When you’re designing a pool area for family use, the priorities are clear: it needs to be safe for the kids and relaxing for the grown-ups. It should be a place where everyone can enjoy time together — whether that’s watching the kids splash about, cooling off after a long day, or lounging by the water on the weekend.
Creating a poolside area that strikes the right balance doesn’t need to be complicated. With the right layout, materials, and design choices, your backyard can become a hub of fun and calm for all ages — without compromising on safety or comfort.
Here’s how to make it work.
1. Start With a Safe Pool Layout
Safety should always come first, particularly when you’ve got young children. A safe layout begins with clear zones and good visibility.
- Position the seating area so adults can keep an eye on swimmers at all times.
- Avoid blind spots behind walls, structures, or landscaping.
- Include wide steps or a shallow ledge in the pool for young kids learning to swim.
- Ensure there’s easy access between the house and pool without slippery surfaces.
Fencing is a must — make sure it complies with local safety regulations, including self-closing gates and childproof latches. Frameless glass is a popular option that allows clear views across the pool without blocking your line of sight.
2. Choose Family-Friendly Surface Materials
The surface around your fibreglass pools perth needs to be comfortable to walk on, especially for little ones, and safe when wet.
Look for materials that are:
- Non-slip — to prevent falls when kids run or jump around (as they inevitably will).
- Heat-resistant — so no burnt feet during summer.
- Durable — able to handle water, sunscreen spills, and high foot traffic.
Great options include exposed aggregate concrete, textured pavers, or composite decking. Choose light colours to reflect heat and reduce glare.
3. Create Distinct Areas for Play and Relaxation
It helps to separate the active zones from the relaxing ones. Kids can have their space to splash and play, while parents have a shaded area to unwind or supervise from a distance.
Consider setting up:
- A shallow splash zone for little swimmers to play safely.
- A lounge area with outdoor seating, umbrellas or a pergola, and a clear view of the water.
- A lawn or paved play space for dry games, snacks, or a break from the pool.
Separating these zones also helps reduce clutter and keeps pool toys from overtaking the entire backyard.
4. Include Comfortable Seating for Adults
Make the pool area a space parents want to spend time in, not just supervise from. Comfortable, shaded seating can make all the difference.
Options include:
- Outdoor lounges or cushioned chairs under a pergola or umbrella.
- Built-in bench seating around the pool’s edge, with weatherproof cushions.
- A daybed or hammock nearby for quiet moments.
Opt for materials that can handle wet swimmers, sunlight, and the occasional spilled drink. Removable covers or quick-dry fabrics are ideal.
5. Add Shade That Works for Everyone
Kids need shade to protect from sunburn, and parents need a cool space to relax. Providing sun protection is a key part of making the poolside safe and inviting.
Consider:
- Retractable awnings or shade sails over the pool and lounge areas.
- Trees or tall plants for natural shade and privacy.
- Permanent structures like pergolas or gazebos for consistent shelter.
Make sure shaded areas don’t compromise visibility — clear sightlines to the pool should always be maintained.
6. Include Storage for Pool Gear and Toys
A clutter-free pool area is safer and more relaxing. Wet towels, inflatable toys, and sunscreen bottles can quickly take over the space without dedicated storage.
Options include:
- Waterproof storage boxes or benches for toys and floaties.
- Hooks for towels and wet gear.
- Wall-mounted organisers for pool chemicals and maintenance tools (out of kids’ reach).
Easy access helps keep the space tidy and reduces trip hazards. It also teaches kids to pack up when pool time is over.
7. Incorporate Soft Lighting for Evening Use
Lighting not only adds atmosphere, it keeps the area safe for early morning or evening swims.
Some ideas to consider:
- LED strip lighting along steps, paths, or seating edges.
- Underwater lights for the pool itself.
- Solar garden lights to softly illuminate pathways and surrounding plants.
Use warm, soft tones to create a relaxing feel, while ensuring key areas like walkways and the pool edge are well lit.
8. Choose Low-Maintenance Landscaping
Busy families don’t want to spend all weekend trimming hedges and pulling weeds. Stick to a low-maintenance landscape plan that’s still inviting and safe for children.
- Use hardy native plants or drought-tolerant varieties.
- Avoid plants that drop lots of leaves or attract bees.
- Use mulch, pebbles, or paving to reduce lawn space and prevent muddy patches.
Keep taller plants away from pool edges to maintain clear visibility and reduce debris in the water.
9. Make Room for a Dining or BBQ Area
Food and family time go hand in hand. An outdoor dining setting or built-in BBQ area near the pool lets parents relax while cooking and keeps the fun going long after swimming ends.
Set up close to shade, and include a fridge or esky nearby so drinks and snacks are easy to grab. This reduces traffic in and out of the house and keeps wet footprints off the floors.
10. Involve the Whole Family in Design Decisions
Kids will be more likely to follow rules and look after the space if they feel involved. Let them help choose colours, furniture, or storage solutions. Ask what features they’d like, and factor that into your plan (within reason).
This helps create a shared sense of ownership and pride — making the space more enjoyable for everyone.
Final Thoughts
A family pool area should be more than just functional — it should feel like your own little backyard retreat. By prioritising safety, comfort, and ease of use, you can build a poolside that meets everyone’s needs, from toddler splash time to adult relaxation.
It doesn’t need to be fancy or complicated. With the right layout, surfaces, and thoughtful design touches, you can have a space where the kids are entertained and safe, and parents get a much-needed spot to unwind.
