10 Rectangle Pool Landscaping Ideas for a Stunning Outdoor Space

Rectangular pools are a popular choice for backyard swimming and relaxation. The following rectangle pool landscaping ideas blend modern sensibilities with classic appeal to enhance the beauty of any outdoor living space.

Top 10 Landscape and Swimming Pool Design Ideas

10. Stay Shaded

Even sunbathing enthusiasts need somewhere to cool off in style. When designing a backyard oasis, don't neglect to add a shady area. A custom-made cabana or pergola can add poolside shade and elegance, with clean lines that create a pleasing effect.

9. Include a Waterfall

Why stop at a pool? Enhance your pool with extra water features like a waterfall. Opting for these additions can truly elevate your space and create a natural vibe that invites relaxation.

8. Cook Up a Kitchen Space

Expand the functionality of your backyard pool area by installing an outdoor kitchen with ample seating. The combination of stylish, fun, and functional ensures your entertaining space becomes the envy of the neighborhood.

7. Add Greenery

Incorporating natural elements, such as plants and stone, can help blend your pool area with the surrounding landscape to create a beautiful and serene atmosphere. If you don't have a green thumb, the following low-maintenance plants both look amazing as ground cover and can easily thrive in a St. Louis climate:

• Ornamental grasses like lemon grass, fountain grass, and pearl millet
• Durable, hardy shrubs like dwarf nandina
• Tropical plants like hibiscus

6. Install Paver Walkways

Visualizing your outdoor space shouldn't start and stop with a pool. A walkway made with the right materials can tie the entire area together in a way that feels organic and sophisticated. Natural stone pavers not only add elegance and charm to your space, but they can complement your greenery to give your pool area a calming natural look.

5. Create a Spa Area

For unmatched elegance and relaxation, make your rectangular pool part of a larger swim spa area. Hot tubs, adjustable pool swim currents, natural stone finishes, and integrated landscaping and hardscape features will completely transform even the most unassuming of spaces.

4. Light It Up

The right pool lighting will ensure you can enjoy your pool during summer days and summer nights, maximizing the time you can enjoy your outdoor oasis. A strategic combination of underwater lighting, deck lights, and landscaping lighting can add visual interest, emphasize your space's best features, and help make your yard safer at night.

3. Add a Fire Pit

Contrasting elements can come together to create a truly energized space. Add a fire pit to enhance the ambiance of your poolside seating area and create an inviting focal point for backyard gatherings.

2. Include a Sun Shelf

A sun shelf or tanning ledge is the perfect addition to any luxury pool, allowing your family and guests to enjoy the pool without fully immersing into it.

1. Stay Bubbly

Create a sense of dynamism with a pool bubbler or fountain by your tanning ledge or entry. It adds energy, visual appeal, and can even help cool your pool off in sweltering weather.

Pool and Landscape Design Considerations

The following factors should always be part of the pool design process.

Size and Shape

The size of your outdoor space should always be a top consideration when designing your pool. Your pool should be a complementary element of your outdoor space, not a domineering feature that crowds everything else out.

Upkeep and Maintenance

Rectangle pool landscaping ideas always need to factor in realistic considerations like upkeep costs and maintenance items. If your dream pool is beyond the scope of what you realistically can (or want to) upkeep on your own, consider hiring professionals to maintain your pool for you, so all you need to worry about is relaxing.