Uncovering your pool in the spring often comes with quite a bit of excitement. However, it also comes with new maintenance projects you might not have anticipated. Whether it is your first season with a pool or you are looking to upgrade your existing poolscape, you’ll want a backyard that is more than a place to house your swimming pool. It’s your own private oasis offering the convenience of a way to cool off without having to travel. Finishing the area surrounding your pool is the final phase in creating your own resort-like paradise.
As far as landscaping, think about trying out the “bed head” style by pairing colorful hydrangea with ornamental grass for a beachy feel. Use trimmed boxwoods for hedges to create privacy and cover fencing. If you would prefer lower maintenance vegetation, opt for plants that can tolerate rocky and dry settings. Creeping plants such as phlox make nice coverage for building materials and create a soft romantic space.
When it comes to hardscaping your pool area, remain mindful of the materials’ function and safety (slip resistent) as well as how much time you would like to put into maintaining your space. Dirt and debris emitting from spacing between brick and pavers can be a pesky nuisance.
If you plan to entertain poolside, consider how you will set up your dining and lounge space. Sports fans will enjoy a covered area with a mounted flat screen and other recreation activities like a putting green, bocce court or cornhole space will offer fun alternatives between dips.
In considering materials, stone, concrete, porcelain, and wood are all durable materials but there are several points to consider when deciding which to use around your pool. It can depend on your taste, how they respond to direct sunlight and maintenance.
Concrete: Most inground swimming pool decks are made of concrete and it is available in a variety of colors. It doesn’t get too hot, is easy to maintain and is soft on bare feet.
Brick: Brick is easy to maintain and has many color options, but it can get hot and moss tends to grow in the cracks between bricks creating slippery surfaces.
Pavers: A popular choice because they are affordable, easy to replace if damaged, and frost proof. They can shift over time so they require a border or frame.
Wood: A very natural look, wood is also available in many varieties and you can experiment with different patterns.
If you are considering a new poolscape or it’s your first season with your pool, Concord Design and Landscape is a great place to start. Reach out to our team!
