FAVORITE SPACE

POOLSIDE OASIS

Four ways to enhance your waterfront designs

BY EVIE KLOPP HOLZER PHOTOS BY EMILY HART

Water exudes tranquil properties. With a ripple effect that relaxes all who gaze upon it, a pool becomes the ideal centerpiece to surrounding hardscapes and landscapes. Here, we dive into four ways to enhance poolside designs and create the most soothing experiences — as “ahhh-” inspiring as a cool dip in the crystal blue water.

JUST ADD SHADE Determine how much sun your backyard receives so you can pull in several dependable sources for shade. Design a pergola to cover your back porch, or build a stand-alone structure and make it your own. Incorporate ceiling fans, a misting system and walls of wooden shutters that can be adjusted throughout the day to keep you cool. Customized umbrellas are a great addition for more color, style and shade around the pool.

SET A SUNNY SCENE Lounge chairs with cushions and pillows in no-fade, weatherproof fabrics are a thoughtful way to accommodate those craving a little more Vitamin D. Organize a bar cart nearby with all the essentials — sunblock, towels and an icy bucket of bottled drinks — for extra convenience. Monogrammed towels provide a personal touch, and you can mix in a hammock or two if your backyard has the right trees.

SERVICE, PLEASE There are so many elements to think about when planning an outdoor kitchen and bar. You can incorporate an ice maker, sink,

ABOVE LEFT: This Norman backyard maximizes outdoor amenities with a covered poolside patio.

BELOW LEFT: A bar cart doubles as the perfect place to offer extra towels.

RIGHT: Natural beauty is celebrated by incorporating earthy elements: rattan furniture, seashell-adorned lighting and natural fiber rugs.

refrigerator, kegerator, grill or pizza oven, among other amenities. High-top seating at the bar allows for built-in dining — and the opportunity to layer in welcoming chairs. Design an open layout so everyone has easy access to food and beverage service.

LOVE YOUR LOUNGE Durable outdoor furniture is only part of designing an outstanding exterior living room. Seek out nautical touches, like a chandelier dripping in seashells or a rattan chaise daybed in neutral tones. Lay down rugs to group seating vignettes together, and use potted plants for bursts of color and texture. To keep the area in play after summer concludes, install heaters, a fire pit or a fireplace. Cool plus cozy equals a year-round poolside paradise.