5 Pool Landscaping Design Trends

Imagine lounging at the pool all day long in the comfort and convenience of your own backyard. As warmer weather approaches, we are thinking about this more and more! Although you have probably been browsing different swimming pool styles, what about your pool landscaping design? To make the best oasis, you need to consider how everything will look together as one cohesive layout.

Start dreaming up your ideal pool landscaping design with these 5 trends that are here to stay! Share on X

Pool Landscaping Design: What’s In and What’s Out

Whether you can’t decide on a pool landscape design or this is the first time you have even thought about it, this guide is for you! Here are 5 things to include in your pool’s plant arrangement:  

  1. Less is More
  2. Include Color
  3. Don’t Overcrowd
  4. A Lucious Lawn  
  5. Low Maintenance

1) Less is More

Doesn’t this seem to be on trend for almost everything these days? But, it’s very true. Trying to cram in all of your favorite plants and flowers won’t only look stuffy, it won’t be functional either. Go for simple plants that won’t overgrow your space yet fill in the empty spots to make for one classy-looking yard.

2) Include Pops of Color

You don’t want to stare at a sea of green with only a color contrast from the bright blue pool water. Switch out flowers every 3-4 months with colors that represent each season. Vibrant orange and yellows might be better suited in the summer while soft pinks whites could be used in the spring.

Whatever you choose, don’t use flowers that will shed a ton and place them far enough away from the pool so petals don’t constantly fall in the water.

3) Don’t Overcrowd Your Space

It’s easy to bring full-bodied plants into your space, but keep functionality in mind. Will you be able to move around large trees easily? Once a plant grows, will be in the way of an outdoor fire pit or steps to the pool? If so, consider a different spot.

Pro Tip: Make your space seem even larger with a patio cover or pergola where guests can sit, eat, and mingle.

4) Invest in a Lucious Lawn

Doesn’t everyone want a heavenly green lawn? Real grass can be hard to maintain and there will no doubt be times where brown patches show through. But, by spending quality time giving it the love and attention it needs, a luscious yard is obtainable.   

If you really want to avoid the hassle of lawn maintenance, invest in synthetic turf. It’s beautiful year-round and you never have to cut or water grass again!

5) Low Maintenance  

Most people don’t like to spend hours working outside. (We would rather lay poolside!) So, get plants that don’t require a ton of maintenance like evergreens with grass-like features that don’t need pruning. Trees with pine needles, fruits or nuts should stay in a different area of your yard, away from the pool. Although delicious to eat, you don’t want to spend time fishing out apples and pecan shells.

A Pool Area You Can Be Proud Of

When envisioning your pool, remember to think about the landscaping elements as well. Use these tips to get you started in the right direction and consult a local backyard design expert for sound advice.

Want to leave us a comment about your landscape design ideas? Join the conversation!

Why You Should Build a Pool House, Creekstone Outdoor Living, Houston, TX

Why You Should Build a Pool House Near Your Pool

In Houston, swimming pools are almost a necessity to have in the summertime. If you already have a pool, you’ve probably seen custom features that can be added to make your pool more enjoyable. Have you considered building a pool house to enhance your outdoor space?

Summer will be here soon! Have you thought about adding a #PoolHouse to your backyard? Here's why you should! Share on X

A pool house can make your backyard feel like a luxurious resort. There are a number of ways that you can use the space. You can customize your pool house to match the overall theme of your backyard. A builder will work with you to make your vision a reality. Here are a few ways pool houses are fun and functional:

A Pool House is Great for Storage

Owning a pool means using lots of tools to keep it clean. You can easily store nets, chemicals, pool toys, and more in a pool house to keep them out of sight and away from weather damage. Pool houses are also useful for storing outdoor furniture in case of a storm or flood.

ProTip: When building your pool house, consider adding special shelves or cabinets to store extra cleaning supplies or towels.

Serves as a Convenient Changing Room

Rather than your guests entering your home after a fun swim– dripping wet and ready to change, your pool house serves as a changing area instead. You’ll be glad you don’t have to dry your floors or risk someone slipping in your home. Pool houses can be carpeted to absorb water and prevent wet feet from slipping. Add an outdoor shower so it’s easy to rinse off before getting in and out of the water.

Can Be Used as a Guest House

Pool houses are great for entertaining friends and family. Use the space for a guest house complete with a mini kitchen, bed or futon. A small bathroom would be useful for anyone using your pool. You can add a mini fridge for easy access to snacks and beverages without having to go inside your home! Your guests will also appreciate the privacy of a separate space if they will be staying overnight.

Use a Reputable Houston Pool Builder

Read online reviews to find a local outdoor design team you can trust. Ask to view a gallery and make sure you sign a contract. When you imagine your pool house, think about the specific details you’d like included in its design and features.

Contact a design expert to get started immediately!

3 Reasons to Invest in a Patio Cover for Your Pool

Summer in Houston will be here before you know it. Is your outdoor living area in need of a patio cover? Don’t wait until the outside temperatures start rising– learn why a patio cover is a great and necessary choice for your pool.

Looking forward to using your pool this summer? Learn why you should invest in a pool cover to stay cool during Houston summers. Share on X

Why Do I Need a Patio Cover for my Outdoor Space?

Investing in a patio cover for your pool will provide comfort and shade from the intense summer sun. You can stress less about cleaning by keeping out leaves and outside debris. It will also help keep your pool at a pleasant temperature and reduce your risk of sunburn.

  1. Keep Pool Temperature Down
  2. Protect Your Pool from Gathering Debris
  3. Provide Shade While Swimming

1) Keep Pool Temperature Down

The perfect pool cover will keep your pool at a comfortable, cool temperature. Pool water that is too warm tends to be off-putting, so using a cover will protect your water from getting too much sun. Nobody wants to get in a hot pool in the middle of a hot, Texas summer day. You can feel confident your pool is always at the right temperature.

2) Protect Your Pool from Gathering Debris

Wind and rain bring in leaves, bugs, and other dirt and debris into your pool. A patio cover for your pool will act as a leaf net to make cleaning a breeze. You’ll spend less time fishing out unwanted items and more time enjoying your pool!

3) Provide Shade While Swimming

We all know Houston summers can get swelteringly hot. Don’t let the sun deter you from enjoying your pool! A swimming pool cover will reduce the number of UV rays overhead that put you at risk of sunburn. While you should always use sunblock to protect your skin, a cover for your pool will make you feel more comfortable while you’re swimming.

ProTip: When you invest in a patio cover for your pool, consult with a professional pool designer that will help you choose the right style to fit the rest of your outdoor living space.

Use an Outdoor Living Professional to Install Your Patio Cover

Rely on in-ground pool experts to give you insight on other ways to benefit from a patio cover for your pool. They will help you with a custom pool cover for a unique and beautiful addition to your outdoor space.

Contact us for a consultation to learn more about custom patio covers and the benefits of having one for your pool.

5 Essential Poolside Kitchen Appliances

Having an outdoor kitchen is a fabulous opportunity for hosting pool parties and barbecues. Whether you are hosting a neighborhood party, family get-together, or simply enjoying time with your family, it’s always a fun idea to gather outside as a group. What could make these outdoor get-togethers even more enticing? We’re glad you asked!

An outdoor kitchen brings family and friends together for food and fun. Spruce up your poolside outdoor kitchen with these ideas! Share on X

How Can I Make My Outdoor Environment Even More Fun?

Don’t be afraid to explore different ideas for your outdoor space that can contribute to poolside entertainment. These outdoor kitchen appliances will spruce up your backyard for endless enjoyment.

  1. Refrigerators
  2. Overhead fans
  3. Grill or smoker
  4. Mood lighting
  5. Consult with an Outdoor Design Expert

1) Refrigerators

In Houston, the humid weather can warm up your cold beverages quickly! With a beverage cooler or refrigerator, you won’t have to worry about serving your guests lukewarm sodas or hot waters. An outdoor refrigerator is necessary for keeping your refreshments cool.

ProTip: When you get your new outdoor refrigerator near your pool, stock it immediately so that guests can serve themselves at your next pool party!

2) Overhead Fans

The Houston humidity is unavoidable, especially during the summer months.  You can still feel comfortable in your backyard when you have overhead fans above your outdoor kitchen to help eliminate any heat accumulation. The air circulation outdoor fans provide can also contribute to fending off any flying pests like gnats or mosquitos that might flock to your outdoor kitchen in the hot summer months.

3) Outdoor Grill or Smoker

Your outdoor kitchen isn’t complete without an outdoor grill.  For some people, simply having an outdoor counter space for drinks and food is enough to entertain friends and family. For others, the enjoyment of cooking and mingling is what makes the get-together worthwhile. Grilling outdoors while being able to converse with guests is something we Texans pride ourselves on! It’s a unique experience to sit outside and smell the delicious food as it grills. An outdoor grill is a necessary addition to spruce up your backyard.

4) Mood Lighting

This idea might not be at the top of your list, but lighting goes a long way when you know you’re going to spend summer evenings by the pool. Many times, outdoor activities can go long into the evening. Wouldn’t it be perfect to have beautiful lights outside that will illuminate your surroundings? This is a great addition to any outdoor space, whether you are going to enjoy a freshly grilled meal on your patio or read a book in the solace of your porch. Mood lighting is essential to your outdoor kitchen space.

5) Consult with an Outdoor Design Expert

Outdoor design experts provide valuable insight into what is realistic for your particular space. They will listen to your wants and needs while guiding you to the best solutions for your needs. They work with you to make your dreams a reality!

Create an Incredible Outdoor Kitchen You’ll Love

You probably have ideas about how you want your outdoor kitchen to look and function. It’s important to rely on a professional outdoor living service to take your goals and show you how they can turn them into reality. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, and be clear about your vision! Your designer will be glad to get any feedback necessary to do their job right.

Join the conversation and explore what other outdoor kitchen features people have added to their outdoor spaces!

3  Fun & Functional Patio Cover Design Ideas for Hot Houston Summers

With the Texas summer season gaining upon us, you might be wishing you had a way to properly shade yourself from the heating rays! Luckily, there are plenty of options, like patio covers, to keep you and your guests cool while still enjoying your luxurious pool!

In the Houston summer weather, is it even possible to relax outdoors? With these tips, you’ll feel at ease knowing you’ve taken the time beforehand to make comfort a priority. Share on X

How can Owning a pool be so relaxing, even in the hot sun?

You can avoid the stress and sweat of being a pool owner in the spring and summer heat by providing shade from the sun with these fun ideas:

  1. Opt for a custom outdoor patio
  2. Add a fun pergola
  3. Go big with a custom built pool house

1) Opt for a Custom Outdoor Patio Cover

Take a look around your backyard and note the opportunities you might have for a custom-built outdoor patio cover. Work with a professional builder to match the colors and materials of your home with the design of your patio. Then, you can add extra features to match the space– like outdoor furniture.

2) Add a Fun Pergola

Pergolas can be efficient and festive any time of year! Enjoy the shade in your outdoor living space when you’d like, and decorate the beams with light strings or weather-resistant streamers. You can quickly drape a tarp over the top of your pergola at any sign of rain or storm.

ProTip: Not sure about how to dress up your pergola year-round? Hang some outdoor lights to brighten things up and enjoy the glow!

3) Custom Built Pool House

A custom pool house is a great addition to any outdoor space! Enclose your pool area and add furniture that doesn’t need to be weather-resistant. You will be able to enjoy your pool, rain or shine while creating the feeling of being outdoors with large windows and glass doors.

Consult with a Professional

To make your backyard dreams a reality, call a professional to discuss what can be done to design and build your custom patio cover. Explore your options and discover what appeals to you and what fits your taste. Ultimately, you won’t regret covering your patio come rain or (too much) shine!

Share your thoughts! What else can be done to cover an outdoor patio space? We’d love to hear!