The fleeting months of Midwest summers hold a special magic. Making the most of the warm weather is nonnegotiable, and for many homeowners, the best way to do this is by creating an outdoor oasis in their own backyards. These five homes put pools on center stage, surrounded by inspired landscapes and entertaining zones that make enjoying days in the sun at home feel like a true getaway. Before you take the plunge on your pool project, look to these examples that are masterful studies in landscape and pool design.
Outdoor Escape
Scott Amundson
Set inside a charming Deephaven neighborhood, this home’s outdoor features include a pool, hot tub, and casual dining space from Kyle Hunt & Partners, Rehkamp Larson Architects, and Yardscapes Inc. The concrete pool is bordered by a minimal stone edging and accessed by stepping stones. Balancing hardcover and natural materials in the landscape, the size of the pool and the accessory building were carefully planned, and the stucco finish on the pool building—which stores equipment and garden supplies—and rafter tail detailing mimics the character of the home. It’s a setting that drums up excitement every year as the weather warms.
Urban Oasis
Spacecrafting/Rob Grosse
The design of this enchanting backyard oasis in St. Paul from Mom’s Design Build seamlessly connects the pool to the dining and seating areas through patterned brick patios and surrounding gardens. A see-through gas fireplace was added between the existing dining and seating areas, within view of the pool, to add warmth and privacy. A thoughtful preservation strategy to the property’s three-foot diameter Horse Chestnut tree was implemented at the client’s request, completing the cozy, intimate feel of the outdoor space.
[Related: 6 Breezy Sunrooms for Lounging]
Poolside Luxury
Spacecrafting/Mike McCaw + Michael Green
Outdoor living doesn’t get more luxurious than at this residence, where seamless flow from the home to the pool, a 1,000-square-foot covered pavilion, and eight acres of protected preserve is a major highlight. Gordon James used gray-tinted steps with 75 feet of integrated ribbon lighting to guide guests from the interior to the acid-washed concrete decking. The linear firepit and fully equipped outdoor kitchen round out the amenities for impressive alfresco entertaining.
Stately Extravagance
Spacecrafting/Rob Grosse
This pool area in Medina from Hendel Homes and Prestige Pools seamlessly balances luxury, privacy, and a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. The pool area was carefully integrated into the existing site topography with thoughtfully crafted stone retaining walls, custom stone caps, and a pool deck that flows effortlessly into a nearby three-season porch. The use of natural materials including custom blended stone to match the home’s façade and slate roof contributes to a timeless, estate-like presence.
Countryside Charm
Spacecrafting/Michael Green
When the homeowners moved into their countryside retreat, they envisioned a backyard that embraced the charm of rural living while delivering the ultimate space for entertaining. Surrounded by nature and wildlife, they wanted a design that matched their home’s country aesthetic and created a warm, welcoming setting for family reunions and gatherings. Mom’s Design Build delivered with this multifunctional backyard featuring a pool with a diving board, hot tub, fire table, and ample seating options, plus a pool house complete with a fireplace, bar, TV, and automated screens that shield the space from summer bugs and the elements.
Read this next: A Mediterranean-Inspired Backyard Transformation
|
|
|
