach. By planning your pool zone in tandem with the rest of your home, it’s easier to earmark areas that will help highlight verdant vegetation and pristine views on the property.

Once you’ve gotten the lay of the land, there are plenty of ways to draw attention to its unique features. A strategically placed spa lends a resort-style ambiance to every poolside aesthetic. Incorporating the right spa along a waterfront property is also a fantastic way to encourage (and extend) views of the Lowcountry landscape.

#4:

Perfect Your Patio

The right patio is akin to a happy marriage between the indoors and out. Whether you have plenty of space or are strapped for square-footage, there are many ways to incorporate a patio into your pool zone plans.

Develop a raised patio area to fit cohesively within your poolscape’s design by using subtle steps and a terraced garden. Employ large planters, intentional landscaping, and tactical furniture choices to set dining and lounging areas apart. Stone pavers will create a uniform look while also extending your surface area to allow for greater versatility.

After your patio is complete, it’s time to add the accent pieces that will make it just as beautiful as it is functional. Position lounge chairs along the edge of the pool or sprinkle bistro tables and chairs throughout the area for al fresco dining possibilities. As always, keep the overall objective of your outdoor area top of mind to ensure you’re making the most of every nook and cranny.

#5:

Find More Inspiration

Last but not least, continue to gather inspiration before bringing your plans to fruition. With years of experience working to create Lowcountry oases of all sizes, our team is well versed in the best pool zone practices. Peruse our gallery of idea homes and watch episode 7 of our Behind the Design series to gain more insight into your outdoor options.

As your planning progresses, we would be happy to discuss your family’s needs and work with you to create the perfect poolside escape in time for next summer’s heat waves. Contact us to get started.