This could be the start of your very own oasis of relaxation.
1. Artistic Touch
Sometimes, a pool is more than a pool—it’s a canvas. Adding an artistic touch with custom artwork, hand-painted tiles, or bold mosaics can breathe new life into an indoor aquatic space. The beauty lies in creating something that is not only visually striking, but that also tells your story.
One family I worked with recently dreamed of a pool mural that echoed their travels—lush jungles, sweeping beaches, and a hint of whimsical wildlife. The vibrant wall became a true conversation starter, a personal statement that transformed their pool into a place of wonder.
Let your imagination set the tone for your retreat.
If you find yourself drawn to a specific color palette or theme, don’t be afraid to experiment. Art in your pool area can take many forms, from subtle water-inspired accents to dramatic installations. It’s not just about decoration—it’s about expressing yourself and feeling joy every time you look around. Think about the transformative power of creativity. Where could a splash of color take you?
2. Embrace Open Space
Do you ever notice how a sense of open space instantly creates a feeling of calm? By leaving wide walkways and minimizing visual clutter, you create both airiness and ease around your indoor pool. Sometimes the simplest designs deliver the most luxurious results.
Less truly can be more.
3. Comfortable Seating
When it comes to comfortable seating, think beyond the basic lounger. Layering in plush, water-resistant options makes your poolside not only practical, but truly indulgent. Here are a few favorites to consider:
- Classic loungers for stretching out post-swim
- Modular sofas that adapt to groups or solo relaxation
- Accent chairs for quick chats between dips
Proper seating invites everyone to linger, connect, and unwind.
Jane and Alex, a couple I worked with last year, wanted a cozy conversation area beside their new hot tub. Together we layered soft textiles, varied seat heights, and easy-to-move pieces. The result? Their poolside became everyone’s favorite gathering place for everything from laughter-filled parties to lazy Sunday afternoons.
Make this space your retreat, not just a pass-through.
4. Eco-Friendly Options
When thinking about eco-friendly indoor pools, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for sustainability. Choose solar heating to cut down on energy use, or opt for water filtration systems that use less power and fewer chemicals. Some families even collect rainwater for topping up their pool—how clever is that?
What’s good for you can be good for the planet, too.
I once worked with a family who wanted a refreshing but responsible retreat. We designed their pool with a solar-powered heating system and a natural filtration setup that used aquatic plants. The result was a space that was just as gentle on their senses as it was on the environment.
Elevate Your Space With Decorative Elements That Dazzle
How you finish your pool area can completely transform the entire mood. I love mixing sleek materials to create a sense of both luxury and relaxation. No matter your design style, there’s room to experiment and add your unique stamp.
Want something that feels like a boutique spa? The right textures can make all the difference.
Some of my favorite materials for a sophisticated finish include:
- Hand-painted tiles for a splash of artisan color
- Natural stone that brings warmth and timeless character
- Wood paneling for those hygge-inspired vibes
I once helped a couple searching for personality in their pool area—we selected custom mosaic tiles in their favorite ocean blues. When the light danced across those tiles, they said, “It feels like our own mini-resort.”
Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through every detail.
Nature’s Embrace
Why not let your indoor pool feel like it’s tucked inside a private garden? Even a few lush potted plants or a living wall can instantly soften the lines and add gentle, fresh energy.
Take a moment to imagine the gentle sway of leaves and the play of green shadows across the water.
Sometimes the most peaceful spaces are the ones that invite nature inside.
7. Privacy Enclosures
There’s something magical about stepping into a pool area that feels like your own little hideaway. Whether you want to block out distractions or just enjoy a quiet moment, thoughtful enclosures can instantly elevate your sense of privacy—and comfort—indoors.
If you’re seeking ways to tuck yourself away from the world, consider these creative enclosure ideas for your indoor pool or hot tub:
- Soft, flowing curtains add a dreamy touch and are easy to pull back when you’re craving sunlight.
- Lush indoor greenery or living walls provide both privacy and a sense of tranquility—plus a little bit of the outdoors, inside.
- Decorative screens can be stylish focal points, especially when playing with patterns or handcrafted materials.
I once assisted a couple who craved both openness and seclusion for their pool area. By combining elegant wooden screens with a row of tall, leafy plants, we created a layered effect—allowing them to control the view and light in their retreat. It truly became a space they adored, perfect for a midnight dip or a calm afternoon.
Everyone deserves a private corner to unwind.
8. Zen Retreat
When you embrace a Zen retreat aesthetic, your indoor pool transforms into a haven of calm. Keep lines clean, colors soothing, and décor accents minimal. Isn’t there a certain hush that comes with simplicity?
A single bowl of river stones or a bamboo water feature can set the mood. Remember: peace flows where clutter goes.
Sometimes, true luxury is a few mindful moments just for yourself.
9. Want Indoor-Outdoor Freedom? Retractable Roofs Are the Answer!
There’s a certain delight in pushing a button and watching your *ceiling* slide away, welcoming the sky, the stars, or a gentle breeze indoors. That’s what a retractable roof brings to a pool area—real flexibility mixed with a dash of surprise.
Some days call for soaking up the sun, while others beg for shelter from a sudden shower. With a retractable roof, you get the best of both worlds. The space instantly switches between cozy and open-air, letting your mood—and the weather—lead the way. Imagine hosting friends on a rainy afternoon, only to reveal a blue sky the minute the clouds part. *That’s living!*
One of my clients transformed her family pool parties this way. By adding a retractable roof, she not only wowed her guests but also used her pool year-round. There was something magical about swimming under the stars one evening, then closing the roof for a snug movie night on the water the next.
Why settle for the ordinary when you could have a pool experience that changes with a touch?
If you love the idea of blending indoors and out—on your terms—this could be your next inspired upgrade.
10. Mood Lighting
Transforming a pool space is all about atmosphere, and LED mood lighting is my favorite way to do it. When you layer soft, adjustable lighting, you can create a space that feels intimate for an evening swim or energizing for a pool party. The magic lies in choosing colors that reflect the mood you want—*deep blue for relaxation*, *vivid green for a lively feel*, or even a playful pink for a special occasion.
I once worked with a family who wanted to surprise their daughter for her birthday. We installed a sequence of programmable LEDs that cycled through her favorite colors, creating a shimmering effect that danced across the water. The look on her face was unforgettable, and since then, they’ve made “light shows” a tradition for every family celebration.
Consider this: Place the lights beneath the waterline for a dreamy effect, or tuck them along the ceiling for a gentle glow that doesn’t overpower. Adjusting color temperature can help you move from refreshing daylight vibes to cozy nighttime lounging.
What kind of mood are you hoping to set the next time you take a dip?
11. Natural Light Galore
Let the sunshine in—there’s nothing quite like it.
Natural light can completely change how a space feels, infusing your pool area with warmth and a sense of openness. Imagine gliding through the water as sunlight pours in through beautiful skylights or expansive windows. The effect can make you feel almost outdoors, no matter the season.
Recently, I worked with a client who wanted to maximize winter sunlight. We chose high windows that welcomed soft morning rays—now, her children race to the pool every sunny morning. If you can, orient your windows to catch the best light throughout the day.
12. Indoor Waterfall
An indoor waterfall brings immediate tranquility to your pool space. The gentle, soothing sound of cascading water is more than beautiful—it’s a natural form of white noise that can melt stress away.
Let your senses guide you—a small, artful waterfall may be all you need to create a private retreat.
Modern Elegance: Creating Spaces That Feel Effortless
Modern elegance isn’t just a trend—it’s a way of making your space feel *inviting* and *expansive* with uncluttered lines and a careful balance of textures. Think less is more, but not less comfort!
Choosing sleek materials—like polished concrete, glass, and brushed metals—paired with a sophisticated palette of soft greys, crisp whites, or deep charcoals, can instantly elevate a pool area. Don’t forget, great lighting turns the ordinary into the *extraordinary*: recessed LEDs set the mood, while sunlight streaming through large windows gives that unmistakable *serene* vibe.
I once worked with a young professional who wanted his indoor pool to feel like a boutique hotel. We chose a dramatic slate for the flooring and softened the look with oversized linen loungers. The result was *striking*—a space that truly embodied relaxation and style.
Modern elegance is all about creating an oasis that feels effortless, but leaves a lasting impression.
Luxury, Inside and Out
High-end features turn a simple soak into true indulgence. *Imagine* settling into a hot tub that surrounds you with the gentle pulse of multiple jets, every muscle unwinding beneath the water.
It’s the details that create a luxurious experience. Wouldn’t you love to end your day in this kind of comfort?
*Pure bliss is often found in those little upgrades you never knew you needed.*
Could a Vintage Vibe Be Your Pool Area’s Secret Charm?
If you’re an old soul at heart, embracing vintage vibes can give your indoor pool a sense of *charming* nostalgia that never goes out of style.
To instantly add some timeless character, try focusing on a few essentials:
- Retro tilework—think geometric mosaics or classic checkerboards for a splash of personality
- Classic metal fixtures like brass taps or art deco-inspired lighting
- Vintage furniture—look for weathered wood loungers or rattan accents that feel *inviting*
A little *nostalgic* flair can go a long way, whether you’re channeling the glam of the roaring twenties or the casual joy of a mid-century summer.
Let your pool area reflect your most playful side—why not give it a try?
16. Tropical Oasis
Imagine stepping into a space so lush and vibrant, you feel transported to your own tropical oasis. Every day becomes a gentle escape—no plane ticket required.
I once worked with a client who wanted her indoor pool area to feel alive and relaxing, but not overdone. We introduced a mix of broad-leafed plants and textured baskets, then complemented them with serene blue-green accents on her seating. The transformation was remarkable—her poolside now feels as inviting as a secluded island retreat!
If you’re wondering how to create that same magic, here are a few design elements to layer into your poolside retreat:
- Lush greenery: Choose split-leaf philodendron, birds-of-paradise, or areca palms to bring living, emerald texture (even faux plants work if the sunlight is shy!).
- Bold patterns: Toss in some tropical-print cushions and patterned towels—think *big leaves* and exotic blooms for that instant vacation vibe.
- Ambient lighting: Drape string lights or set lanterns around the water’s edge for an enchanting glow as evening falls, like fireflies in the rainforest.
Let your senses guide you—pick scents, sights, and textures that make you *feel* like you’re somewhere extraordinary.
Who says you can’t have paradise at home?
