How to transform your poolside into a chic oasis

Every summer, images of the world’s most beautiful pools are splashed across Instagram. The offerings are as varied as they are alluring, from the lava-formed basins of Madeira in Portugal to Marina Bay Sands’ 57th-floor infinity pool overlooking the Singaporean skyline. Some are destinations in their own right, be it the tidal complex at Bondi Icebergs Club in Sydney or the saltwater infinity pool at Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc, nestled among the cliffs of the French Riviera.

The latter was one of many chic pools immortalised by legendary photographer Slim Aarons, who famously documented high society in glamorous far-flung destinations like the Caribbean, Palm Springs and Italy. With vibrant colours, mid-century modern furniture and an enviably carefree attitude, his photos capture a spirit of poolside chic that many still aspire to decades later.

“The importance of poolside environments in homes has grown significantly, largely driven by the rise of wellness-focused living,” says Pooja Shah-Mulani, managing partner, creative, at LW Design. “With residential design increasingly blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces, the pool has become a natural extension of the home. There’s a desire for fluid movement between inside and out, with spaces that feel connected both visually and experientially.”

Whether you live in the city or country, a stylish poolside has become a must. Unlike in Aarons’ era, which glorified over-the-top glamour and decadence, current trends embrace a more understated vibe where luxury vacation meets versatility and comfort.

“We’re seeing a strong pull towards spaces that feel immersive and deeply connected to their surroundings rather than overtly ‘designed’. There’s still an appreciation for classic glamour and polished entertaining, but increasingly clients are gravitating towards environments that feel quieter and more organic – that are liveable rather than overly formal,” says Guillaume Coutheillas, founder of US-based interior design firm FrenchCalifornia.

While landscaping plays a key role – a garden setting or additional greenery adds a sense of calm and softness – it is furniture that grounds the look. According to Coutheillas, comfort and proportion should take priority when it comes to outdoor seating. He recommends styles that connect with interior living spaces, such as oversized lounge seats, modular pieces and curved silhouettes. Accent seating such as poufs, hammocks and hanging egg chairs add a casual touch. And if space allows, create smaller, flexible zones that can be used for entertaining or relaxation.

Consider shade as well. Landscaping and covered terraces are a given, but elements like daytime cabanas, pergolas, umbrellas and other unexpected structures can create a more interesting design narrative.

“A gazebo is perfect because it lends architecture to the space. My home features a pagoda-style gazebo with climbing roses all around. We use it in various ways – as an alfresco dining setting, a place to read and nap, or for shade from the sun. You can also create special moments with items like a rocker with an umbrella,” says Blue Carreon, author of The Gardens of the Hamptons and founder of Blue Carreon Home.