The Complete Guide to Stylish and Functional Small Yard Pool Designs

Dreaming of your own personal backyard oasis but worried your small yard can't accommodate a pool? With thoughtful design and the right approach, a swimming pool can be a gorgeous addition to even the most compact outdoor spaces. From narrow lap pools to intimate plunge pools to elegantly shaped small pools, there are many options to create a custom water feature that makes the most of your available square footage. With some creative thinking and strategic design choices, you can have the tranquil, enjoyable pool you've always imagined, regardless of your yard's dimensions.

In this complete guide, we'll explore ingenious small yard pool designs, materials, essential features, and considerations for seamlessly integrating a pool into a petite backyard. Let's dive in!

Types of Small Pools

Lap Pools

For homeowners looking for a space to swim laps for fitness, a compact lap pool is a great solution. Lap pools are designed to be long and very narrow--usually no more than 10 feet wide--to accommodate swimming back and forth. This type of pool can fit into slim backyard dimensions while still providing enough space for swimmers to exercise and train. Lap pools for small yards are typically around 300 square feet but can be customized based on available dimensions and desired swim distance. The length is the most important factor, so be sure there's adequate area for your fitness needs.

Lap pools work well with linear yard shapes and can be installed along a fence or property line. Their narrow footprint conserves yard space for other amenities like patios or plant beds. For proper lap swimming, most designers recommend a minimum length of 20-25 feet. Lap pools also require enough depth for swimming strokes --at least 4 feet deep on the shallow end and up to 6 feet deep on the deep end. Stick with simple rectangular or L-shapes aligned for optimal swimming back and forth.

Plunge Pools

For a petite and playful water feature, a classic plunge pool might be the perfect fit. Plunge pools are compact, deep pools perfect for wading, cooling off, and literally plunging into refreshing water on hot days. They have a smaller footprint than traditional swimming pools, with dimensions as little as 8 feet by 8 feet. Plunge pools make smart use of vertical space with depths up to 8 feet or more, providing plenty of water volume without a large pool deck.

Because of their depth, plunge pools aren't designed for swimming laps or games, but rather for lounging, plunging, and cooling off. Choose dynamic spill-over edges or small water features to enhance the look. Locate your plunge pool in a high-use area like right off the patio. Focus on views, proximity, and ambiance rather than size. Just a few lounge chairs and you'll have a secluded retreat.

Kidney-Shaped Pools

For small yard spaces, a kidney-shaped pool offers more visual interest than a basic rectangle and can provide additional lounging space. These pools have an elongated, gently curving form resembling a kidney bean. The unique shape allows the pool to hug landscaping or wrap around existing patio and deck spaces while maximizing the water perimeter.

Kidney-shaped pools tend to have dimensions on the smaller side but with ample room for relaxation and play. An ideal kidney shape for a compact backyard is approximately 10 feet across at its widest point and extends out to 15-25 feet on the length. Minimum depths for proper circulation and swimming are around 3 feet 6 inches to 5 feet. Allow a generous pool deck on at least one long side for seating and sunbathing. Finish with a formal stone tile deck or a casual pebble edge. Position the kidney shape to complement your home's architecture and yard layout.

Key Design Elements for Small Pools

Creative Shapes and Styles

When designing a pool for a petite backyard, it's essential to think creatively about shape. Rectangular pools are the most common, but for a small space, experiment with more unconventional forms like freeform, oval, geometric, circular, or curved custom shapes. With thoughtful angles and proportions, the pool can feel like an integrated part of the landscape rather than an afterthought. Consider oval, peanut-shaped, circular pools, or freeform designs with rounded corners instead of rigid lines.

Other details like negative edges, infinity edges, beach entries, and integrated benches can elevate the pool's style and functionality. Don't be afraid to get creative to make every inch count! Focus on drawing the eye to beautiful vistas and creating intimate spaces for relaxation versus maximizing swim area.

Compact Footprints

To seamlessly fit a pool into a petite backyard, concentrate on reducing its overall footprint. Limit widths to 8-12 feet wide at most for a spacious feel in even narrow areas. For length, 25-30 feet is ideal to prevent compromising on function and swimability. Rectangular pools work well using appropriate length-to-width ratios; a suitable proportion is at least 3:1 up to 5:1. Avoid "squarish" shapes and dimensions under 300 square feet.

While very small plunge pools under 100 square feet are an option, also consider the minimum size for properly circulating, cleaning, and enjoying the pool. Consult with designers and builders to land on dimensions that balance maximizing space while retaining utility.

Multi-Functional Areas

With limited area to work with in a small yard, look for opportunities to create dual-purpose spaces around the pool. For example, integrate swim-up bars, benches, sun shelves, or tables to provide seating and surface space that also facilitates access and play. Positioning decks, patios, and hardscaping to directly connect with the water expands how you can use the pool and surrounding areas.

Plan decking space to accommodate loungers and furniture while also defining activity zones for entry, lounging, and sunbathing. Limit oversized patios and instead focus functional decking near water access points. This ensures your compact pool feels open and accessible instead of crowded.

Pool Material Options for Small Yards

Fiberglass

For quick installation and variety in shape and size, fiberglass is a fantastic material choice for small yard pools. Fiberglass pools are prefabricated from molded composite material for flexibility and strength. Because they are factory built, installation is fast and simple compared to poured concrete pools. Fiberglass also provides options for customized lengths, depths, and widths to fit your exact space.

On the downside, fiberglass offers less variety in finish options versus concrete and can be damaged if mishandled. Overall though, the lightweight durability, variety of sizes, and smooth gelcoat finish make fiberglass a top choice for compact custom pools. Most designs include integrated steps, benches, and flooring.

Vinyl Liner

For affordability and ease of installation, vinyl liner pools are ideal for petite spaces. These consist of a metal wall framework with a PVC pool lining attached. Vinyl liner pools are low maintenance and cost less upfront than concrete or fiberglass, making them a smart budget choice.

Liners also come in variety of colors to complement your yard. On the downside, they are less durable than other options and have a shorter lifespan of 5-10 years before needing replacement. Make sure to budget for periodic liner replacement. But for an easy install and flexible, fun summer pool, vinyl liners are a solid bet.

Concrete

Poured concrete is the classic choice for longevity, durability, and customized design. Concrete pools can be shaped and finished in nearly endless ways and are built to last decades. However, they have high upfront costs and require extensive site work, excavation, and construction.

The installation process also takes longer and causes more yard disruption than options like fiberglass or vinyl. Unless you have the budget, desire a highly customized look, and don't mind a more involved project, concrete may not be ideal for petite pool spaces where install efficiency is key.

Design and Installation Considerations

Measuring the Yard

The first step in planning your petite pool project is carefully measuring and mapping your outdoor space. Use a tape measure to record the precise length, width, angles, and any obstructing elements like AC units or drainage. Note permanent assets like decks, trees, and slopes. Draft a basic layout sketch of your yard including all the dimensions.

Think about how you want to use areas around the future pool. Determine the ideal spot based on proximity to patios or views while considering privacy, noise, and sunlight. Research any zoning setbacks or codes related to pool placement. Now you have the visual data you need to explore pool shapes and sizes.

Hiring a Pool Builder

Finding the right pool contractor is essential for seamlessly executing your compact pool vision. Search for builders who specialize in small residential pools and custom designs versus large community or commercial projects. Ask to see examples of their previous petite pool work. Choose a highly experienced team with demonstrated skills working efficiently in tight spaces.

Vet their customer service, project management process, and policies on budgets, schedules, permits, clean-up, and warranty. Confirm they are licensed, insured, and up to date on all relevant codes. Those with strong reputations for quality and professionalism are ideal partners for your pool paradise.

Permitting and Inspections

Like larger pools, smaller installations require permitting and code approval from your local building department. Research the permit application process and costs in your area. Most builders will pull the required permits for you and serve as liaison on inspections. But staying informed on timelines will help the project go smoothly.

Typical steps involve filing detailed plans for review, applying for permits once approved, then scheduling inspections at intervals throughout the build. Common checks include excavation depth, plumbing and electric, site drainage, safety barriers, and final walkthroughs before filling the pool. Plan for up to several weeks of lead time depending on permit backlogs.

Setting Your Budget

On average, small residential pools range from $35,000-$60,000 installed but could be more or less depending on materials, size, terrain, custom features, and labor costs in your location. Generally, you can expect to pay $125-$185 per square foot of pool area for a high-end custom small pool. More affordable options like vinyl liner abovegrounds or kits may cost as little as $15,000-$25,000.

Focus first on must-haves like size, functionality, and basic finish, then weigh the value of pricier upgrades like water features. Consult with designers early about your goals and budget; most have clever ways to deliver an inviting backyard escape on a reasonable investment. With some savvy decisions, you can relax in your own private paradise without breaking the bank.

Caring for a Small Pool

A major perk of compact pools is lower maintenance needs compared to large complexes. Though chemicals, cleaning, and repairs will be essential for healthy water and longevity. Plan to test and adjust chemicals like chlorine weekly and scrub surfaces monthly. Most pools have integrated filtration systems; follow manufacturer instructions for changing cartridges and backwashing.

For convenience, hire a local pool service for routine maintenance tasks. Arrange for a qualified technician to inspect equipment before each season. Keep an eye out for cracks or deteriorating finishes and repair promptly to avoid larger issues. Take steps like using a safety cover and solar heating to reduce energy costs. With proper care, your petite pool will provide joy for years to come.

Design Inspiration for Standout Small Pools

Need a dose of inspiration for your compact backyard pool project? These stunning designs prove small pools can make a dramatic impact:

• Corner Plunge Pool: A square corner plunge pool extends from a patio with to-die-for views. Tan tile and bubblers add flair.
• Mosaic Kidney Pool: Glass mosaic tiles in earthy tones blanket the kidney bean-shaped pool and coordination surround.
• Raised Wall-Mounted Pool: A sleek rectangular pool hovers on a stone wall above the patio for contemporary drama.
• Rustic Oval Pool: Large rocks and pebbled finish give this oval pool a natural, at-one-with-nature look.
• Zen Pebble Pool: An intimate circular pool, pebble sheath, bonsai, and bamboo combine for ultimate tranquility.

The options for small pools are almost endless when you think outside the large rectangle. Take cues from designs that reflect your personality, architecture, and landscape. With thoughtful planning, even yards under 500 square feet can be upgraded from simple to sensational.

Don't resign yourself to merely dreaming about an enchanting backyard retreat. With strategic design suited to your space, a welcoming pool can become a reality. Take inspiration from the innovative shapes, features, and details showcased here to create your personalized aquatic paradise. Before you know it, you'll be lounging poolside and enjoying all the fun, beauty, and memories a small yard pool has to offer. Dive in!