29 Affordable Small Pool Ideas to Fit Any Budget

Looking to create a stunning and functional small pool for your backyard?

Here are 29 small pool ideas that offer a mix of style, innovation, and practicality.

From sleek modern designs to cozy, intimate retreats, you’ll find inspiration for every space, size, and taste. Let’s dive into these unique ideas!

1. Compact Lap Pool for Small Spaces

If you’re short on space but love swimming, a compact lap pool could be the perfect solution.

These long and narrow pools are designed for exercise, taking up minimal room while allowing for a rewarding swim.

2. Cascading Waterfall Pool

A cascading waterfall pool brings the tranquil sounds of nature right to your backyard.

Set against stone walls, water flows gently down, creating a peaceful environment perfect for relaxing and enjoying your space.

3. Above Ground Pool with Decking

An above-ground pool surrounded by custom decking offers a practical way to incorporate a pool in a small yard.

This setup allows for added lounge space and makes maintenance easy with a sleek, stylish finish.

4. Plunge Pool with Lounge Area

A plunge pool is designed for relaxation, not swimming. Add a surrounding lounge area with cushions and towels to enhance the ambiance. This setup gives you a refreshing dip without taking up too much space.

5. Tiled Rectangle Pool

For a clean and sophisticated look, a tiled rectangle pool is a modern approach.

Use porcelain or mosaic tiles for a minimalist yet luxurious aesthetic that complements any backyard design.

6. Circular Pool with Minimalist Design

A circular pool offers a unique touch to small backyards. This design takes up less space and can be paired with minimalist furniture for a chic, modern feel. Keep the landscape simple with a few potted plants for a serene vibe.

7. Pool with Glass Sides

A glass-sided pool adds a luxurious, modern twist to your backyard. The transparency offers a striking visual effect, making your small pool appear more spacious and showcasing the surrounding landscape in an innovative way.

8. Modern Plunge Pool with Hot Tub

Combine the refreshing coolness of a plunge pool with the warmth of a hot tub.

This combination makes for a versatile space perfect for relaxing, unwinding, and enjoying both the cold and warm waters.

9. In-ground Pool with Integrated Hot Tub

For a seamless look, an in-ground pool with an integrated hot tub is a great way to save space while offering the benefits of both features in one.

You can easily lounge in one while cooling off in the other.

10. Garden Pool with Pebble Stone Finish

If you’re looking for something unique, a garden pool with a pebble stone finish offers both texture and natural beauty.

The finish blends well with surrounding greenery, making the pool feel like part of the landscape.

11. Minimalist Pool with Wooden Deck

A minimalist pool surrounded by a wooden deck brings warmth and elegance to a small space.

The combination of clean lines and natural wood creates a modern aesthetic that works well with urban gardens.

12. Pool with Floating Garden

Incorporate a floating garden in your pool design for an eco-friendly and visually stunning touch.

You can grow water plants or small flowers that float atop the water, adding beauty while maintaining space for swimming.

13. Rectangular Infinity Pool

A rectangular infinity pool brings a touch of grandeur to small spaces. It creates an illusion of endless water flowing over the edge, giving the pool a spacious feel without taking up too much room.

14. Sculptural Pool Design

For a more artistic approach, a sculptural pool features creative, flowing shapes that blend into your landscape.

This can serve as a visual centerpiece, offering beauty and interest while maintaining a small footprint.

15. Sunken Pool with Stone Walls

A sunken pool with stone walls creates a cozy, private oasis. The low-profile design allows you to relax and unwind, while the stone walls provide privacy and an attractive, natural backdrop.

16. Modern Pool with Natural Stone Border

For a natural yet modern look, a modern pool with a natural stone border provides a rustic touch that pairs well with sleek, contemporary furniture and décor.

The stone also helps define the space, adding texture and interest.

17. Compact Pool with Water Features

Incorporate a few water features into your small pool design, such as jets or a small fountain.

These add motion and sound to the pool area, turning it into a relaxing retreat with minimal space.

18. Vertical Pool Design

A vertical pool is designed for compact spaces. It uses the height of your backyard instead of width, creating a waterfall effect with cascading water and offering a small but visually impactful water feature.

19. Tiled Spa Pool with Seating

A tiled spa pool with built-in seating provides a luxurious lounging experience.

With benches along the sides, you can relax in the water while soaking up the surrounding scenery in comfort.

20. Floating Wooden Deck Over Pool

For an innovative touch, consider a floating wooden deck above a small pool.

This deck creates a relaxing area to lounge, sunbathe, or host guests, offering dual functionality in a tight space.

21. Swimming Pool with Natural Plants

If you want to blend the pool with nature, incorporate natural plants around the perimeter.

This creates a tropical, lush atmosphere that softens the edges and integrates the pool into your landscape beautifully.

22. Oval Shaped Pool

An oval-shaped pool fits perfectly in smaller areas, offering a soft, curving aesthetic that contrasts with sharp rectangular designs.

Its organic shape blends well with flowing landscapes and provides a refreshing splash without overwhelming the yard.

23. Roof-top Pool

A roof-top pool maximizes space by making use of your building’s top floor.

Ideal for urban settings, this design gives you a peaceful place to cool off and take in stunning views while keeping the pool compact.

24. Small Pool with Wooden Privacy Screen

A small pool complemented by a wooden privacy screen provides intimacy and seclusion.

It’s the perfect solution for tight spaces that need a bit of separation from neighbors, offering both privacy and style.

25. Geometric Pool with Clean Lines

For a sleek, modern look, a geometric pool with clean lines adds a minimalist touch to any small backyard. Its sharp angles and orderly design create a sophisticated vibe that works in contemporary spaces.

26. Natural Lagoon-style Pool

A natural lagoon-style pool mimics the appearance of a serene body of water.

Incorporating natural rocks, plants, and a soft-edge design, it creates a relaxed and tranquil environment in even the smallest of spaces.

27. Pool with Retractable Roof

A pool with a retractable roof allows you to enjoy the outdoor weather while still protecting your space when needed.

This design maximizes comfort and flexibility in a small, efficient design.

28. Swim Spa Pool

A swim spa pool provides a compact solution for swimming exercises. It offers a counter-current for swimming laps in place, making it perfect for fitness enthusiasts who have limited space.

29. Infinity Edge Pool with Small Lounge Area

Incorporating an infinity edge pool with a small lounge area creates a luxurious and practical setup.

The smooth, flowing water pairs beautifully with a nearby seating area, offering a peaceful retreat in a compact space.

Final Thoughts:

With these 29 unique and small pool ideas, you can easily turn your backyard into a stylish oasis.

Whether you prefer sleek modern designs, natural stone finishes, or intimate plunge pools, there’s something here for every taste and space.

Create your ideal getaway with a pool design that perfectly complements your outdoor space.