"I'd love a pool, but my backyard is too small."
We hear this regularly, and it's usually not true. While you might not be doing Olympic laps, a well-designed compact pool can transform even a modest backyard into a genuine retreat.
Rethinking What a Pool Can Be
The traditional image of a pool—large, rectangular, dominating the yard—doesn't reflect what's possible today. Plunge pools and compact designs offer real pool experiences in spaces that would have seemed impossible a generation ago.
What fits in a smaller yard:
- Plunge pools (typically 10-15 feet) for cooling off and relaxation
- Cocktail pools designed for socializing rather than swimming
- Spools (spa-pool hybrids) that combine hot tub and pool functions
- Geometric designs that maximize usable space
The Plunge Pool Advantage
Plunge pools have become increasingly popular for good reason. They deliver most of what people actually want from a pool while requiring significantly less space and maintenance.
Why plunge pools work:
- Perfect for cooling off on hot Utah summer days
- Deep enough for submersion and relaxation
- Small enough to heat efficiently (extending your swim season)
- Easier and less expensive to maintain
- Leave more yard space for other uses
A 12x6 plunge pool with a sun shelf gives you space to cool off, lounge, and enjoy the water—without consuming your entire backyard.
Making Small Spaces Work
Smart design is everything with compact pools. A few principles that help:
Placement matters: A pool tucked into a corner with thoughtful landscaping feels intentional, not cramped. The goal is integration, not just fitting something in.
Dual-purpose features: A raised edge can serve as seating. A sun shelf provides lounging space within the pool footprint. Every element should work harder in a small space.
Vertical elements: When you can't go wide, think about what's around the pool. Vertical gardens, privacy screens, and strategic plantings create an immersive environment.
The right shape: Geometric pools (rectangles, squares) often work better in small yards than freeform designs. Clean lines help small spaces feel organized rather than cluttered.
What About Lot Constraints?
Every property has requirements—setbacks from property lines, utility easements, access for construction equipment. These affect what's possible more than raw square footage.
During a site visit, we assess:
- Actual usable space after setbacks
- Equipment access routes
- Existing utilities and easements
- Drainage and grading
- Neighbor sightlines and privacy
Sometimes yards that seem too small have more workable space than expected. Other times, constraints we hadn't considered change the approach. A site visit is the only way to know for sure.
Realistic Expectations
A plunge pool won't let you train for a triathlon. But if what you actually want is a place to cool off, relax, and enjoy your backyard, a compact pool delivers that beautifully.
Be honest about how you'll use the space:
- Cooling off after work? A plunge pool is perfect.
- Kids splashing around? Works great with proper depth planning.
- Lap swimming? You'll need more space (or consider a swim spa).
- Entertaining? Cocktail pools are designed exactly for this.
Next Steps
If you've been assuming your yard is too small, you might be surprised. We've installed pools in spaces homeowners were certain wouldn't work.
The only way to know what's possible is to look at your specific property. Our consultations are free, and we'll give you an honest assessment—including telling you if a pool genuinely won't work for your space.
Schedule a site visit or call us at (801) 510-7142.