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Poolside Landscaping Ideas That Blend Beauty and Function
May 26, 2025

A stunning pool is just the beginning of a great backyard. The space around it—the poolside landscaping—is what turns your pool area into a true outdoor retreat. The right combination of materials, shade, lighting, and greenery makes all the difference in comfort, safety, and style.

At Unlimited Landscaping, we design poolside spaces that look amazing and perform under real-life conditions. Here are our top ideas for building a functional and beautiful poolside area.

1. Start with Slip-Resistant Pavers

Your pool deck needs to be durable, stylish, and safe.

Why pavers are perfect:

  • Textured finishes reduce slipping, even when wet
  • Cooler underfoot than poured concrete or stone
  • Available in endless patterns and colors
  • Easy to replace if one section gets damaged

We install custom paver pool decks that complement your home and hold up to water and wear.

2. Add Turf for a Soft, Low-Maintenance Touch

Artificial turf adds comfort and greenery without the hassle of live grass.

Why it works poolside:

  • No mud, no mowing, no brown patches
  • Drains quickly—no puddles or mess
  • Soft for bare feet, kids, and pets
  • Looks lush and clean all year long

We blend turf into paver layouts for a high-end, seamless look.

3. Use Retaining Walls for Levels and Privacy

If your yard has slope or you want a bit more structure, retaining walls are key.

They help:

  • Prevent soil erosion and manage water runoff
  • Create raised lounge or planter areas
  • Define the edge between your pool and rest of the yard
  • Add privacy from neighbors with height and greenery

We build retaining walls that function well and match your aesthetic.

4. Add Shade with a Pergola or Canopy

Every great poolside space needs relief from the sun.

Smart shade ideas:

  • Freestanding pergolas over lounge or dining zones
  • Shade sails or canopies near outdoor kitchens
  • Climbing plants for natural cover and texture
  • Built-in fans or misters for extra comfort

We integrate shade structures with your overall landscape design.

5. Light Up the Area for Evening Use

With the right lighting, your pool becomes a showpiece after dark.

Lighting ideas:

  • Recessed paver lights around the pool deck
  • Spotlights on retaining walls, trees, or water features
  • String lights over pergolas or lounge areas
  • Motion lighting near entryways for safety

We build custom lighting systems that add security and ambiance.

6. Incorporate Planters and Greenery

Plants soften the space and add color and life.

Best poolside plants:

  • Low-maintenance shrubs and tropicals
  • Container plants for flexible design
  • Palms, grasses, or succulents for style and structure
  • Climbing vines or hedges for privacy

We help you choose plants that thrive in heat and need little upkeep.

7. Add Zones for Lounging, Dining, and Entertaining

Your pool area should do more than just host swimmers.

Create:

  • A turf or paver lounge area with chairs or chaises
  • Outdoor dining space under a pergola or umbrella
  • Fire pit or outdoor kitchen for gathering in the evening
  • Fencing or screens to define and secure the space

We design layouts that blend comfort, flow, and style.

Why Choose Unlimited Landscaping?

We specialize in full-service poolside landscaping, including pavers, turf, retaining walls, lighting, pergolas, fencing, and more. Whether you're starting fresh or upgrading an existing space, we bring vision and craftsmanship to every project.

A well-designed pool area doesn’t just look good—it works better too. With smart choices like slip-resistant pavers, artificial turf, lighting, and shade structures, Unlimited Landscaping helps you create a backyard that’s as relaxing as it is impressive.

Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s bring your poolside vision to life.