How to Design the Ultimate Mid Century Modern Swimming Pool
Looking to make a splash with a mid century modern pool design? This iconic aesthetic is making a big comeback, offering a chic way to enhance your backyard. Clean lines, geometric shapes, and seamless integration create an elegant outdoor oasis for swimming, entertaining, or just soaking up the sun. Use these tips to master the mid century pool look.
Mid century modern style emerged in the years following World War II, especially in California, as architects pursued simplicity and functionality in new suburban homes. Hallmarks of mid century design include open floor plans, ample windows, and integration with nature. Pools were a natural extension, using shapes and materials to harmonize indoor and outdoor living.
Defining the Mid Century Modern Pool Style
While originating in the 1950s and 60s, mid century modern pools feel fresh and contemporary today. Here are the key elements that define this iconic look:
Geometry
Mid century pools favor geometric forms - primarily rectangles but also curves, angled edges, and freeform shapes. The goal is a clean, minimalist look that complements both the architecture and landscape.
Integration
Rather than being set apart, mid century pools integrate seamlessly into the surrounding environment. The transition between indoor and outdoor spaces is fluid. Pool shapes, materials, and layout intentionally harmonize with architecture and landscaping.
Minimalism
Ornamentation and unnecessary details are avoided. Pool finishes and deck materials tend toward neutral tones like cool grays, blues, and natural stone. The overall look is very pared down and simplified.
Hardscaping
Hardscaping refers to hard materials used for landscaping elements like patios, retaining walls, and fences. Mid century designs utilize concrete, aggregate, flagstone, breeze blocks, and wood to complement softer plantings.
Developing Your Design Concept
With the style defined, the real design work begins. Start by identifying your needs, constraints, and priorities. Here are some key considerations:
Purpose
How will the pool be used? For lap swimming? Recreational play? Lounging and sunbathing? This guides choices like size, shape, and depth. Also consider amenities like slides, fountains, or underwater seating.
Users
Factor in who will use the pool and how often. A family with young kids has different needs than a single adult or occasional entertainer. This influences safety features, supervision, and activity spaces.
Site Conditions
Evaluate sunlight, views, noise, privacy factors, and regulations affecting the site. Are there ordinances governing pool placement or landscaping? What views do you want to frame or block? Sunlight will dictate optimal orientation.
Complementary Spaces
Design pool surroundings too. Patios, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and planting beds extend living space. Choose hardscape materials and plants that enhance the mid century modern vibe.
Key Design Elements
With the big picture in place, refine details that define the look. Here are some key elements to focus on:
Tiles
Tile patterns and textures provide visual interest. Mid century modern often used simple, geometric mosaics. Today, glass, ceramic, and stone tiles offer countless options for creative patterns or solid, neutral colors.
Finishes
For concrete pools, exposed aggregate and pebble finishes provide texture. Plaster offers a smooth surface with classic hues like white, light blue, or slate gray that epitomize mid century style.
Decking
Natural stone, exposed aggregate, concrete, and wood lend organic textures. Flagstone, wooden planks, and breezy blocks reinforce the indoor-outdoor connection.
Lighting
Creative lighting transforms the pool at night. Underwater, deck level, and pathway lighting create ambiance. Fiber optics and color LEDs add pizzazz.
| Water Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Fountains | Provide soothing sounds and visual interest |
| Bubblers | Gentle jets add texture to the water's surface |
| Overflow channels | Waterfalls at pool's edge or into catch basins |
Furnishings
Outfit pool surroundings with chic, minimalist lounge chairs, umbrellas, and pendants. Planter boxes and pots display succulents, grasses, and greenery.
Integrating Modern Luxuries
Today's pools integrate technologies and amenities undreamt of in mid century days. Embrace innovations that enhance enjoyment and sustainability.
Smart Home Integration
Automate water chemistry, lighting, temperature, and maintenance through smart pool systems operable from your phone.
Sustainability
Eco-friendly options like solar heating, water conservation, and native plantings reduce your environmental impact.
Accessibility
Accommodate users of all abilities with zero-depth entries, lifts, and grab bars. Open up design to more people.
Wellness
Swim jets, underwater treadmills, and swim spas support exercise, therapy, and rehabilitation right in your backyard.
With research and planning complete, engage qualified pool contractors to bring your mid century modern vision to life. Communicate your goals and style so choices align. Be open to their experience and suggestions too. Investing in a well-designed pool creates an elevated backyard oasis for years of enjoyment.
Embrace geometry, simplicity, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow in your mid century modern pool design. Integrate clean lines, natural textures, and elegant minimalism for a sophisticated, contemporary pool space that stands out from the crowd.