Imagine stepping into your backyard and being greeted by a stunning oasis that perfectly complements your above-ground pool. Thoughtful landscaping isn’t just about looks—it enhances functionality, increases property value, and creates a serene escape. Whether you're aiming for a tropical retreat or a modern, minimalist aesthetic, making informed choices will ensure your pool area becomes a true backyard sanctuary. Here’s how to design your dream poolside landscape like an expert.

Key Takeaways:

Functionality Meets Aesthetics: A well-designed poolside landscape balances beauty with practicality, making your outdoor space both inviting and functional.
Think Beyond DIY: Poolside design requires careful planning and the right materials. Hiring a professional landscape designer like Julius from JFK Garden Designs ensures every detail is thoughtfully executed.
Long-Term Investment: Strategic landscaping choices, from plant selection to hardscaping materials, not only enhance your space's beauty but also increase its durability and property value.
Low-Maintenance Solutions: Prioritise low-maintenance plants, durable materials, and eco-friendly practices to reduce upkeep and ensure your pool area remains pristine year-round.
Design in Phases: Consider breaking down your project into phases to spread costs, ensure thoughtful execution, and avoid costly mistakes.

1. Choose the Right Plants for a Low-Maintenance Poolside

Selecting the right plants can transform your pool area while minimising maintenance. The wrong choices can lead to excessive debris, high water consumption, and unnecessary upkeep. When planning your design, consider opting for:

Tropical Plants: If you want a lush, resort-like feel, opt for palm trees, hibiscus, or bird of paradise. These plants thrive in warm climates and add striking visual interest
Drought-Tolerant Varieties: If you live in a dry region, succulents, ornamental grasses, and lavender provide beauty without high water demands.
Low-Litter Options: Avoid plants that drop leaves, flowers, or fruit. Opt for evergreen shrubs and non-flowering perennials to keep your pool clean with minimal effort.

Pro Tip: When selecting plants, consider their root structure. Aggressive roots from trees like willows can damage pool liners and decking over time.

2. Design a Functional Layout with Three Key Zones

A well-planned layout ensures your pool area is both beautiful and practical. Consider dividing your space into three key zones:

Lounging Area: Comfortable seating with shade options such as pergolas, umbrellas, or retractable awnings.
Dining & Entertainment: A deck or patio with a dining set, outdoor kitchen, or fire pit for social gatherings.
Kid-Friendly Space: A safe, open area with non-slip surfaces, soft grass, or cushioned play zones.

Pro Tip: Ensure that pathways between zones are intuitive and uncluttered to prevent accidents and maintain an open, spacious feel.

3. Use Hardscaping to Enhance Structure and Durability

Hardscaping elements define your pool area and provide lasting durability. Well-chosen materials ensure your space is practical, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.

Decks & Patios: Choose materials like composite wood, natural stone, or stamped concrete for longevity and slip resistance.
Pathways: Use gravel, flagstone, or pavers to create safe and visually appealing walkways.
Retaining Walls & Raised Beds: These can add depth and structure while integrating plant life seamlessly into your design.

Pro Tip: Opt for heat-resistant surfaces to prevent the ground from becoming uncomfortably hot underfoot during summer months.

4. Ensure Privacy for a More Relaxing Atmosphere

Privacy enhances the feeling of a secluded retreat. Here are some of the best ways to create a sense of enclosure around your pool:

Natural Barriers: Bamboo, evergreen trees, and hedges create lush green screens that also reduce noise pollution.
Fencing & Walls: Wood, vinyl, or stone fencing provides security while complementing your landscape aesthetic.
Outdoor Screens & Curtains: A cost-effective way to add privacy while maintaining an airy, flexible space.

Pro Tip: Use a combination of these soluti

5. Use Strategic Lighting for Safety and Ambiance

Lighting serves both functional and decorative purposes. It ensures safety after sunset while enhancing the poolside atmosphere.

Pathway & Perimeter Lights: Illuminate walkways and pool edges to prevent tripping hazards.
Underwater Lighting: Adds a luxurious glow to the pool while making nighttime swimming safer.
Decorative Accents: String lights, lanterns, and LED candles add charm and warmth to your space.

Pro Tip: Solar-powered lighting is an eco-friendly option that reduces energy costs while adding to your pool’s ambience.

6. Maintain Your Poolside Areas for Lasting Beauty

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your backyard oasis looking pristine. While designing for low maintenance is the optimal choice, you should still establish a routine that prevents overgrowth and keeps your pool area inviting.

Watering & Pruning: Adjust watering schedules based on plant needs and seasonality.
Mulching: Helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds around plants.
Pool & Deck Cleaning: Regularly remove leaves, dirt, and algae buildup to keep surfaces safe and visually appealing.

Pro Tip: Invest in a robotic pool cleaner and automatic irrigation system to save time on maintenance.

7. Opt for Eco-Friendly Landscaping Material Choices

Make your poolside oasis both beautiful and sustainable by choosing eco-friendly landscaping materials that conserve resources and enhance the natural environment.

Native & Drought-Tolerant Plants: These require less water and adapt well to local climates.
Organic Fertilisers & Composting: Improve soil health naturally, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
Permeable Hardscaping: Materials like gravel and porous pavers allow rainwater absorption, reducing runoff and erosion.
Reclaimed Materials: Use salvaged wood, bricks, or stone to reduce waste and create a unique aesthetic.

Pro Tip: Consider rainwater harvesting systems to further conserve water and sustain your landscape.

8. Integrate Water Features for a Spa-Like Feel

Water features enhance relaxation by engaging all five senses. When planning your design, consider adding soothing sounds and movement to your outdoor space.

Fountains: Visually appealing and mask unwanted noise from neighbours or streets.
Small Waterfalls: Seamlessly blend with your pool design and create a resort-like feel.
Pondless Water Features: Offer continuous water flow without requiring significant upkeep.

Pro Tip: Circulating water helps prevent mosquito breeding, making your pool area more comfortable in summer months.

9. Add Stylish Poolside Furniture for Ultimate Comfort

To create something truly special that you and your family will cherish forever, your choice of outdoor furniture will significantly impact the comfort and style of your poolside retreat.

Weather-Resistant Materials: Wicker, aluminium, or teak offer durability and aesthetic appeal.
Cushioned Loungers: Perfect for sunbathing and unwinding by the pool.
Multi-Functional Seating: Benches with built-in storage maximise space efficiency.

Pro Tip: Use fade-resistant, quick-drying cushions to withstand poolside splashes and sun exposure.

10. Budget Effectively to Maximise Your Investment

Designing a poolside landscape requires careful planning to create a functional, beautiful space. Cutting corners may save money now, but can lead to costly mistakes later. A professional designer ensures every element works together for lasting beauty and functionality.

Poolside design is complex: It goes beyond choosing plants and materials; the layout, plant selection, and integration of hardscaping elements must balance both aesthetics and functionality.
Every design decision matters: From selecting durable, low-maintenance materials to choosing plants that complement your pool environment, each choice impacts the longevity and enjoyment of your outdoor space.
Hiring a landscape designer adds value: A professional ensures your design is visually appealing, practical, and long-lasting, while helping prioritise key features and avoid costly mistakes.

Pro Tip: Plan your project in phases, focusing on essential elements first, such as layout, shade structures and foundational features, while leaving decorative touches for later. This approach not only spreads costs over time but ensures each phase is executed thoughtfully and professionally.

Final Insights and Expert Guidance

Transforming your backyard into a poolside paradise requires more than just a vision—it needs a well-thought-out plan and attention to detail. A successful design integrates plants, durable materials, and eco-friendly practices to elevate your space and reduce maintenance. While DIY may seem tempting, it can lead to costly mistakes.

A professional designer like Julius from JFK Garden Designs ensures seamless integration of every element, creating a low-maintenance, beautiful space that enhances your lifestyle and property value. Save time, avoid mistakes, and let Julius help you turn your backyard into the low-maintenance oasis you’ve always dreamed of.

Transform Your Backyard Oasis: 10 Expert Tips for Designing Landscaping Around Your Above-Ground Pool.