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10 ideas for small urban swimming pools

By Christine Simard

Updated on April 19, 2024

When living in the city, the option of having an outdoor courtyard at home is often minimal, even more so if you are a tenant. However, if you are lucky to own a home in the city and it comes with a backyard, the dimensions available to you may be restrictive.

One of the best examples of accessories that are often hard to come by when owning a small city yard is the swimming pool. Whether above ground or in-ground, chlorinated or natural, the landscaping around pools can be complex, especially if the space you have is small. That is why we often see more of them in the suburbs!

If the above situation applies to you, here are some options that can give you the same visual impact as a traditional swimming pool, in addition to wowing your guests.

Urban swimming pools: 10 ideas to better inspire you

1. The new craze of stock tank pools

We see more and more of them on decoration blogs, with their growing popularity! In itself an easy and inexpensive solution, it will save you a lot of time and energy with the low maintenance it requires.

Another great thing about them is that they are easy to customize since metal is an easy-to-paint material.

piscine urbaine_Soumission Rénovation

Source: lollyjane, sunset, domino & heywandererblog

2. Adapting your yard to make it a mix between pool patio and nature

A perfect compromise that leaves room for the imagination! If you are a gardener or prefer to keep some greenery for a more traditional yard, this option will allow you to plan complete landscaping that can balance these two aspects.

petite piscine urbaine et nature_Soumission Rénovation

Source: secondnature.co.nz, sweetyhomee & cotemaison.fr

3. Transform your entire backyard into a pool patio

If, unlike the previous option, you are not a fan of maintaining a garden or lawn, a complete patio with an integrated swimming pool will save you a lot of time and energy in the end!

However, we recommend consulting our article on how to stain your patio to make sure you maintain it well!

petite piscine urbaine et terrasse complète_Soumission Rénovation

Source: Houzz.fr, Maison-travaux.fr & Coolchicstylefashion

4. A small above-ground pool made of wood

A bit like a spa, this small pool is versatile and will charm your guests! Perfect for hot summer days and for small yards that lack space. You can also have it installed on a large patio!

petite piscine urbaine hors terre en bois_Soumission Rénovation

Source: Decor.fr & Tuacasa

5. A long pool for narrower yards

This type of design is not only perfect for the whole family, but also for sports lovers! Originally designed for lap swimming, it will also serve as a recreational pool for the season.

piscine urbaine faite sur le long_Soumission Rénovation

Source: Decorfacil, Philipbabb & Contemporist

6. Concrete for an original pool base

To achieve an urban and modern look, this option is perfect. Although this idea sounds almost crazy, it is not impossible! Concrete is a sustainable option since it is a strong and practical material in the long run.

piscine urbaine en béton_Soumission Rénovation

Source: Katrinaleechambers

7. Paving stone and inground pool that blend in well with the decor

Another interesting way to integrate your small pool into your decor! A paving stone layout incorporating a basin acting as an inground pool, this design is at the same time subtle, elegant and versatile.

piscine et pavé-uni_Soumission Rénovation

Source: houseandhome, designrshub & travelandleisure

8. A tiny pool that is still fun to use

The idea of ​​a very small swimming pool may seem unnecessary at times, but these examples are here to convince you otherwise. On a hot, hot day, you will probably be happy to have access to a cool pool of water, no matter how small.

petite piscine urbaine dans une cour_Soumission Rénovation

Source: Thedesignfiles, ​​wonen.nl & Homeandgarden

9. An extension of the patio, regardless of the materials!

Original and modern, this design will certainly bring a unique character to your existing patio. This idea works just as well with a wood patio as it does a concrete patio.

piscine extension de patio_ Soumission Rénovation

Source: homestolove, frenchyfancy, ​​@dom.overseas & thedenizen 

10. A small relaxation area and mini swimming pool

Creating a relaxing oasis in a small space is not an impossible project, but it will take a lot of planning. Perfect arrangement for a secluded corner of the yard.

petite piscine urbaine et coin détente_ Soumission Rénovation

Source: Ecooutdoor

Get 3 renovation quotes for your pool project

RenoQuotes.com can help you get quotes for your pool and landscaping project. If you submit your project to us, we’ll put you in contact with top-rated contractors. Fill in the form on the homepage (it only takes a few minutes), and you will get estimates from trusted professionals.

Dial 1-844 828-1588 to speak with one of our customer service representatives.


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