In the sweltering heat of midsummer, a backyard pool feels like your own personal oasis. Even the busiest people can’t resist the lure of cool, blue water and a frozen drink in hand. But the secret to a truly relaxing, stylish poolside escape doesn’t lie in the water alone—it’s all about the thoughtful details.
Take Emily and Paul, for example, a couple living in Brooklyn who spent an entire spring transforming their weedy backyard into what they now call their “mini resort.” They laid vintage bricks into winding paths, built a wooden pergola, and picked outdoor furniture that could withstand the elements and still look good doing it. “We don’t even bother with the beach anymore,” Emily laughed. “We just pretend we’re in the south of France.”
This sense of escape is made possible by clever, beautiful essentials that elevate the poolside experience. A great example? The iGarden K Series pool cleaner. With an impressive 15-hour battery life, smart navigation, and multiple cleaning time settings, it does the dirty work so you can do absolutely nothing. Paul joked that it’s “definitely more hardworking than I am.”
Comfort is also key. No one wants red streaks on the back of their legs after a long lounge session. That’s why solid teak chaises with soft striped cushions are such a hit. British sisters Sophie and Claire placed one on their family patio in Kent, calling it their “ticket to the Riviera.” The teak is weather-resistant, and the blue-and-white stripes have that timeless, coastal charm.
Then there are the little things—like a pitcher and tray set that’s so good-looking it doubles as décor. The squiggly designs from Sophie Lou Jacobsen feel both playful and chic, perfect for a casual pool hang or an impromptu cocktail hour. James and Matt, a couple in L.A., keep theirs fully stocked on weekends. “Our basil-strawberry spritz is kind of a signature,” Matt said. “And honestly, it just tastes better in a cute pitcher.”
No poolside setup is complete without towels. But not just any towels—think OEKO-TEX certified cotton that’s thick, soft, and absorbent. Swedish designer Elin swears by her reversible striped towels, which come in colors so rich they could double as picnic blankets. “I wrap up in one after a swim, then lay it out as a mat when I sunbathe,” she said. “It’s like two towels in one.”
If you’ve got kids—or you just love a good float—safety and style matter. The Celine Grand Float by Danish brand Petites Pommes has become a cult favorite among families and design lovers alike. BPA- and phthalate-free, with classic silhouettes and a rainbow of colors, these floats are as durable as they are photogenic. Abby, a mom in Seattle, said, “My daughter won’t even look at the pool unless her float’s in it. It’s basically her summer throne.”
And of course, no summer afternoon is complete without icy drinks on demand. That’s where an outdoor bar cart comes in. The Al Fresco Cart by Business & Pleasure is compact yet functional, ideal for smoothies, sundaes, or an evening round of margaritas. It’s versatile enough to serve breakfast in the morning, cold drinks in the afternoon, and cocktails after sunset—just roll it where you need it.
All of these elements—useful, beautiful, and intentional—revolve around one idea: turning your home into the place you most want to be. Even if your summer plans don’t involve far-flung destinations, a few smart upgrades can transform a simple backyard into something special. Like Emily in Brooklyn said, sipping sparkling rosé by her pool while the neighbor’s dog barks in the distance, “This is our little escape. We made it ours.”
In a world that often feels too loud, too fast, too connected, sometimes the greatest luxury is pressing pause. Your pool isn’t just a place to cool off—it’s your own corner of calm. And making it beautiful? That’s the best kind of self-care.