Ultimate Guide to Rectangle Pool Landscaping Ideas: Design, Style, and Inspiration

Introduction

Rectangle pools are a timeless and versatile choice for homeowners looking to create a sleek, modern backyard oasis. The clean lines of a rectangular pool provide an elegant frame that can easily be adapted to various landscaping styles, whether you’re designing a small space or creating a luxurious resort-like environment. In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of rectangle pool landscaping ideas—from simple, budget-friendly solutions to stunning designs with sun shelves and waterfalls. Whether you’re working with a small space or seeking to create a modern retreat, this article will provide ample inspiration for your poolside transformation.

1. Simple Rectangle Pool Landscaping Ideas

When it comes to rectangular pools, simplicity often leads to timeless beauty. Clean, minimalist designs around the pool help the structure stand out, making it a focal point of your backyard. Here are some simple yet effective landscaping ideas:

Minimalist Garden

Consider surrounding the pool with a minimalist garden that features just a few key plants. Think of low-maintenance perennials or sculptural plants like ornamental grasses, agaves, or succulents. Using plants with a modern, geometric shape will enhance the straight lines of the rectangular pool.

Neutral Hardscaping

Neutral-toned paving, such as concrete, travertine, or neutral tiles, works well to emphasize the symmetry of a rectangle pool. These materials offer a modern, sleek aesthetic while keeping the focus on the pool itself. Adding simple stone or gravel borders around the pool creates a clean, unobtrusive look.

Lush Green Lawn

A well-manicured lawn surrounding the pool adds a natural, refreshing touch without overwhelming the design. Choose low-maintenance grass varieties such as zoysia or fescue that grow well in your climate, and make sure to keep them trimmed to maintain the neat appearance.

2. Rectangle Pool Designs with Sun Shelf

Adding a sun shelf to a rectangular pool is an increasingly popular trend, combining luxury with practicality. A sun shelf is a shallow ledge at one end of the pool, designed for lounging, children to play, or even for lounging in shallow water. Here’s how to integrate a sun shelf into your pool design:

Elevated Sun Shelf

An elevated sun shelf is a fantastic way to create a dynamic, modern aesthetic. The sun shelf is raised slightly above the water level, and a waterfall feature could cascade down into the pool from this ledge, offering both visual and auditory appeal. The raised shelf can also double as a stylish place for poolside furniture.

Integrated Lounge Area

For a more luxurious look, design a sun shelf that includes built-in seating. A sun shelf with an integrated lounge area allows you to enjoy the cool water while still being able to stretch out and relax. Incorporate cushions for comfort and perhaps even a built-in bar to serve drinks or snacks poolside.

Natural Materials

For a more organic look, you can finish the sun shelf with natural materials such as pebbles or stones. This is perfect for a natural or tropical poolside design, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

3. Small Rectangle Pool Landscaping Ideas

Small rectangular pools can be a challenge to landscape, but with a bit of creativity, you can make the most of limited space. Here are some ideas that work well in smaller areas:

Vertical Gardens

When you’re working with a smaller pool area, vertical gardens or green walls are a smart way to incorporate lush greenery without taking up precious floor space. Install a vertical garden near the poolside for an elegant touch of green. Choose hardy, easy-to-care-for plants like ivy, ferns, or bamboo.

Floating Planters

Consider using floating planters that drift on the water’s surface or are anchored in the pool. They add visual interest while keeping the surrounding deck or patio clear for movement. Succulents, water lilies, and even small palm plants thrive in floating planters.

Compact Furniture

To make a small poolside area feel larger, opt for compact, sleek outdoor furniture. Think bistro sets or modular furniture that can be rearranged easily. Lightweight, stackable chairs or foldable loungers can provide comfort without overwhelming the space.

4. Rectangle Pool Designs with Waterfall

A waterfall adds an element of sound and motion that transforms the atmosphere around your pool. Here’s how to integrate waterfalls into a rectangular pool design:

Corner Waterfall

One of the simplest ways to add a waterfall feature to your rectangular pool is to place it in one of the corners. A corner waterfall is a great way to achieve a balanced look and still enjoy the soothing sound of cascading water. Surround it with rocks or greenery to make it feel like a natural feature of the landscape.

Wall Waterfall

A wall waterfall is a dramatic and stunning feature for a rectangular pool. Install a vertical stone or glass wall at one end of the pool, with water flowing down its surface into the pool below. The wall acts as a sculptural centerpiece, while the waterfall creates an ambient sound that enhances relaxation.

Rock Waterfall

For a more natural and rustic look, a rock waterfall that cascades over large stones is ideal. This type of waterfall blends seamlessly with outdoor garden settings, providing a waterfall that feels like a part of the natural environment.

5. Rectangle Pool Landscaping Ideas on a Budget

You don’t need to break the bank to create a beautiful, functional poolside landscape. Here are some budget-friendly ideas for landscaping your rectangular pool:

Repurposed Materials

Look for materials that can be repurposed or recycled. For example, old wooden pallets can be used to create stylish, low-cost outdoor furniture. Recycled pavers can be laid around the pool to create a charming, eco-friendly look.

DIY Planters

For a personal touch, make your own planters using inexpensive materials like terracotta pots, old crates, or concrete blocks. You can plant low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants like lavender or rosemary to add fragrance and texture without much upkeep.

Low-Cost Lighting

Lighting can completely transform the atmosphere around your pool at night. Instead of expensive built-in lights, consider solar-powered LED lights or string lights to illuminate the space. These cost-effective solutions add a warm, inviting ambiance.

6. Modern Rectangular Pool Designs

If you’re aiming for a modern pool design, the key is simplicity, sleek lines, and high-quality materials. Here are some ideas for creating a stylish modern rectangular pool:

Glass Pool Fencing

Replace traditional fencing with glass panels to maintain the sleek look of your pool while offering unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. Glass fencing also contributes to the open and airy feel of modern design.

Polished Concrete and Stone

For the decking around your rectangular pool, use polished concrete, natural stone, or even wood-look tiles to create a sophisticated, minimalist environment. These materials complement the sharp angles of the pool while providing durability.

Integrated Pool Lighting

Incorporating integrated lighting within the pool coping or surrounding decking creates an elegant atmosphere. LED strips or under-water lighting highlight the sleek lines of the pool, making it a striking feature even after dark.

7. DIY Rectangle Pool Landscaping Ideas

If you’re the type of homeowner who enjoys getting hands-on, DIY landscaping projects are a great way to add personality to your pool area. Here are some ideas you can execute on your own:

Patio Design with Pavers

Lay your own stone or brick pavers around the pool to create a customized patio area. You can easily cut pavers to fit, or even mix different materials for added texture. DIY patio projects can be completed over a weekend with minimal cost.

Garden Structures

Consider adding DIY trellises or arbors made from inexpensive wood to frame your poolside. Climbing plants like ivy or jasmine can grow up the structures, creating a green, shaded area for relaxing by the pool.

Outdoor Art

Create your own artistic touches, such as mosaics, sculptures, or even custom-painted planters. Personalizing your poolside with artwork gives it a unique charm and style that reflects your tastes.

8. Personal Experience

Last summer, I reshaped my 12×24 ft rectangle pool yard with $450. Using flagstone borders and drought-tolerant sedums, I created a 6-ft lounging ledge that doubled as a kids’ splash zone. Solar-powered LED strips along the coping added night swim safety, while a $120 bamboo screen hid the filter—turning a plain concrete box into a resort-style oasis that hosts 12-person barbecues weekly.

10. Rectangle Pool Landscaping Ideas for Low Maintenance

Maintaining a pristine poolside can be time-consuming, but with the right approach, you can reduce upkeep significantly. Here are some low-maintenance ideas:

Artificial Turf

Instead of natural grass, use synthetic turf that looks great year-round and requires no mowing, watering, or fertilizing. It’s perfect for creating a low-maintenance lawn area near the pool.

Hardscaping Over Softscaping

By prioritizing hardscaping—materials like stone, concrete, or tiles—you can reduce the need for plant care. Hardscapes require little upkeep and can provide a chic, polished look.

Smart Irrigation

Install an irrigation system that waters your plants on a schedule. This saves time, ensures your plants get the right amount of water, and reduces water waste. Paired with drought-tolerant plants, this makes your pool area both beautiful and sustainable.

Conclusion

Designing a beautiful landscape around a rectangular pool is an exciting opportunity to create a space that suits your style and lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to the simplicity of minimalist gardens, the luxury of a sun shelf, or the tranquility of a cascading waterfall, there’s no shortage of inspiration. Additionally, the ability to customize your poolside experience—whether you’re working with a budget or a large, open space—means that everyone can achieve their dream pool area.

If you’re looking for more home improvement inspiration, check out Dwellmend.com for more ideas and tips to transform your home and garden.