Small Pools for Smaller Spaces

Not everyone has multiple acres to install a scaled-down version of a waterpark in their backyard. Additionally, those with ample room but don’t want to take up their entire backyard with their swimming pool, leaving scant usable space otherwise, are also candidates for a smaller pool design.

Smaller swimming pools can be designed to utilize both the swimming area and the area of the total outdoor space. Special considerations need to be given to the depths and slopes of the smaller pool, as there is a smaller area to make depth transitions. Proper lighting of smaller swimming pools is crucial to add elegance and ambiance to the reduced footprint. Utilizing ingress and egress systems like steps and grab rails is vital to preserving the limited useable area. Material and color choices are also essential to maximize the aesthetics of a smaller swimming pool and space.

Smaller pools can utilize virtually all of the features that larger pools utilize for conveniences, such as in-floor cleaning systems and automatic covers. Proper filtration sizing is paramount as the smaller body of water will turn over through the filtration system faster and create larger water velocities throughout the pool.

Designers can utilize vertical space to create usable space, volume, and interest when space is limited to the horizontal plane. Raised walls, raised hot tubs, and vertical water features can create vibrancy and interest in limited space. Some designers will outfit a smaller swimming pool with massage jets and a properly-sized swimming pool heater to combine the massage and relaxation benefits of a hot tub with the swimming pool in the same vessel. Swim resistance jets are also a very popular system for making “lap swimming” feasible and pleasant in a smaller-footprint swimming pool. The most critical aspects of smaller swimming pool designs are considering the positive and negative space and how the homeowner can optimally utilize the area for living comfort and recreation.