8 Inspiring Ideas for an Inground Pool Glow-Up

Your pool should be the crown jewel of your backyard—an escape from stress and the ultimate spot to chill or entertain. If it’s looking a little tired, don’t worry! Whether you’re after sleek upgrades or new features that’ll wow your guests, these ten ideas will help you transform your pool into a show-stopping oasis. Let’s dive in!

1. Upgrade Your Pool Decking

Boost Safety with Slip-Resistant Pool Decking

Your pool deck is the red carpet of your backyard—it sets the vibe. Swapping out old, worn-out decking for sleek materials like stamped concrete, natural stone, or composite pavers instantly boosts style and functionality. Plus, modern materials often come with slip-resistant finishes for extra safety.

• Why Do It? Adds style and reduces slip hazards.
• Budget: Starts at $3,000 for smaller areas and basic materials like stamped concrete. However, premium materials like natural stone or composite pavers can push costs significantly higher, potentially reaching $10,000–$20,000 or more for larger decks or intricate designs.

“Sweet Summertime” Project by Fountain Blue Pools

2. Add a Pergola or Shade Structure

 Stylish Shade Solutions for Florida Sunshine

Florida sunshine is amazing, but sometimes you need a little shade. Enter: the pergola. It’s the perfect way to create a cozy hangout spot near your pool. Add comfy outdoor furniture, string lights, and maybe even some climbing plants for a magical vibe.

• Why Do It? Provides shade, comfort, and an added design element.
• Budget: $3,000–$8,000 is reasonable for small to medium-sized pergolas, but custom designs, premium materials, or larger structures with integrated features (e.g., lights, fans) could easily exceed $8,000.

“Pergola Perfection” by Fountain Blue Pools

3. Build an Outdoor Kitchen

 Grill, Chill, and Entertain Poolside - Without Missing the Fun

A custom pool design deserves a luxury outdoor kitchen to match. Imagine grilling by the pool, with a fridge full of cold drinks and plenty of prep space. An outdoor kitchen keeps guests outside where the action is, making your backyard the ultimate hangout spot.

• Why Do It? Makes hosting a breeze and keeps everyone outside where the fun is.
• Budget: On average, a basic setup starts at $10,000. However, depending on customization and materials, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen with a refrigerator, sink, and storage can range from $15,000 to over $50,000.

Palm Meadows Project by Fountain Blue Pools

4. Install a Fire Feature

Combine Poolside Fire Features and Firepits for Dramatic Flair

Fire pits, fire bowls, or even a full fireplace can elevate your pool area’s ambiance. This stunning addition turns your inground pool into a year-round destination for cozy evenings and stylish outdoor gatherings.

• Why Do It? Elevates ambiance and makes your pool area usable year-round.
• Budget: A fire pit can start at $1,500 for basic prefab designs, while custom fire bowls or built-in fireplaces could cost upwards of $5,000–$10,000. 

“Mesmerizing Mosaic” West Palm Beach, Florida

6. Install Underwater Pool Lighting

 Enhance Your Pool’s Nighttime Glow

Underwater LED lighting doesn’t just make your pool safer—it makes it look amazing. it transforms your luxury pool into a nighttime masterpiece. With programmable colors and effects, you can create the perfect vibe for pool parties or a quiet evening swim.

• Why Do It? Enhances nighttime vibes and safety.
• Budget: $700–$2,000 is realistic for retrofitting LED pool lights into an existing pool. Programmable lighting systems may push the budget to the higher end, while adding lights to a large pool may exceed $2,000.

“Light Up The Night” Project by Fountain Blue Pools

7. Add a Water Feature

Options for DAYS - Pool Fountains, Bubblers, and Deck Jets

Nothing says luxury like the soothing sound of flowing water. Water features can add movement and calm to your pool design from elegant waterfalls to deck jets or playful bubblers.

• Why Do It? Elevates aesthetics and creates a relaxing atmosphere.
• Budget: Simple water features like deck jets or bubblers can start at $1,500–$2,000. Depending on complexity and materials, larger features, like waterfalls or custom fountains, can reach or exceed the $10,000 mark.

“Waterfalls and Wonder” Project by Fountain Blue Pools

8. Add a Hot Tub or Spa

Hydrotherapy Benefits for the Ultimate Pool Upgrade

Want the ultimate relaxation upgrade? Add a hot tub or spa to your pool design. Whether you choose a standalone hot tub or integrate it into your inground pool, this addition combines relaxation, functionality, and style for the ultimate backyard retreat.

• Why Do It? Combines luxury and functionality, offering hydrotherapy benefits.
• Budget: $10,000–$20,000 is the typical starting point for an integrated spa or standalone hot tub. High-end models, custom designs, and additional features (e.g., jets and heating systems) could exceed $20,000.

“Room for Two” Project by Fountain Blue Pools

Ready to Bring Your Pool Dreams to Life?

Fountain Blue Pools Is Your Go-To for Pool Renovation

From upgrading to smart features and pool resurfacing to adding jaw-dropping water features and mosaic tiles, these ideas will make your pool the centerpiece of your backyard paradise. Ready to start your pool remodel? Contact Fountain Blue Pools to get started!

“Pergolas and Pelicans” Project by Fountain Blue Pools