There is a Pool for Every Yard, Really!

Oct 14, 2015 / by Aaron Steele

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a swimming pool but hesitated because your yard sloped, shed your apprehension. Constructing a custom pool on a steep incline is not the least bit uncommon. With the help of a pool builder, the pool of your dreams will become a reality—it’s likely not even as expensive as you think.
Together with a professional, you can determine if simple grading is feasible for the construction process to begin. Depending on the regulations of your city or county, you may need to present blueprints and other documentation for approval. From there, you can determine how much of the natural landscape you’re able to modify and draw plans for the remaining land.
Pool and Deck FeaturesQuite commonly, sloped-yard pools are enhanced by gorgeous features such as an elevated deck—perfect for a grilling station and chic patio furniture.
Waterfalls are aesthetically appealing while also solving the problem of steep terrain that is otherwise in the way of your finished project. Luckily, there are numerous options for waterfalls based on what the topography necessitates. You may opt for a simple waterfall spilling from vertical stone tiles, or you may have to “build up” around the pool with a massive rock feature or multi-level water cascades.

Building a pool in a sloping yard also requires meticulous planning for the elements. Tropical trees, large boulders, and groundcover plants are crucial to absorbing and redirecting running water and debris. Consider pool features that serve the overall space both functionally and artistically.

Tall stone or glass walls make for a modern look and are ideal for small spaces and urban themes. You might choose to add a hidden staircase that leads down to the pool. Don’t think of walls as a hindrance to your vision; rather, use them to your advantage to create a clean, crisp design that showcases your appreciation for architecture.
Practical Pool TypesMuch like decks, spas are a great way to break up multiple levels while maximizing your space and presenting the illusion of a larger, more luxurious backyard pool area. Large or small, a spa might be the most ideal solution to blank spaces on the blueprint and allow for year-round swimming and entertaining.

Infinity edge pools create the illusion of a never-ending stream of water—making them the perfect choice for hillsides. The water collects in a reservoir (hidden from the naked eye), allowing for a practical solution to steeper gradients. Many homeowners opt to build lowered patios so the pool sits behind them while they lounge. Others work with the existing topography to build a high wall against the pool with an infinity waterfall.
Sloping yards, even those on particularly steep hillsides, don’t have to thwart your plans of having a beautiful backyard oasis. In fact, they entail little more than attention to detail, trusted ingenuity, and guidance from a professional builder.

Written by Aaron SteeleAaron is the Digital Marketing Manager for Latham Pool Products. Prior to realizing his dream of working in the swimming pool industry, he spent many years in the software and advertising world as a pixel pusher and script junkie. Aaron is an avid guitar player, weekend novelist, in-home libation manufacturer (aka. Homebrewer) and travel enthusiast. He has lived in exotic locations, climbed Mt. Fuji, swam in the open ocean with sharks, backpacked across Europe, skied the Swiss Alps, dined with the Dalai Lama, survived in a far east jungle for a week with nothing but a poncho and a machete and is currently learning to play the Didgeridoo. All true.

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