With short summers and long winters, Midwesterners might question whether a backyard pool is worth the investment. But these five standout designs make a strong case. Not only do pools serve as a beautiful focal point in the landscape, but they also offer function and fun—ideal for entertaining, relaxing, or cooling off on a sweltering day. Whether you’re hosting family and friends or savoring a solo sunset swim, there’s no better way to soak up the summer.
Backyard Sanctuary
Set high above the St. Croix River in Denmark Township, this breathtaking poolscape by Michels Homes, Talla Skogmo Interior Design, Alexander Design Group, and DreamScapes Landscaping & Design offers the feel of a five-star resort right at home. Carved into solid limestone, the pool and outdoor areas include a hot tub, fire pit, grill station, shower, and more—each detail curated for both entertaining and relaxation.
Modern Mediterranean Marvel
This St. Croix River Valley retreat by Hartman Homes blends Mediterranean-inspired elegance with Midwestern warmth. Designed for gathering, the home centers on a pool oasis with pool loungers, a two-sided outdoor fireplace, and grand dining area. Whether hosting a party or unwinding as a family, this charming landscape proves that indoor-outdoor living can be beautifully achieved, even here in the Midwest.
Coastal Comfort
Built as a forever home for a couple in their 60s, this Edina coastal farmhouse makes the most of its spacious city lot. Designed and crafted by City Homes, Alexander Design Group, and Studio M Interiors, the backyard features a 20-by-40-foot pool, an electric cover for safety, and plenty of room for family gatherings. And even though it can only be used for a small part of the year, it’s the perfect setting for grandkids to play and memories to be made.
City Sanctuary
This modern Minneapolis remodel transforms a corner-lot home into a secluded multigenerational oasis. Courtesy of TEA2 Architects, Santanni Custom Homes, and Aamir Khandwala Interior Design, the outdoor space is sunken into the site’s topography for privacy. A new three-season porch, open-air kitchen, and poolside dining table frame the bluestone pool deck—making the space feel like a private resort amid the urban surroundings.
Legacy Lodge
On Pelican Lake, this classic lodge by Nor-Son Custom Builders and Pearson Design Group looks like it has been there for decades. But its pool, cabana, and guest house were completed in 2022, with reclaimed barnwood, dry-stacked Minnesota fieldstone, and custom chestnut planks and shutters contributing to the rustic, aged look. The pool—tucked behind a stone ledge capped in limestone—boasts a black pearl smooth pebble finish with a hot tub and bathing ledge. With seamlessly integrated state-of-the-art technology, this retreat is as smart as it is timeless.
