GreenRoots Design Team has designed and installed countless pools and retreats for families to enjoy for years to come. Creating a backyard space is about creating space and spaces with intention and clear goals for each space within the space.
As part of our work, we do a lot of driving! Visiting customers that are in progress to check on details, and progress. We provide on site initial consultations with customers. An on site consultation is an essential part of our process because our design team learns about you and your family’s lifestyle as well as gets a general survey of your property to start, followed by detailed site analysis in the weeks that follow. We always provide a final walkthrough at the end of every project as well to ensure the project is 100% complete to our standards and that you are happy with the project.
3D walkthrough of a pool design that can be used all year long
All of that turns into a significant amount of driving in every direction from our home base in Kennett Square, PA. On one of my rounds, where I felt like I was all over the place in one day taking photos etc., it was a particularly hot day and I kept noticing all of the pools in the area. I noticed a pattern to all of the pools that I passed. There were almost all, seriously, a pool “plopped in” the backyard. It would go house, simple deck, fence, pool “plopped in.” If you are saying to yourself, “What is wrong with that?” I will start by saying, you are not alone, considering how many pools I passed that I would consider “plopped in!” But the problem with that? Most simply, you are limiting your entire property to only be able to be used on perfect swimming days only. So let’s say to be safe, June-August? You may be able to stretch your swimming season a little longer, but I would argue not by much. And you are missing out on a space for the rest of the year!
Backyard Pools and Design: Dos and Don’ts from the Professionals at GreenRoots
At GreenRoots Design Firm, we believe a backyard pool should be more than just a place to swim — it should be the centerpiece of an outdoor space that brings joy, comfort, and connection throughout the year. A well-designed pool area blends seamlessly with your home and landscape, creating an experience, not just an installation. Here are a few expert-backed dos and don’ts to keep in mind when planning your dream backyard oasis.
3D walkthrough of a pool and pool house that
DO design outdoor spaces to be used year-round.
Your backyard shouldn’t go dormant once pool season ends. A thoughtful layout considers how the space can serve you in every season — whether it’s lounging poolside in summer, enjoying a fire pit in fall, or soaking in the winter sun from a covered patio. By layering amenities and designing with the full calendar in mind, your poolscape becomes a versatile retreat all year long. A backyard space should take every season in mind and you should be able to enjoy and use your backyard 365 days a year. GreenRoots landscape designers select plants based on how they will interact in the fall together with lighting.
DO plan your pool and space layout with intention.
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is treating the pool as a standalone feature. In reality, its placement impacts everything — from circulation and privacy to how the space feels and functions. Before breaking ground, we map out how the pool relates to the house, existing structures, sun exposure, and outdoor gathering zones. Every element, from decking to sightlines, should have a purpose. The pool space, albeit an important space, is only 1 part of the overall space. The entire space should be carefully planned with your lifestyle in mind. With excellent design even what you are looking at from the inside of your home is at the forefront of our designers mind. They are considering what you will see while you are doing the dishes and that your view is amazing!
DON’T overlook what’s hard (or expensive) to change later.
Pools are permanent. That makes upfront planning essential. While furniture, lighting, and even planting can evolve over time, the pool’s shape, elevation, and location are costly to modify later. We help clients make smart, long-term decisions early — so your pool looks and feels right not just now, but for decades to come. Putting a pool into your backyard is the worst time to make a quick decision! We know you want to be swimming as quickly as possible, but our team will help keep you grounded! You want the shell, shape and elevation of the pool to be permanent and intentional.
DON’T “plop in” a pool without a comprehensive design.
One of the biggest disservices to a property is a pool that feels like an afterthought. Without a cohesive landscape plan, even a beautiful pool can feel out of place. That’s where professional landscape design makes the difference. At GreenRoots, we don’t just design pools — we craft immersive outdoor environments that blend aesthetics, functionality, and atmosphere into something truly special. The pools that have been plopped in only serve one purpose and honestly are an eye sore the rest of the year. Why not have something that is exceptional to look at no matter the time or season? The space should never feel like “only a pool” or you will be limiting your entire property’s potential!
Invest in the Experience":
Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek modern lap pool or a natural-style lagoon, our team is here to guide you through the design process — making sure your investment results in more than just a pool. It becomes an outdoor experience tailored to how you live, entertain, and recharge. Do not make the mistake of plopping a pool in without having it carefully designed and expertly installed by GreenRoots Design Firm.
Let’s bring your vision to life. Contact GreenRoots Design Firm to start designing your custom outdoor retreat today!
