Inspired Outdoor Living: Create a Poolside Oasis

The heat is on. For those lucky enough to have a pool in your backyard…when are you inviting us over for a swim? Envious as we are, we’re here to share a few bright ideas for transforming your pool area into an outdoor oasis.

 Dine al fresco

Dinner’s ready. Why call everyone in when the poolside fun is in full swing? With an easy-elegant outdoor dining table set, you can go with flow in style. Pretty enough for inside, yet durable enough to handle the elements, an outdoor dining setOpens in a new window—especially one crafted of rust-proof aluminum—can provide the perfect compromise. Opt for fast-drying cushions covered in outdoor-safe fabric, and you won’t even mind if your dinner guests come soaking wet.

Set up cozy corner seating

Whether you’re keeping an eye out while the kids are in the pool, or you’re trying to have a grown-up conversation…having a poolside getaway space, complete with cushy chairs and a fire pit tableOpens in a new window can make your pool area feel like an oasis. Set it off with a weather-safe rug, potted plants and candle lanterns for a truly escapist vibe.

 

Lighten things up, from the ground up

Through the power of light, you can transform your pool area into a magical getaway. Whether you’re looking to create a quiet outdoor retreat or turn your backyard into party central, outdoor string lights are essential. And though we’ve seen them strung over pools, we would never recommend you do that. After all, water and electricity should never, ever mix. Instead, string them safely around dining and lounge areas. More bright ideas for your poolside oasis include solar landscaping lights, candles/flamelessOpens in a new window and outdoor fairy lights that look effortlessly elegant.

 

Make a splash with a wet bar

Sure to have everyone in good spirits, a poolside wet bar can really make a splash. If you’re looking to turn up the heat on your outdoor entertaining, opt for an outdoor wet bar with a recessed fire bowl. Powered by a propane tank stored in the base, the flame turns on and off with the press of a button. A burner cover allows for more tabletop space. (Tip: Stock up on plastic wine glasses and beer mugs for safer poolside entertaining.)

 

 

Be made in the shade

What’s one thing all poolside oases have in common? Welcome respites from the sun. A cantilever umbrellaOpens in a new window, for example, is big enough to provide shade while you’re in the pool and lounging beside it. Just because it’s weighed down with 200+ pounds of sand, doesn’t mean it’s not flexible. Some cantilever umbrellas have an easy slider mechanism that pivots the canopy any way you please. You can rotate it 360 degrees simply by using a foot pedal. Other umbrellas tilt on a demand so as the sun shifts, you can stay put. We happen to love umbrellas with canopies lined with solar-powered LED lights. Talk about day-into-night magic.

Let your style shine

What’s the most important tip for creating a poolside oasis? Bring out your personality. Decorate your outdoor space with indoor-outdoor accent pieces that speak to you. Make it cozy, colorful and indulgently comfortable with weather-safe throw pillows. Roll out indoor-outdoor rugs that make barefootin’ wonderfully bearable.

 

There are so many ways to make a splash. We hope you have a blast creating a poolside oasis that suits your lifestyle beautifully.

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