Safety first around the pool, but make style a close second
There’s nothing more refreshing than taking a dip in a pool on a hot summer day.
With public pools open but pandemic anxiety still a factor, backyard pools are surging in popularity. Pool sales are up and companies that would have installed all their projects by the end of July are booked to complete work well into the fall. I’m hoping there are a few friends who might be part of this plan; and I hope I get on their guest lists.
For those of us without the backyard space (or budgets), there’s always the lawn sprinkler or a bucket of cold water. For all my friends planning their pool projects (or for those of us who just want the look), here are a few stylish ideas to incorporate into your design and that keep pool safety in mind, as well as accessories sure to make a splash.
LIGHTING
Lighting around the pool is a many-layered thing: Illuminate the property boundaries with perimeter lighting (think wall sconce level, about five- to sixfeet high); highlight walkways and steps with ground-level lighting; then add ambient lighting like tealights and hurricane lanterns (I am a huge fan of nonflame LED candles for safety).
It’s easy to go from sundown to dark without noticing the difference in fading light, so timers are a great way to ensure the lights come on as the party moves into the night (especially the lights in and directly around the pool).
Want to create a nocturnal resort-like atmosphere? Install multiple sconce lights at regular intervals along fences and walls to surround the pool area with a glow. Similar to indoors, accents of black or gold are on trend for outside lighting, too, creating cohesive flow between indoors and out.
SAFE ENTERTAINING
Poolside entertaining — with safe physical distancing, of course — is a must, but be smart and use shatterproof glassware and serving items. Safe and reusable melamine and plastic come in many colours and styles to create favourite looks. Go for the look of hand-painted Tuscan earthenware for a Mediterranean feel or woven bamboo designs for a South Pacific vibe.
Outdoor carpet runners help reduce slips and falls around pool decks: look for runners with a rubber-grip bottom.
They also make great additional seating: layer carpets over the grass with some cushions and you’ve got your very own magic carpet picnic blanket to keep guests safely distanced around the pool.
Free-standing umbrellas provide movable shade during sunny days and can offer privacy from neighbouring backyards when snuggling by the pool at night. Match the fabric of your umbrellas to the fabric choices in outdoor pool furniture to create a calming, monochromatic effect that allows the pool to be the centre of your outdoor entertaining space.
FURNISHINGS
If space allows, loungers are the choice seating for relaxing by the pool. I always recommend large lounge chairs with ottomans to create a lounger effect. That way if you need seating for larger parties (when larger gatherings are allowed), both the chairs and ottomans can double your seating capacity, yet you can still luxuriously lounge away a quiet pool day.
The trend in outdoor furniture (again, like inside furniture) is toward large and super comfortable with thick sink-into cushions. Keep fabrics neutral (like taupe, grey or navy) for a high-end resort look; go for bright colours, patterns and white for a tropical or nautical feel.
Looking for inspiration? Take it from your pool surroundings.
If you’ve got natural stone, slate or brick, pick up those colours as a neutral for furnishings.
If you’ve got pale concrete, a bright blue pool liner or white siding on your home, opt for crisp, clean or bright colours.
Do you have a decor dilemma or want to give feedback? You can email Karl at Karl.Lohnes@TVA.ca. Karl Lohnes has worked as a home decor specialist and product designer for 25 years.