55 Small Pool Designs, Inexpensive and Space Saving Ideas for Modern Backyards and Terraces

A small pool and a beautifully decorated area around it are modern trends in backyard designs. Small pool designs made a big splash and are staying afloat as the latest trends in 2026. Whether you want to have a small pool in your compact backyard or dream of reducing pool maintenance, a small oasis created around a pool is the stylish and practical choice.

There are a few types of small pool designs and features that are having a significant moment. Plunge pools, cocktail pools, fire and water features, curved shapes, jets, waterfalls, built-in umbrella stands and loungers, and LED lights are strong trends that enhance the beauty of small terraces or modern backyard designs. The Lushome collection of modest pool designs can help you choose the right space-saving ideas for compact outdoor spaces.

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Pool design trends

Small spaces

Minimalist-style plunge pools create a spa-like atmosphere in small yards. A combination with a hot tub is perfect for hot-cold water therapy. Another popular trend in pool designs is the cocktail pool, which is ideal for lounging and socializing. Curved and free-form pools reflect the latest trends, incorporating soft curves and organic elements into their design. Curves add a calming, natural feel to terraces and backyard designs.

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Pool features

Water features, such as jets, waterfalls, and fire-water combinations, elevate small pools, adding drama to backyard designs. Fire pits and fire tables near a small pool create a warm ambiance in the beautiful space. Built-in loungers, partially submerged in shallow ends, and built-in umbrella stands are modern trends that provide ultimate relaxation.

Waterfalls and jets are lovely water features that add interest to small pools. Hydrotherapy jets and the sounds of cascading water create a resort-like atmosphere that benefits health and wealth. LED Lighting is an exciting addition to modern pool designs. Underwater lights can change colors, creating a soft glow at night and enhancing the visual appeal of the space.

Intelligent systems that control temperature, lighting, and water quality, as well as saltwater systems, are eco-friendly features of modern small pools. Sustainability and advanced technology are influencing modern terrace and backyard designs, offering eco-friendly and cost-effective solar heating options for small pools.

Space-saving decorating ideas

Integrated decks created from composite materials or natural wood conveniently wrap around the small pool, creating a beautiful connection with the rest of the backyard. Creative sun shade structures and pergolas add comfort and elegance to landscaping. Space-saving ideas include compact outdoor furniture and built-in benches with soft, cushioned seating. Colorful throws and pillows help add personality to small backyard decorating.

Greenery

Small yard decorating looks cozy and beautiful with plants and flowers that add a natural vibe to outdoor living spaces. Tall potted plants, trellises with vines, hanging planters, and mature trees create a sense of privacy and a resort-like ambiance. Succulents and cacti are perfect for decorating desert backyards and super small spaces.

Lighting ideas

Modern lighting fixtures quickly create a warm and welcoming ambience. Solar-powered lanterns, string lights, LED pool lights, and weather-proof floating lights are fabulous design trends that give a warm glow at night.

Extra features

Surrounding the pool with natural stone or wood decking and using gravel, pebbles, or pea stones are budget-friendly, low-maintenance, and attractive ways to add texture to small pool designs and enhance the surrounding areas. You can do many beautiful things around a small pool, saving money and time, while decorating it.

You can add an outdoor bar table with a bar cart or tall chairs for a more elegant look. A cooler for poolside refreshments, a towel rack for towels, and a creative storage space for keeping floating toys, cushions, and umbrellas are additional features that make life easier, more organized, and enjoyable.

  by Ena Russ   
   19.07.2025