When the days get longer and temperatures begin to climb, you may find yourself daydreaming about your very own backyard oasis. Whether you’re looking for a cool place to exercise, a relaxing escape, or a new way to entertain friends and family, there’s nothing better than a swimming pool. But what if you have a small backyard?
Anthony & Sylvan can help you enjoy all the benefits of pool ownership, no matter your backyard’s size or shape. You might be surprised how beautiful and functional a small pool can be! Read on to learn more about small pools that can make a big impact.
What is considered a small inground pool?
The average swimming pool is about 600 ft2, roughly the size of a small studio apartment or a spacious two-car garage. A pool with less area than that is considered small. Beyond that general definition, though, there’s a whole world of possibilities. At Anthony & Sylvan, we’ve built thousands of small pools in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and depths.
Typical dimensions of small inground pools
The most common dimensions for a small inground pool are 10 ’x 16’ or 10’ x 20’. The table below lists some other possibilities:
When planning the dimensions of your pool, determine the maximum number of people who will use it at the same time and budget about 15 square feet per person.
If you plan to exercise in your pool, you should choose a pool that is at least 4-5 feet deep; if you plan to use your pool to relax, three feet should be sufficient.
Small backyard inground pool ideas for all budgets
A small backyard mini pool may be the perfect addition to your backyard, especially when you build with concrete. Choosing concrete will ensure your pool’s durability while allowing you the flexibility to customize its shape, size, and features.
Here are some of our favorite pools for small backyards:
1. Plunge pool
Plunge pools are small and relatively deep: usually four feet or more. They tend to be simple in design, which makes them a great fit for even a tiny backyard. Because you can fully submerge yourself in a plunge pool, they are great for aquatic exercise. They’re also ideal for homeowners in very hot climates, since deeper water tends to stay cooler in the summer.
2. Geometric pool
A geometric pool is simply a pool with a defined shape, like a square, a rectangle, or a circle. Geometric pools can beautifully complement your home’s architectural style. Square and rectangular pools are especially nice for small backyards because they can fit snugly into that unused corner of your property that might otherwise be wasted space.
3. Freeform pool
Freeform pools mimic bodies of water found in nature. They look especially nice in wooded or densely landscaped backyards. Their flowing shapes make them perfect for lounging, especially because you’ll be able to fit custom features like fountains, tanning ledges, and benches into the nooks and crannies. Small freeform pools can fit into awkward spaces in your yard, and their shape may allow you to add patio furniture without crowding your deck space.
4. Modern pool
Modern pools are all about luxury and simplicity. They boast clean lines and a striking aesthetic, and they are often built to take advantage of the latest in pool technology, like water features, LED lighting, vanishing edges, and fire pits. Modern pools are designed to stand out, so they are the perfect option for an unusual space like an outdoor corridor or courtyard.
5. Turnkey pool
Turnkey pools are small, simple pools designed with economy in mind. Let’s face it: not everyone needs or wants all the bells and whistles, and in a small backyard, there may not be much room for them! If you want to construct your small pool quickly and with a minimum of fuss, a turnkey pool could be right for you.
6. Swim spa pool
If you don’t have room for a pool and a spa, why not build a pool that can do both? A swim spa is one of our favorite small backyard pool ideas. Though larger than a hot tub, a swim spa still comes with powerful jets and convenient bench seating. Swim spas can be heated year-round for relaxation and stress relief, but you can also use them unheated for a cool summertime dip.
7. Vanishing edge mini pool
Some people love having a cozy backyard, but others yearn for wide open spaces. Adding a vanishing edge to your pool can create the illusion of a larger yard, particularly if your house looks out over a natural landscape. If you want to make a big impact with a small pool, vanishing edges can take your backyard to the next level.
8. Cocktail pool (Spool)
Cocktail pools, or spools, are simply mini inground pools. Like plunge pools, cocktail pools are often rectangular, but unlike plunge pools, they are usually on the shallow side. While they aren’t ideal for exercise, they are a great option for a couple or small family who want to relax and cool off on hot summer days.
9. Small pool with beach entry or tanning ledge
What’s your favorite pool activity? If you answered “basking in the sun,” a tanning ledge or beach entry may be the perfect pool accessory for you. A tanning ledge gently slopes into the water, which makes it great for catching rays or entertaining small children and pets. It can also improve the accessibility of your pool for people with disabilities.
10. Sunken pool
A sunken pool sits completely or partially below ground level, creating a tiered effect that can add dimension and interest to even the tightest backyard space. Sunken pools can even include sunken lounge areas, sun shelves, or bars that will help you use your yard efficiently when hosting a large crowd.
11. Pools with water walls or fountains
Compact water features like cascade waterfalls, fountains, and bubblers are space-efficient ways to make your backyard feel more luxurious. Water features don’t just look great: they sound great too. Nothing is more relaxing than the sound of falling water. Adding a water feature just may make your small backyard feel like an exclusive spa!
Small inground pools FAQ
What is the smallest size for an inground pool?
Inground pools built with concrete are fully customizable, and you can pretty much go as small as you’d like. Ultra-small pools may not be a great option for large families or people who love to entertain, but they are ideal if you just want a private space where a few people can relax on a hot summer day.
Is a small inground pool worth it?
A small inground pool is worth it if your family’s lifestyle makes it possible for you to enjoy it regularly. Think realistically about your backyard space and how each member of your family wants to spend time there. If you love big pool parties, a small pool might feel limiting. If you want to preserve lots of green space for kids or pets, even a tiny cocktail pool may not make sense in your backyard. But if you want to relax, cool off, or exercise alone or with a few friends, a small pool could be just the ticket.
How much does a small inground pool cost?
Many factors affect pool construction costs: the area where you live, the topography of your backyard, the type of building material you plan to use, and how many bells and whistles you want to add to your pool so it’s difficult to provide an exact price range. To get a free estimate for your pool project, contact Anthony & Sylvan for an on-site consultation.
What type of pool is best for a small yard?
While there are many inground pool materials on the market, concrete pools are typically best for small yards. A concrete pool can be built in any shape you like, which will allow you to maximize a small or irregularly-shaped space. During a free consultation, an Anthony & Sylvan pro will create a 3D rendering of your dream pool to help you see exactly how it will fit in your yard.
Are small inground pools easier to maintain?
Smaller pools are typically easier and cheaper to maintain than large pools. A small pool means less surface area to vacuum or brush and less water to treat with expensive chemicals. Repairs and remodels may be cheaper down the line, as well. Because small pools are more environmentally efficient than larger pools, you will even save money on electricity.
Can you install a slide or jump board for a small inground pool?
Most small pools are 5-8 feet deep at most, but jump boards and slides require a pool depth of 8+ feet for safe operation. Whether you can install a slide or jump board also depends on the pool you’re building and local codes, so you should check with a design consultant.
Design your dream inground pool with Anthony & Sylvan
At Anthony & Sylvan, we know that it can be difficult to envision a pool in your small yard. When you call us for a free on-site consultation, an A&S expert will create a 3D rendering of your dream pool that takes your backyard, your budget, and your priorities into full consideration. You’ll be surprised by how much fun and relaxation you can fit into your backyard!
When you’re ready to build your own small pool, the pros at Anthony & Sylvan have you covered. We have over 75 years of experience in building, maintaining, and renovating customizable inground pools for small yards. We’ve built over one million pools of all shapes and sizes, and we’re just getting started.
