We loved working on this landscape plan for a back yard pool in Adel. The homeowners had great ideas for a fun space for their family to enjoy. The pool, pergola, fire pit, trampoline, and plantings all fit together to create a wonderful outdoor space. More and more clients are looking for their outdoor spaces to really be places the whole family can enjoy. This back yard pool landscape project hit every note.

Design Inspiration

We create a design board for every project. We capture the ideas and dreams our clients have and bring images to make it all clear. This back yard space needed everything: a fire pit, room to hang out around the pool, some shade and screening, and a way to incorporate the existing trampoline. These images help our office and our clients cover every detail.

The designs

Our first step was to determine the pool footprint and location. Our clients knew they wanted the largest pool they could get, with plenty of space for lounging around. We left room on all four sides of the pool for kids to jump in and out. The existing patio under a screened porch had a hot tub already, and we wanted this design to incorporate those features. The pool is obviously the focal point, and serves as the hub for the rest of the space.

On the west side, we needed shade and screening. Neighbors are great, but you don’t want them completely exposed. We designed this pergola patio to fit within the footprint of the back yard space. The 10′ x 15′ patio would comfortably hold a few lounge chairs to get away from the hot sun.

We used a Struxure pergola with automatic louvers for maximum protection. They call themselves “the world’s smartest pergola”, and it’s true. These are perfect for pool spaces. Louvers open and close to create more or less shade, there’s a gutter system built in, and even electrical for lights and fans.

Tucked in the corner against the retaining wall, we designed a cozy fire pit nook. The patio pavers coordinate with the existing patio and the pergola patio. We used Unilock Rivercrest stone for the fire pit itself, to echo the limestone retaining walls around the property. This space is just off the steps from the house, so in the winter it’s easy to come over for a cozy fire.

Plantings

Around the property we planned out low maintenance planting combinations. These will bring color, life and interest to the back yard. Around the pool, evergreens provide screening year-round. Grasses and a few other shrubs bring beauty without creating tons of maintenance. We planned a large planting bed in the far corner to create screening from the nearby golf course.

Installing the project

Valley pools and Ripke Outdoor worked on the installation for this back yard pool project. Our clients served as the general contractors and did a fabulous job. There are so many moving parts in a project this complex.

Ready for fun!

The pool, pergola, fire pit, and plantings are all in place and ready for a family to enjoy. We loved working on this project and know that our clients will have so much fun in their backyard for years to come!