How to Incorporate a Plunge Pool into Your Exterior Design
By: Mackenzie
As the popularity of plunge pools continues to surge, more and more homeowners are adding these compact pools to their design desires. Still, from the placement to landscaping, there are a lot of little details to consider. If you’ve been yearning for this type of pool, our designers can help impactfully incorporate one into your exterior design. Read on for some of our favorite plunge pool design ideas.
Maybe you’re interested in welcoming a new element to your exterior design, like a plunge pool. Or perhaps redesigning existing features like your garage or front entry is on your wish list. Whatever your exterior design goals are, our expert designers at brick&batten are here to help. We provide virtual home design services to help you plan exterior changes before making any costly commitments. Learn more about what we do.
What is a plunge pool?
A plunge pool is a compact pool designed for relaxation and cooling off. Plunge pools are smaller than traditional pools, making them ideal for homeowners with limited space and tighter budgets. In terms of purpose, think of traditional swimming pools for swimming laps and plunge pools for quick, refreshing dips. In outdoor spaces, these pools are functional design elements — combining aesthetics with practicality.
#1 // Integrate with the landscaping
As a sought-after design element, plunge pools are sure to be a stand-out feature of any exterior design. To create a blended, seamless look, our designers planted this plunge pool smack dab in the middle of a beautifully landscaped space. We surrounded the pool with tall grassy plants on one side, adding a layer of privacy.
The plants, mulch, and rocks surrounding the pool enhance the natural beauty of the area, creating an idyllic oasis perfect for unwinding in the water. The plants create a secluded atmosphere without completely shielding the pool from the nearby lounge area for a layout that is ideal for entertaining.
#2 // Plunge pool & hot tub combo
Because a plunge pool is smaller than a standard backyard pool, these water features are often opted for in place of a bigger pool or a hot tub. But just because we commonly see these pools in stand alone settings doesn’t mean you can’t pair them with a jacuzzi too. After all, the two elements are different.
In this design, we suggested simple decking around the plunge pool, with a step down leading to a small jacuzzi tub. The layout here is particularly intriguing because it breeds a space where people can enjoy the different features of the backyard hardscape without being separated. Folks playing mini golf in the backyard can easily mingle with those lounging in the water, preparing food in the outdoor kitchen space, or relaxing by the fire pit.
#3 // Materials matter
Some of our favorite plunge pool ideas draw inspiration from the exterior they are complementing. Here, our designers covered the outside of the pool with stone, which meshes with the limewashed stone on the exterior. While the stone on the pool isn’t an exact match to the stone on the house, the neutral shades blend beautifully. The natural materials throughout this design derive dimension and contribute to the warm and inviting aesthetic.
The materials you choose for your plunge pool are crucial to both aesthetics and durability. Stone is a strong substance, making it long-lasting and ideal for natural weather resistance.
#4 // Built-in seating for added comfort
This backyard hardscape beckons homeowners and visitors alike, urging them to unwind. From the warm lighting illuminating the dining areas on the deck to the seating space around the fire pit, we rooted this design in relaxation. The cozy vibes extended to the plunge pool, which is complete with built-in seating to optimize relaxation.
The embedded seating in the pool provides just enough definition to foster leisurely lounging. This thoughtful addition maximizes the pool’s utility and subtly contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the hardscape.
#5 // Elevate your hardscape
Despite everything in this backyard being divided into sections, each element works together to add something special to the overall design. We centered the hardscape with an outdoor fireplace, covering the floor of the seating area with wood decking and embedded lights. Behind the fireplace and on the left side of the layout, we added seating spaces.
The right side of the hardscape features an outdoor kitchen, and in its own eye-catching section, a plunge pool. We kept the space surrounding the pool simple, allowing the pool to be a stand-out element of an all-around alluring design.
#6 // Decking for dimension
We often see plunge pool ideas that make use of the flooring used on the rest of the hardscape. One of our favorite ways to give these water features a more dynamic appearance is to surround them with decking. Here, the decking gives the pool a lifted look.
#7 // Cover it up
You might use your plunge pool as a way to take a quick dip to cool off, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you want to get rained on during your soak. We positioned this pool beneath the upper level balcony, providing coverage from the elements and shade from the sun.
Our designers used cultured stone on the pool’s surround, creating contrast with the wood decking. Because the pool is capped by a ceiling with recessed lighting, there is also added visibility for nighttime dips.
#8 // Lighting for added ambiance
There are so many subtle ways to enhance a plunge pool. In this design, we used simple landscaping aspects to connect the pool to the other design elements, embracing a flowing layout. Our designers outlined the hardscape with mulch, sprinkling in plants for added dimension. Near the pool, we used landscaping lighting to amp up ambiance and elevate the elegance of the pool’s sleek finish.
#9 // Placement is paramount
One of the most important aspects to consider when exploring different plunge pool ideas is where to put your pool. Since plunge pools are compact, they don’t take up as much of your backyard’s footprint, so you don’t necessarily need substantial space to add one to your design. Consider whether you want your pool to serve as a focal point or if you’d prefer privacy.
This homeowner wanted a more secluded plunge pool, so we tucked the water feature away from the other outdoor lounge areas, filling in the cove-like space between the left end of the home and the sunroom. While we put some distance between the firepit area and the plunge pool, we kept accessibility at the forefront, connecting the two spaces with walkway pavers. The walkway emphasizes cohesion, providing a path between the backyards cool-off and warm-up zones.
Ready to take the plunge?
If you’ve been yearning for a pool but don’t have a lot of space to work with, a plunge pool might suit your design goals. There are so many impactful ways to integrate these smaller pools into your exterior. From choosing the right spot to selecting what materials to use, our designers will help you get your feet wet by planning your design before you dive into the execution phase.
Do you feel inspired to go forth and conquer your exterior design goals? Don’t let your aspirations fizzle out. Our expert designers will work with you every step of the way to bring your wildest design dreams to life. Get started today.
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