5 Outdoor Living Ideas for Making the Most of an Inground Pool Addition in Camp Hill, PA

For many homeowners, installing an inground pool is just the beginning of creating the perfect outdoor living space. Pools are often the centerpieces of American backyards and are adaptable to a wide variety of design ideas and amenities that can enhance the outdoor living experience. The outdoor living area should be designed around convenience so that you can minimize trips between the pool and the house. Here are five outdoor living ideas for making the most of an inground pool addition in Camp Hill, PA.

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Structures such as a pergola or a pavilion can provide protection from drenching summer rains. A fireplace or fire pit can keep the fun going all summer and take the chill off the evenings. An outdoor kitchen and bar keeps everyone fed and happy without having to dry off before going inside. Various water features can adorn your backyard with a tranquil yet dramatic ambiance, while the right lighting will let create a safe and attractive nighttime environment. 

Take Shelter

A simple structure such as a pergola or a pavilion could be perfect for that pause in the day when you’ve had too much sun. Pergolas feature open sides and roofs, and they are often enhanced by various climbing plants to help scatter sunlight. Pavilions have solid roofs for protection from heavy rains. 

Both pergolas and pavilions are often used to create a living room atmosphere at the poolside, as they are freestanding structures that can be integrated into the pool deck or accessed via a walkway.

Fire Features

Fire pits, fire tables, and outdoor fireplaces can become exciting and comforting companions that offer a chance to warm up after a chilly swim. All three can be made of beautiful stone masonry that complements your pool deck, patio, and home.

Outdoor Kitchen

Keeping the fun outside should be the goal of the summer. An outdoor kitchen near your pool will minimize trips to your kitchen and sets the scene for memorable activities with family and friends. 

Outdoor kitchens are excitingly customizable, from grill stations with a peninsula bar to a gourmet kitchen with professional quality appliances. 

If your outdoor kitchen is already in place, consider a mini-fridge and snack bar near the pool to keep everyone fed and happy. These amenities go a long way in making the poolside experience even better.

Water Features

Adding water to water can seem extravagant, but it can actually help you enjoy your pool area long after swim season is over. Fountains and waterfalls add a liveliness to your backyard. Laminar jets and spillover hot tubs add a touch of luxury (and fun). Any water feature can be integrated with the pool itself, or positioned nearby.

An outdoor shower is a great way to wash off chlorine without going indoors.  

Lighting Techniques

Lighting your pool with certain techniques will help you make the most of it as day turns into night. The right lighting will enhance safety and security, provide a festive ambiance, and showcase the visual beauty of your pool and your entire backyard. Submersible lighting is the use of lights below the surface of the water and can help your pool make a beautiful blue glow and dancing ripples on nearby surfaces. Low-lying LED lights can be placed along any patio edge or walkway, a choice that will help ensure safety of those walking at night and reduce energy usage. Installing string lights above and around the pool will employ a festive atmosphere that will dazzle your guests.

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