A swimming pool is more than just a place to cool off during the hot Australian summers—it’s a centrepiece of your outdoor space. A well-maintained and thoughtfully designed pool area not only enhances your home’s aesthetic appeal but also improves functionality and safety. Whether you have a sleek modern design or a resort-style backyard, keeping your pool area stylish and practical is key to maximising enjoyment and value. Here’s how you can achieve the perfect balance.
1. Choose Stylish & Durable Poolside Materials
The foundation of any stylish pool area lies in the materials used for the surroundings. Opt for materials that are both visually appealing and durable against Australia’s harsh climate.
- Natural Stone Pavers – Timeless and elegant, natural stone such as travertine, limestone, and granite provide a sophisticated look while being slip-resistant and long-lasting.
- Composite Decking – If you prefer a timber look without the high maintenance, composite decking is an excellent choice. It resists moisture, fading, and warping, making it a great option for poolside areas.
- Large Format Tiles – For a sleek and modern look, large-format tiles create a seamless aesthetic and are easy to clean.
2. Incorporate Stylish & Comfortable Outdoor Furniture
Outdoor furniture plays a vital role in the overall look and functionality of your pool area. Choose pieces that offer both comfort and style while being weather-resistant.
- Lounge Chairs & Sunbeds – Invest in high-quality sun loungers with UV-resistant fabrics to withstand Australia’s strong sun.
- Outdoor Sofas & Daybeds – For a resort-style feel, incorporate plush outdoor sofas or daybeds with weatherproof cushions.
- Dining Areas – If you love entertaining, consider an alfresco dining setup with a sturdy, stylish table and comfortable chairs.
Look for materials such as powder-coated aluminium, teak, or synthetic wicker, which are designed to handle outdoor conditions while maintaining their appearance over time.
3. Enhance the Ambience with Thoughtful Lighting
Lighting can dramatically transform your pool area’s ambiance, making it functional for evening use while adding a stylish touch.
- Underwater Pool Lights – LED pool lights create a magical effect at night and can even change colours for different moods or occasions.
- Pathway & Garden Lighting – Soft lighting along walkways and garden beds improves safety and aesthetics.
- Overhead String Lights – For a warm and inviting atmosphere, install string lights over seating areas.
- Solar-Powered Options – Eco-friendly and cost-effective, solar-powered lights are great for pathways and decorative features.
4. Introduce Greenery & Landscaping
A stylish pool area is often complemented by beautiful landscaping. Thoughtful placement of plants can provide shade, privacy, and a tropical or contemporary feel.
- Native Plants – Opt for low-maintenance native Australian plants such as Kangaroo Paw, Lomandra, or Agave that thrive in the climate.
- Palm Trees & Bamboo – Create a resort-like atmosphere with strategically placed palm trees or bamboo screens for added privacy.
- Vertical Gardens – If space is limited, vertical gardens or potted plants can add greenery without taking up too much room.
- Artificial Turf – If you want greenery without the upkeep, artificial grass provides a lush look without the hassle of mowing or watering.
5. Maintain Water Clarity & Pool Hygiene
A beautiful pool area means nothing if the water is murky or unsafe for swimming. Proper pool maintenance keeps the area looking pristine and functional.
- Regular Skimming & Cleaning – Remove leaves and debris daily to keep the water clear.
- Proper Chemical Balance – Use the right chemicals to maintain pH levels and prevent algae growth.
- Filtration System Maintenance – Ensure your pool’s pump and filtration system are working efficiently to keep the water clean.
- Pool Covers – Use a pool cover when the pool is not in use to reduce debris accumulation and water evaporation.
6. Add Shade & Weather Protection
The Australian sun can be harsh, so incorporating shaded areas enhances comfort while protecting you from UV exposure.
- Shade Umbrellas – Portable and easy to use, umbrellas offer flexible shade options.
- Pergolas & Gazebos – A permanent structure like a pergola or gazebo provides an elegant shaded area for lounging or dining.
- Retractable Awnings – Adjustable awnings allow you to control the amount of sun exposure throughout the day.
- Poolside Cabanas – If you want a luxurious touch, a poolside cabana creates an exclusive, resort-style retreat.
7. Keep the Pool Deck Clean & Organised
A cluttered pool area can quickly diminish its stylish appeal. Keeping everything tidy improves both safety and aesthetics.
- Outdoor Storage Solutions – Use weatherproof storage boxes or built-in benches with storage to keep pool accessories and cushions neatly tucked away.
- Towel Racks & Hooks – Install stylish towel racks to keep the area neat and provide convenience for swimmers.
- Minimalist Approach – Avoid overloading the space with excessive décor—stick to key statement pieces that enhance rather than clutter the area.
8. Upgrade Pool Features & Accessories
Adding modern features to your pool area can make it more functional and visually striking.
- Infinity Edge Pools – If you’re planning a renovation, an infinity-edge pool creates a sleek, high-end look.
- Water Features – Fountains, waterfalls, or water walls add movement and tranquillity.
- Fire Pits – A fire pit near the poolside provides a cosy touch for cooler evenings.
- Outdoor Showers – Installing an outdoor shower adds convenience and a resort-style aesthetic.
9. Install Safety Features Without Compromising Style
A functional pool area must also be safe, especially for households with children or pets.
- Frameless Glass Pool Fencing – Offers safety without obstructing the view.
- Non-Slip Surfaces – Choose slip-resistant tiles or textured decking to prevent accidents.
- Smart Pool Alarms – If you have young children, a pool alarm can alert you to unexpected water activity.
10. Embrace a Cohesive Colour Palette & Design Theme
To maintain a stylish pool area, ensure that your materials, furniture, and décor align with a cohesive theme.
- Neutral & Earthy Tones – Classic and timeless, shades of white, beige, grey, and timber accents create an elegant feel.
- Coastal Blues & Whites – A coastal-inspired design with blue and white elements brings a fresh, beachy vibe.
- Tropical Greens & Wood Tones – If you love the tropical resort look, use lush green plants and warm timber finishes
- Minimalist & Contemporary – Opt for sleek lines, monochrome colours, and minimal décor for a modern look.
Conclusion
Keeping your pool area stylish and functional requires a combination of thoughtful design, durable materials, and regular maintenance. By incorporating smart landscaping, comfortable furniture, ambient lighting, and modern accessories, you can create an inviting space that remains practical for years to come. Whether you prefer a luxurious retreat or a sleek modern setting, following these tips will ensure your pool area remains a stunning and functional focal point of your home.
Contact our team at Barrier Reef Pools and get a FREE QUOTE on your dream Fibreglass Pool today!
Summer in Australia means long, hot days and endless hours of fun under the sun. Keeping kids cool, entertained, and safely enjoying the outdoors becomes a priority. At Barrier Reef Pools Perth, we know that a backyard pool is the perfect solution to beat the heat, but sometimes kids need a little extra excitement to stay engaged. With a few creative ideas, your pool can become the ultimate summer playground, bringing hours of laughter and relief from the heat. Here are some fun and refreshing ways to help kids cool down and make memories in the pool all summer long!
1. DIY Pool Obstacle Course
Transform your pool into an adventurous obstacle course that will keep kids active and entertained! Use floating objects like pool noodles, inflatable rings, and even beach balls to create a course that challenges their swimming skills.
- How It Works: Set up stations where kids need to swim through hoops, climb onto a floating platform, or manoeuvre around obstacles without touching them.
- Add a Timer: To add an element of competition, use a timer so kids can try to beat each other’s times or their own personal records.
2. Water Balloon Splash Party
Nothing says summer fun like water balloons! Fill up balloons with cold water and have a water balloon fight in or around the pool. You can also make a game out of it by trying to toss the balloons to each other without breaking them.
- Pro Tip: Fill a small plastic pool with water balloons for easy access, or use a net to create a “balloon station” that floats in the pool.
- Safety First: Be sure to pick up balloon fragments afterward to keep the pool and surrounding area safe and clean.
3. Ice Cube Dive
For a quick, cool-down game, throw ice cubes into the pool and challenge the kids to dive and retrieve them before they melt. This activity not only keeps them cool but also sharpens their underwater skills.
- Make It More Challenging: Use coloured ice cubes to add a layer of fun and ask kids to retrieve specific colours in a certain order.
- Reward the Winner: The child who collects the most ice cubes can win a small prize or get the first choice of a poolside snack!
4. Floating Snack Bar
Nothing is as refreshing as an icy treat during a pool day. Set up a floating snack bar filled with hydrating snacks like watermelon, grapes, and ice pops. This allows the kids to snack and cool down without leaving the pool!
- Stay Hydrated: Include ice-cold water and flavoured drinks to keep everyone hydrated.
- Use a Pool Float or Cooler: A large pool float with cup holders or a floating cooler can work perfectly for setting up a pool-friendly snack bar.
5. DIY Pool Games with Pool Noodles
Pool noodles are versatile and inexpensive, making them the perfect tool for countless pool games. Try setting up noodle races, where kids use a noodle as a horse to “ride” across the pool, or create a floating basketball hoop using noodles and a mesh bag for a creative pool basketball game.
- Noodle Jousting: Divide kids into pairs and have them sit on inflatable rafts while using pool noodles to try to knock each other off.
- Noodle Relay: Create relay races using pool noodles as batons to add a cooperative twist to the competition.
6. Water Gun Races
Water guns are always a big hit with kids! For this activity, hang up plastic cups on a string across the pool and have the kids aim their water guns to push the cups along the string. This can be a timed challenge or a race to see who gets the cup to the other end first.
- Obstacle Twist: To increase the difficulty, create mini “obstacles” on the string for the cups to navigate around.
- Team Play: Form teams and let the kids take turns, encouraging teamwork while they cool off.
7. Poolside Movie Night
As the sun starts to set and temperatures cool down, let the kids enjoy a poolside movie night. Set up a projector and screen by the pool, add some comfortable floating loungers, and let the kids enjoy a movie from the water.
- Bring on the Snacks: Include fun, themed snacks like “shark bites” made from fruit and a cooler of drinks to make it a complete experience.
- Safety: Always supervise, especially if kids will be in the pool during the movie, and use pool lights for extra visibility.
8. Splash Pool Dance Party
Turn up the tunes and let the kids splash around in the pool to their favourite music! A pool dance party is not only a fantastic way for kids to let loose, but the splashing and moving around also help them stay cool.
- Floating Disco Balls: You can find floating, waterproof LED lights or disco balls that change colour, creating a fun, party atmosphere in the water.
- Keep the Beat: Use a waterproof Bluetooth speaker to play a summer playlist and let the kids vote on their favourite songs.
9. Sunscreen Painting and Art Time
While keeping kids safe in the sun, you can make sunscreen application more fun by turning it into “sunscreen painting.” Let the kids “paint” designs on their arms or legs with a fun-coloured, kid-friendly sunscreen before they dive into the pool.
- Poolside Craft Station: Set up a craft station by the pool for them to create drawings inspired by their pool adventures. Just remember to take breaks from the water to dry off before handling any art materials.
- Sunscreen Touch-Up Game: Create a reminder game that encourages reapplying sunscreen regularly with a small reward each time they do.
10. Pool Treasure Hunt
A treasure hunt in the pool will keep kids occupied for hours. Hide waterproof toys, coins, or other small treasures around the pool and give kids a list of what to find.
- Clues for Extra Fun: Add clues for older kids or make it a timed event to up the excitement level.
- Reward with Prizes: After the hunt, give a small prize to the child who finds the most items or the one who completes the hunt the fastest.
With these creative pool activities, your kids will be set to have the best summer yet while staying cool, active, and entertained. A well-maintained, safe, and engaging pool environment makes for endless summer memories. At Barrier Reef Pools Perth, we love helping families make the most of their pools, and our selection of high-quality fibreglass pools ensures everyone can enjoy the perfect backyard retreat. For more tips on pool safety, design, and maintenance, or to explore our pool options, visit our website or contact our team today!
