10 Small Swimming Pool Design Ideas

Think you don't have room in your backyard for a swimming pool? Think again.

By: Jacquelyn McGilvray and Erica Reitman

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Small Swimming Pools Are a Thing

Living small has definitely reached official trend status. And while it seems like everyone can’t get enough of tiny houses, we’ve been noticing another trend: small swimming pools. While we wouldn’t exactly call all of these pools tiny, we’re seeing more and more people ditch their Olympic-sized pools for a more petite version. Small pools take up much less space, require less maintenance and don’t cost as much to heat.

From: Village Properties

Add It to the Corner

In most suburbs, a quarter-acre is the standard lot size. But once you start thinking about a pool with a smaller footprint, it really opens up the possibilities of what you might be able to fit into your outdoor space.

In this yard, a small pool is tucked out of the way into the corner of the yard. And even though the pool is petite, it offers an interesting water feature, a Baja ledge, perfect for the kids on a hot summer day, as well as enough room to do some swimming.

learn more: How Much Does It Cost to Install an In-Ground Pool?

From: Carley Montgomery

Squeeze a Lap Pool Into an Urban Yard

If you happen to have a narrow backyard, consider putting in a lap pool. Designed for doing laps — but who says you can't just dunk — these pools are long and narrow and don’t require much in the way of space. Here, a walled-in courtyard provides a refreshing outdoor escape. Vine-covered walls, fancy garden gates and pretty florals create a secret garden-like appeal in the middle of the city.

Find More Ideas: 39 Lap Pool Design Ideas

From: Harry Norman, REALTORS and Luxury Portfolio International®

Think Outside the Rectangle

Although most pools are rectangular, they don’t need to be. Square pools require less space and they can look even more chic and modern than the ubiquitous rectangle. If all you need is a pool that’s large enough for a quick dip to cool off, a smaller, plunge pool might be the perfect solution.

Find More Ideas: 67 Dreamy Pool Design Ideas

Put It Up Against a Wall

In this gorgeous Moroccan courtyard, the pool extends right up to the perimeter wall. This means you'll only have access to it from three sides; however, for a more awkward-shaped space, this could be a great solution.

Find More Ideas: 40 Stunning Ways to Landscape Around a Swimming Pool

From: Luxury Portfolio International®

Fit It Into a Unique Space

Sometimes it seems like a pool might not work based on the direction your home is sited. In this case, the home is built at an angle, but the pool is not. This is a great example of why we shouldn’t be afraid to get creative when it comes to space planning.

learn more: Pool Systems 101: Saltwater vs. Chlorine

From: Bill Bocken

Integrate Your Pool With Your Deck

If you already have a deck, think about how you might be able to add a small pool to your existing setup. Extending a deck around an above-ground pool may be a more cost-effective solution than building a new in-ground pool. So if there's enough room available (and no foundation issues), it might be the perfect spot to think about adding a pool.

Find More Ideas: 30 Pool Deck and Patio Designs

Try a Budget-Friendly Stock Tank Pool

These "pools" are actually water troughs for livestock. But for those of us who are pool-less, they’re an easy, inexpensive solution for almost any outdoor space. A stock tank typically costs just a few hundred dollars. They come in a variety of sizes and can be set up with a pump like a traditional pool.

learn more: 10 Splashy Stock Tank Pool Ideas to Copy This Summer

Upcycle a Dumpster

This pool gives a whole new meaning to the term "dumpster dive". New Orleans-based architect/designer Stefan Beese transformed a used garbage dumpster into a stylish, 5-foot-deep lap pool. The blue interior liner and deck encasing the pool keep its former identity a secret.

See How It Was Built: Astounding Dumpster to Pool Conversion

Opt for a Tiny Indoor Pool

An indoor pool is another possibility if you happen to have unused space on the first floor of your home. Because the planning of an indoor pool requires a bit more time and effort, this tends to be a less budget-friendly option, but it makes swimming a year-round activity.

Find More Ideas: Indoor Swimming Pool Design Ideas

Create a Water Feature Instead

If you’ve thought of every possibility, looked at every angle and still come to the conclusion that a pool just won’t work on your property, consider adding a small water feature. A water feature (like this reflecting pool) doesn’t allow for swimming; however, it would do a nice job of bringing some peace and tranquility to your outdoor space. And you can always dip your feet in to cool off.

Find More Ideas: 70 Wonderful Water Features for Any Budget