Landscape Design for Pool: Top Trends and Cost Tips | 2025 Guide

Why Your Pool Needs the Right Landscape Design

A great pool is only as beautiful as the space around it. Whether you’re building a new pool or reimagining your current setup, landscape design for pool plays a crucial role in turning your backyard into a stunning retreat. Thoughtful landscaping boosts your pool area’s beauty. It also adds comfort, safety, and functionality. A fantastic poolside area can help you relax. It can also raise your home’s resale value and make it safer for family and friends.

Good landscape design can turn your outdoor space into a beautiful oasis. It combines looks with practical use. Choose a design that fits your style and needs. Options range from tropical havens to sleek minimalist spaces. Also, adding plants, seating areas, and smart lighting boosts the vibe. It makes your pool area feel like a real part of your home.

In this blog, we’ll look at popular pool landscape styles. We’ll also share budget-friendly landscaping ideas. Plus, we’ll discuss tools that pros use. Finally, we’ll offer tips for planning and budgeting your pool area makeover. Let’s dive in!

Popular Styles of Landscape Design for Pools in the U.S.

The right pool landscaping style can transform a regular backyard into a stunning retreat. When planning your landscape design for a pool, it’s essential to consider both beauty and function. Here are some of the most popular landscape design trends in the U.S. that can elevate your pool area:

1. Tropical Oasis

Imagine lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and palm trees surrounding your pool. A tropical oasis feels peaceful. It uses plants like hibiscus, ferns, and banana trees. Adding a water feature, like a waterfall or small stream, boosts the tropical vibe. For a simple touch, add tiki torches and bamboo furniture.

Simple Ideas:

• Use bold, tropical plants like palm trees or ferns around the pool. Large palms and ferns love warm weather. They add vibrant greenery and a tropical vibe to your pool area. This boosts its natural beauty.
• Add a hammock or lounge chair for relaxation. Place them near the pool. This creates a nice spot to lounge and enjoy the tropical vibe.
• Add privacy plants like tall bamboo to create a secluded feel. Bamboo gives natural cover, turning your pool area into a quiet retreat. It shields the space from view and adds a touch of tranquillity.

2. Modern Minimal

If you like clean lines and sleek designs, modern, minimal style focuses on simplicity. Concrete, stone, and glass are common materials used in modern pool landscaping. This style makes bold statements. It uses a few carefully chosen elements for a polished, refined look.

Simple Ideas:

• Use geometric patterns and symmetry around the pool area. Add clean lines and balanced layouts to the pool deck and landscaping. This will create a modern and eye-catching space.
• Use minimalist furniture in neutral tones. Pick sleek, simple pieces in colours like grey or beige. This keeps the focus on the pool and landscaping.
• Think about adding a sleek, modern fountain. A minimalist fountain boosts the pool’s contemporary feel. It brings soothing sounds and modern elegance while keeping the space open.

3. Desert Xeriscape

Desert xeriscape could be perfect if you want easy landscaping with a natural look. This style uses drought-tolerant plants such as succulents, cacti, and agave. Gravel, rocks, and decorative stones help reduce water use. They also add texture.

Simple Ideas:

• Choose succulents, yuccas, and cacti around your pool. These plants need little water and grow well in dry areas. They add colour and texture. This makes them great for a desert-themed poolside.
• Use desert rocks, sand, or pebbles for landscaping. These natural materials give a desert vibe. They add a rugged texture that fits well with nearby plants and boosts the overall look.
• Install a dry creek bed or a rustic stone pathway. A dry creek bed adds a natural, flowing look. It can enhance the landscape. On the other hand, a stone pathway gives a charming and practical touch to the poolside design.

4. Rustic or Natural

Rustic or natural pool landscapes are all about blending seamlessly with nature. Think natural stone, wood elements, and wild, untamed plantings. The goal is to create an organic look that feels connected to the natural environment, often with winding pathways and stone accents.

Simple Ideas:

• Add natural stone or wood decking around the pool. These materials mix well with the area. They give a rustic, organic look and offer a strong, slip-resistant surface.
• Use plants such as lavender, rosemary, and wild grasses for a natural look. These harsh, fragrant plants boost texture and smell. They enhance the natural vibe, are low-maintenance, and tolerate drought well.
• Add a rustic pergola or shaded seating area for charm. A pergola gives shade and creates a cosy retreat. It adds a relaxing feel and complements the natural landscape around your pool.

By incorporating these popular styles into your landscape design for a pool, you can create a poolside retreat that suits your personal taste while enhancing your backyard’s aesthetic and functionality. Don’t forget to choose the right style that matches both your environment and your lifestyle!

Pool Landscaping on a Budget: Yes, it’s possible!

Achieving a beautiful landscape design for a pool on a budget is entirely possible with some creative thinking and cost-effective solutions. Love DIY projects or want to save money? Here are some budget-friendly ideas to refresh your pool area:

1. Gravel and Stepping Stones:

Gravel is a cheap and easy-to-care-for material. You can use it in fun ways around the pool. It’s great for filling gaps between big stones. It also gives a natural, beach-like vibe. Using gravel with stepping stones boosts the appearance and makes your poolside easier to walk on.

Opt for pea gravel or crushed stone for a more polished, modern finish. The gravel’s texture contrasts nicely with the clean lines of the stepping stones. This adds both function and visual appeal without high costs.

2. Container Plants and Vertical Gardens:

A cost-effective way to add greenery to your pool area is with container plants. You can place potted plants on the deck, near the pool, or even hang them from walls or railings for a dynamic look. Vertical gardens are a great choice. You can use wall-mounted planters or trellises.

They let you grow plants like ivy, bougainvillaea, or cascading vines. This saves space and keeps a lush, green look. You won’t need to dig up the yard or spend a lot on garden beds. Plus, these plants are easy to move and maintain.

3. Mulch Beds and Solar Lighting:

Mulch is an affordable landscaping material. It retains moisture and suppresses weeds, which helps your garden. Make small mulch beds around your pool. Plant drought-tolerant plants like lavender, rosemary, or ornamental grasses. This way, you save water and enhance your landscape.

Install solar lights around your mulch beds or along pathways. They will make your pool area more beautiful at night. Solar lights are simple to set up. They are suitable for the environment and can lower your electricity costs. Plus, they help create a calming atmosphere.

4. Prefab Seating and Privacy Screens:

Prefab seating adds comfort to your pool without breaking the bank. You can find affordable outdoor furniture. Look for modular seating, lounge chairs, or pre-assembled benches. This is an excellent option for people on a budget who still want a polished, professional look.

Privacy screens made of bamboo or wood are a budget-friendly way to boost the privacy and cosiness of your pool area. You can install these screens around the pool or along the fence. They block neighbouring views at a lower cost than building a wall or hiring a contractor.

Reusing or Repurposing Materials:

One of the most effective ways to save money is to reuse materials you already have. You can reuse old bricks, timber, or stones from past landscaping projects. They help give your pool area a fresh look. You can use these materials to make pathways, edging, or small seating areas. This can lower your material costs.

Using repurposed materials adds a personal touch to your pool landscaping. It also helps the environment by cutting down on waste. You can use repurposed items to create small features. Try making planters, raised beds, or a DIY fire pit area.

By combining these affordable ideas, you can create a stunning and functional landscape design for pool on a budget. You can choose a minimalist design or a lush garden look. These solutions let you be creative and save money.

Tools of the Trade: What Tools Do Landscape Designers Use for Pool Design

To create a beautiful landscape design for pool areas, designers use many tools. These tools help bring their ideas to life. These tools ensure both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Let’s explore the main tools used in the process.

1. Design Software

Design software is crucial for landscape design for pool projects. Tools like SketchUp, AutoCAD, and VizTerra help designers create precise digital models of pool areas. This lets them plan everything before starting any physical work.

• SketchUp: This software offers an easy way to create detailed 3D models. It’s great for making simple pool designs that improve any outdoor area efficiently and beautifully.
• AutoCAD: This well-respected tool is used to create precise 2D and 3D plans. It helps architects and engineers create precise designs for various projects.
• VizTerra: With a focus on landscaping, VizTerra shines in pool area design. They transform outdoor spaces into beautiful retreats. Their work blends looks, function, and care for the environment.

2. On-Ground Tools

Once the digital plan is set, landscape designers rely on on-ground tools to bring the design to life. These tools help prepare the land and install features like walkways, decks, and pools, making the design a reality.

• Shovels: These tools are crucial for excavating areas designated for pools and for creating planting beds to enhance your garden’s beauty and functionality.
• Compactors: These machines play a vital role in stabilizing soil, ensuring that pathways remain firm and long-lasting, and providing reliability and safety for all who walk on them.
• Edging tools: They are essential for establishing sharp, well-defined borders in landscaping, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your garden and ensuring that plant areas remain tidy and organized.

3. Smart Tools

Innovative tools have revolutionized pool design by offering new technologies for mapping and planning. Drones and other advanced tools provide valuable data to enhance accuracy and planning during the early stages of a landscape design project.

• Drones: Utilize advanced aerial mapping technology to conduct precise site analysis and efficient planning, ensuring optimal results for various projects and enhancing decision-making capabilities throughout the development process.
• iScape: Experience the power of augmented reality software designed to help users visualize and interact with innovative landscape designs, transforming ideas into realistic representations that facilitate informed choices and creative exploration.
• Planner 5D: This user-friendly tool simplifies the process of planning pools and landscapes in stunning 3D, allowing users to easily create, modify, and visualize their outdoor spaces with remarkable detail and accuracy.

With the right combination of design software, on-ground tools, and innovative smart tools, landscape designers can ensure a flawless landscape design for pool areas, turning any backyard into a functional and visually stunning space.

Landscape Design Cost Breakdown (By Project Type)

When planning your landscape design for a pool, understanding the associated costs is essential. Costs can change due to project complexity, materials, and if you hire pros or go DIY. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you budget for your dream backyard oasis.

1. Basic Design Plan ($300–$800)

A basic design plan typically involves a simple 2D or 3D layout for your pool area and surrounding landscape. A landscape designer usually creates this. They suggest plants, features, and layout, but do not handle the installation. It’s an excellent choice for homeowners. They get a clear plan for their landscaping project. Plus, they don’t have to spend money on complete installation services.

Additional Notes:

• This plan works well if you want to use it over time or if you know the materials and plants you need.
• Some designers have virtual consultations. Others offer online platforms with design templates. These options can save money but are still very helpful.
• A 3D rendering lets you see the project in detail. This helps with decision-making and planning.

2. Full-Service Installation ($5,000–$15,000+)

A full-service installation package covers it all. It includes landscaping, hardscaping, plants, water features, lighting, and irrigation systems. This service is perfect for homeowners. It offers a complete, professional design for outdoor spaces. The cost of a full-service install can change a lot. It depends on the project’s size, features, materials, and labour needed.

Extra Notes:

• A landscape architect or designer will assist with every part of the project. They will handle the design, select materials, and manage contractors for installation.
• Premium projects will feature top-quality materials. This includes custom stonework, luxury water features (like fountains and waterfalls), and high-end lighting systems. These elements can create dramatic effects in your pool area at night.
• This is the best choice if you want expert help. It ensures the project is done well, looks good, and works effectively.

Factors That Impact Cost:

• Size of the Project: Larger pool areas and expansive landscapes will increase costs.
• Quality of Materials: High-end pavers, natural stone, and imported plants will be more expensive.
• Design Complexity: Adding features such as retaining walls, intricate water features, or custom lighting systems significantly increases the cost.

3. DIY Cost ($500–$3,000)

A DIY landscape design lets you get involved. You can buy and install materials on your own. This approach can be much more affordable, but it requires time, skill, and effort. You’ll mainly pay for materials, rentals, and tools. This includes tasks like digging, laying pavers, planting, and maybe building small water features.

Additional Notes:

• The costs of a DIY project will depend on the materials you choose. For example, using locally sourced plants or recycled materials can help lower your expenses.
• DIY landscaping often involves renting heavy machinery, such as digging equipment for pool preparation or compactors for laying pavers, which can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 a day.
• Online tutorials or DIY guides can be invaluable if you lack experience but want to tackle parts of the project yourself.

Tips to Save on Landscape Design Costs

• Phased Installation: One of the most effective ways to save money is by breaking your project into stages. This way, you can manage costs over time without overwhelming your budget.
• Use Native Plants. Opting for native plants is a great way to cut down on costs. These plants typically need less maintenance and water, making them more sustainable in the long run. They also thrive in local soil and climate conditions, which can reduce the need for fertilizers or special care.
• DIY Elements: Taking on certain parts of the project yourself can help reduce labor costs. For example, consider planting your trees and shrubs or installing simple hardscaping features like walkways or garden borders. There are many resources online to help you navigate DIY landscape installation.
• Choose More Affordable Materials. Instead of using high-end materials for every part of your landscape, consider budget-friendly alternatives. For example, stamped concrete can mimic the look of natural stone at a fraction of the cost. Similarly, artificial turf is a low-maintenance alternative to real grass that can save on water bills over time.

AI Landscape Design: The Future Is Here

The world of landscape design has evolved tremendously in recent years. From drawing plans on paper to using sophisticated software tools, technology has changed the way we approach outdoor design. Now, with the advent of AI landscape design, the possibilities are even more exciting. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, homeowners, designers, and landscapers can streamline the design process, reduce costs, and create stunning, customized landscapes faster than ever before.

1. Top AI Landscape Design Tools

(i) iScape (Augmented Reality)

iScape is an augmented reality (AR) app that allows users to visualize landscape designs in their own space before making any physical changes. Using AI technology enables users to take a picture of their outdoor area and virtually design it with a range of plants, structures, and landscaping elements.

You can view your landscape transformation in real-time, helping you understand how your design ideas will look in your actual environment. This is great for ensuring that your vision matches the reality of the space.

(ii) Planner 5D

Planner 5D is a tool that allows you to design interiors and exteriors with high-quality visualizations. Its AI-powered features help generate design options, recommend layouts, and even suggest plants and materials based on your preferences and space.

This tool is perfect for those who want to create a complete landscape design, from garden layouts to 3D models of hardscapes. You can experiment with various styles and see them come to life in realistic renderings.

(iii) SmartDraw

SmartDraw is a diagramming tool with AI-powered design assistance. While not solely focused on landscape design, it can be used to create professional-level outdoor plans, including gardens, patios, and pool areas. It allows you to build scalable plans, draw precise measurements, and place features easily with drag-and-drop functionality.

SmartDraw simplifies the design process by offering templates for landscaping plans, along with real-time collaboration features that make it a great choice for team projects.

2. Human vs. AI Landscape Design: Pros and Cons

(i) Human Landscape Designers

Pros:

• Personal Touch: Human designers can offer personalized recommendations and adjust the design based on their experience and local knowledge of soil types, weather conditions, and plant compatibility.
• Creativity and Flexibility: Designers can think outside the box, adapt to changes, and tackle unique challenges that require creative problem-solving.
• Client collaboration: Human designers can have direct interactions with clients, ensuring the design process aligns closely with the client’s vision, needs, and budget.

Cons:

• Time-consuming: Designing a landscape takes time, many hours of planning, measuring, and adjusting designs. The back-and-forth with clients can also extend timelines.
• Cost: Hiring a landscape designer can be expensive, with high-end designs and custom projects costing thousands of dollars.

(ii) AI Landscape Designers

Pros:

• Speed: AI tools can generate designs instantly. With the right input, AI can quickly show design options and AI-powered tools like Planner 5D can even recommend plants and features based on your preferences.
• Cost-Effective: Since AI tools eliminate the need for a human designer, the costs are significantly lower. Many AI-based platforms are available for a one-time or subscription-based fee, making them affordable for homeowners.
• Customization: AI tools often feature customization options based on machine learning that can adapt to your preferences and suggest changes as the design evolves.
• Consistency: AI tools can quickly spot design flaws, maintain consistency, and provide recommendations based on the space’s layout and user input.

Cons:

• Limited Creativity: AI lacks the creative flexibility of a human designer. It may struggle with complex or non-standard designs that require improvisation or unique problem-solving.
• Technology Dependence: Since AI relies on algorithms and templates, it may not always account for every nuanced detail of a space, such as sunlight, wind patterns, or microclimates that a human designer would consider.

How AI tools save costs and speed up planning.

AI landscape design tools can significantly save costs and speed up planning in several ways:

1. Instant Design Creation

AI can instantly generate 3D visualizations and plan layouts based on input, eliminating the time-consuming manual drafting required by traditional designers. This speeds up the initial design process, letting you move forward with your project faster.

2. Cost Efficiency

With AI tools, you don’t have to pay for a full-time designer. Many of these tools offer affordable subscriptions or one-time purchases. For example, tools like Planner 5D provide robust features for a fraction of the cost compared to hiring a professional.

3. Automated Plant and Material Recommendations

AI can suggest plants and materials based on the specific climate and soil conditions of your area. This saves you time researching plants and avoids costly mistakes that could arise from choosing the wrong species or materials.

4. Error-Free Designs

By using AI tools, you reduce the chances of human error. AI can provide accurate measurements and dimensions, helping you avoid costly rework if something goes wrong.

5. Phased Implementation

AI tools like iScape allow you to test and modify designs in stages, letting you start small and gradually build the landscape over time without needing to redo entire plans.

AI landscape design is a powerful tool to create stunning outdoor spaces faster, cheaper, and more efficiently. Tools like iScape, Planner 5D, and SmartDraw help homeowners, designers, and landscapers design more easily. AI tools save time and money, offering customized, cost-effective, and speedy designs.

Bonus Tips: Low-Maintenance Pool Landscaping Ideas

Creating a gorgeous poolside retreat doesn’t mean you need to commit to hours of weekend yard work. In fact, with the right choices, your landscape design for the pool can be as easy to care for as it is beautiful. If you’re dreaming of a relaxing oasis, not a never-ending chore, these low-maintenance pool landscaping ideas are just what you need.

1. Choose hardy, drought-tolerant plants.

Skip the high-maintenance tropicals and lean into plants that thrive with minimal care. Succulents like agave, aloe vera, and sedum are incredibly resilient, and they bring texture and sculptural interest to your landscape. Pair them with ornamental grasses like fountain grass, blue fescue, or muhly grass for movement and colour that lasts all year. These plants require little watering, don’t shed much debris, and are naturally pest-resistant, a win-win for pool owners.

2. Swap Out Grass for Stone or Pavers

While grass may feel nice underfoot, it can be a hassle near pools. Grass clippings get in the water, muddy footprints ruin clean decks, and maintenance adds up fast. Instead, consider natural stone, concrete pavers, gravel, or decomposed granite. These materials create clean, structured lines that are modern and pool-friendly. They’re also more durable under heavy foot traffic and need little to no upkeep.

3. Install a Drip Irrigation System

Efficient and easy, drip irrigation targets the base of your plants without wasting water. It reduces evaporation, prevents runoff into your pool, and avoids spraying your hardscape. Set it on a timer, and you can forget it’s there.

4. Use heat-reducing natural materials.

Concrete and artificial surfaces can absorb and radiate heat, making your pool area uncomfortable on hot days. Instead, go for flagstone, travertine, or light-coloured pavers. These materials stay cooler underfoot, reduce glare, and blend beautifully with your natural surroundings.

With these tips, you can create a stylish, serene, and low-maintenance pool landscape that saves you time, money, and stress, leaving more hours to actually enjoy your pool.

Final Checklist for Poolside Landscaping

Before you dive into your landscape design for the pool, it’s smart to have a solid plan in place. Poolside landscaping isn’t just about picking pretty plants or laying down pavers; it’s about creating a space that’s beautiful, functional, and sustainable over time. Here’s your final checklist to make sure no detail gets overlooked:

1. Set a Clear Budget

Know your limits before the first shovel hits the dirt. Whether you’re going full DIY or hiring a landscape designer, outline what you’re willing to spend on plants, materials, labour, and tech tools. Keep a buffer for unexpected costs (because they always happen!).

2. Consider Sunlight, Wind, and Drainage

Not all spots in your yard are created equal. Take time to observe how sunlight hits your pool area, where the wind blows, and how water drains after rain or irrigation. This affects plant choice, seating placement, and even the longevity of your hardscape materials.

3. Think Long-Term Maintenance

Ask yourself: “How much upkeep do I want?” Choose low-maintenance landscaping elements like drought-tolerant plants, hardscape paths instead of grass, and automatic irrigation. Your future self will thank you.

4. Use a Design App or Consult a Pro

If you’re unsure where to start, leverage AI landscape design tools like iScape or Planner 5D. They help visualize your space and prevent costly mistakes. For more complex projects, hiring a landscape designer ensures your vision comes to life efficiently and safely.

5. Layer in Plants, Hardscape, and Lighting

Great landscaping is all about balance. Use a mix of:

• Incorporate a variety of plants that provide vibrant colours and interesting textures, enhancing the overall aesthetics and creating a lively atmosphere in your outdoor space.
• Utilize hardscape elements such as pavers, retaining walls, and pathways to create a structured layout, providing stability and defining different areas within your landscape design.
• Install strategic lighting to enhance usability during evening hours, illuminating pathways and highlighting key focal points, transforming your outdoor area into an inviting space for gatherings and relaxation.
• This combination adds depth, improves safety, and turns your poolside into a true backyard paradise.

With this checklist in hand, you’re not just landscaping, you’re strategically designing a pool area that fits your lifestyle, budget, and aesthetics. Happy planning!

Conclusion: Your dream pool needs the right frame.

A stunning pool is only half the story; what surrounds it can make or break the entire vibe. From understanding the landscape design cost to exploring the magic of AI landscape design, you’ve got the tools, tips, and tricks to turn your backyard into a true oasis. We covered the essentials like budgeting, planning, and choosing between professional help or DIY. You also picked up some low-maintenance landscaping ideas that will keep your weekends free and your yard looking sharp.

Whether you’re going high-end with full-service installation or crafting a serene space on a shoestring budget, your landscape design for the pool deserves just as much attention as the water itself.

Ready to transform your pool area? Try out these innovative design ideas or connect with a professional landscape designer near you to bring your vision to life.