Scandinavian pool area ideas for a Nordic outdoor oasis natural materials, minimalist design, and serene vibes. Transform your pool space. Save this guide.
1. Choose Natural, Weather Resistant Materials
The foundation of any Scandinavian pool area is the choice of materials. Think beyond concrete and opt for natural, durable materials that age beautifully.
What to do: Use materials like natural stone, wood, and locally sourced elements. Siberian larch decking is a popular choice for its durability and warm, natural appearance. For a cohesive look, consider sand-grey porcelain stoneware tiles that harmonize with wooden elements.
Why it works: Natural materials create a serene, grounded atmosphere that blends with the landscape. They also withstand the elements and develop a beautiful patina over time.
Pro tip: If you’re unsure about a permanent structure, start with a simpler setup. As one homeowner shared, “We dream of a permanent pool built with concrete blocks instead of our current frame pool maybe if we win the lottery…” Start with quality materials you can afford and build over time.
Tip: “Natural stone, wood, and locally sourced materials are the soul of a Scandinavian pool area. They ground the space in nature.”
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2. Embrace the Natural Pool (Ekopool) Concept
Natural pools, or ekopools, are a growing trend in Scandinavian outdoor design. They use biological filtration instead of chemicals, creating a swimming experience that feels like a natural lake.
What to do: Consider a natural pool with a swimming area and a regeneration zone where plants filter the water. Aim for at least 30% of the pool to be a plant zone for effective natural filtration. A natural pool can be a stunning 10 x 6 meters with biological water treatment.
Why it works: Natural pools are eco-friendly, chemical-free, and blend beautifully with the surrounding landscape. They create a unique, serene swimming experience that’s quintessentially Nordic.
Pro tip: A natural pool “helps nature on its way”. It’s a sustainable choice that benefits both you and the environment.
Tip: “A natural pool is the ultimate Scandinavian statement chemical-free, eco-friendly, and beautiful.”
3. Add a Wooden Deck (The Heart of the Oasis)
A wooden deck is the centerpiece of a Scandinavian pool area. It provides a warm, natural surface for lounging, dining, and entertaining.
What to do: Build a spacious deck around your pool using weather-resistant wood like Siberian larch. A deck can be integrated with large rocks for a striking, natural look. One stunning project featured 1,080 sq ft of decking with a pool, sauna, and pergola.
Why it works: A wooden deck adds warmth and texture to the pool area, creating a seamless transition between the pool and the surrounding landscape. It’s the heart of any Scandinavian outdoor oasis.
Pro tip: Choose wood that can be left outside year-round with minimal maintenance.
Tip: “A spacious wooden deck is the heart of a Scandinavian pool area warm, natural, and perfect for summer living.”
4. Incorporate a Sauna (The Ultimate Nordic Touch)
No Scandinavian pool area is complete without a sauna. It’s the ultimate expression of Nordic wellness and outdoor living.
What to do: Add a separate sauna structure near the pool. A sauna can be part of a versatile pool house that also functions as a studio or guest house. For a truly authentic experience, include both a wood-burning or electric heater option.
Why it works: The hot-cold therapy of sauna and pool is a cornerstone of Scandinavian wellness. It extends the use of your outdoor space into cooler months.
Pro tip: A sauna and plunge pool are traditionally enjoyed by everyone in the family.
Tip: “A sauna by the pool is the ultimate Nordic luxury hot-cold therapy at its finest.”
5. Add a Pergola or Covered Structure
A pergola provides shade, shelter, and architectural interest to your pool area. It’s a key element in creating a cohesive outdoor living space.
What to do: Install a pergola over part of your deck or pool area. One inspiring project featured a pergola furnished with rattan pieces. A pergola can also be integrated with an outdoor kitchen for seamless entertaining.
Why it works: A pergola defines the space, provides protection from the sun, and extends the usability of your pool area. It also adds architectural interest.
Pro tip: A pergola protects the pool from falling pine needles and adds a beautiful architectural element.
Tip: “A pergola adds shade, structure, and a touch of Scandinavian architectural elegance to your pool area.”
6. Use Modular, Weather-Resistant Furniture
Scandinavian outdoor furniture is designed to be beautiful, comfortable, and practical able to withstand the elements year-round.
What to do: Choose modular furniture that can be left outside year-round with minimal maintenance. The Bönan series from Swedish Skargaarden is a popular choice, designed to be practical and elegant. The Embrace outdoor lounge series from Carl Hansen & Søn offers clean lines and contemporary casualness for poolside settings.
Why it works: Modular furniture allows you to create customized seating arrangements that suit your space and needs. High-quality materials ensure durability and timeless style.
Pro tip: Combine materials like teak, rattan, and metal for a beautiful, layered look.
Tip: “Invest in modular, weather-resistant furniture that stays beautiful year-round Scandinavian practicality at its best.”
7. Create a Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow
The best Scandinavian pool areas feel like a natural extension of the home. A seamless indoor-outdoor flow enhances the sense of space and connection to nature.
What to do: Use large glass elements to connect the pool area with the interior. Local materials like concrete, natural stone, wood, and glass help create a harmonious transition. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto the pool deck create a fluid, open feel.
Why it works: A seamless flow makes entertaining effortless and creates a sense of spaciousness. It blurs the boundaries between inside and out.
Pro tip: Use similar materials and colors inside and out to create a cohesive design language.
Tip: “Glass doors and natural materials create a seamless indoor-outdoor flow the hallmark of Scandinavian design.”
8. Landscape with Native Plants and Stones
Landscaping is essential for integrating your pool area with the surrounding environment. Choose native plants and natural stones that complement the local landscape.
What to do: Use beach pebbles, lyme grass, and other native grasses that naturally grow in the area. Incorporate stone boulders that lead to the pool area, edged with cobbles and boulders. A wildflower meadow roof on a pergola or structure is a beautiful, eco-friendly option.
Why it works: Native plants require less maintenance and create a harmonious connection with the surrounding landscape. Natural stones add texture and grounding.
Pro tip: Meadow grass and stone boulders create a naturalistic landscape that feels like it’s always been there.
Tip: “Native grasses and natural stones create a landscape that feels like it belongs effortless, beautiful, and sustainable.”
9. Add Warm, Subtle Lighting
Lighting extends the use of your pool area into the evening and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. The Nordic approach to outdoor lighting is subtle and atmospheric.
What to do: Add lighting to the pool itself, as well as around the deck and landscaping. Use warm, soft lights that create a gentle glow rather than harsh illumination.
Why it works: Warm lighting transforms your pool area into a magical space for evening entertaining and relaxation.
Pro tip: Lighting “delivered the warm, harmonious tone the area needed to feel cohesive and refined from decking and pergolas to sun loungers and furniture details”.
Tip: “Warm, subtle lighting turns your pool area into a magical evening retreat pure Nordic ambiance.”
10. Keep It Minimal and Intentional
The most important Scandinavian design principle is also the most powerful: less is more. A clutter-free pool area feels calm, spacious, and inviting.
The 30% rule: After you’ve styled your pool area, remove 30% of the items. What remains will feel calm and intentional.
What to keep: Comfortable seating, a few well-chosen plants, one or two decorative objects. Avoid overcrowding the space with too many loungers or accessories.
Why it works: Less visual noise creates a more peaceful, relaxing environment. It’s the essence of Scandinavian design.
Tip: “A minimalist pool area is a peaceful pool area. Keep only what you love and use.”
Personal Experience: What I Learned Creating My Own Scandi Pool Area
When I started planning my pool area, I was overwhelmed by the options. I wanted it to feel like a Nordic retreat, but I wasn’t sure how to achieve that look. I started with the basics: a wooden deck, a pergola, and some comfortable furniture. I added a few plants and some warm lighting. The transformation was amazing my pool area went from a functional space to a serene oasis.
What worked:
- Starting small: I didn’t try to do everything at once. I started with the essentials and added over time.
- Choosing natural materials: Wood and stone created a warm, grounded feel.
- Adding a pergola: It provided shade and defined the space.
- Keeping it minimal: A few well-chosen pieces were more impactful than a cluttered space.
The result: My pool area is now my favorite place to relax and entertain. It’s a true Nordic outdoor oasis.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Cheap Materials
Cheap materials won’t last. Invest in quality wood, stone, and furniture.
Ignoring the Landscape
A pool area that doesn’t connect to the surrounding landscape feels disconnected. Use native plants and natural materials.
Overcrowding the Space
A cluttered pool area feels chaotic, not relaxing. Keep it minimal and intentional.
Forgetting Shade
Without shade, your pool area becomes unusable during peak sun hours. Add a pergola or umbrella.
Skipping Warm Lighting
Without lighting, your pool area is unusable after sunset. Add warm, subtle lights.
BONUS: Scandinavian Pool Area Quick Checklist
- Natural materials – wood, stone, and locally sourced elements
- Natural pool (ekopool) – chemical-free, biological filtration
- Wooden deck – warm, natural, and spacious
- Sauna – the ultimate Nordic wellness feature
- Pergola – shade, structure, and architectural interest
- Modular furniture – weather-resistant and comfortable
- Indoor-outdoor flow – seamless transition with glass and natural materials
- Native landscaping – grasses, stones, and local plants
- Warm lighting – subtle and atmospheric
- Minimalist approach – the 30% rule
Table of Contents
How do I make a small pool area feel more spacious?
Keep the layout simple and avoid overcrowding it with furniture. Use a clean-lined deck, compact modular seating, light neutral colors, and minimal landscaping. Keeping clear walking areas around the pool can also make a small space feel more open.
What plants work well around a Scandinavian-style pool?
Choose native grasses, meadow plants, simple greenery, and natural stones that complement the surrounding landscape. Native plants are particularly useful because they can require less maintenance while helping the pool area feel naturally integrated with its surroundings.
How can I make my pool area feel cozy at night?
Use warm, subtle lighting around the pool, deck, plants, and seating areas rather than bright floodlights. Add a pergola, comfortable outdoor furniture, and natural materials to create a relaxed Nordic atmosphere that works well for evening entertaining and relaxation.
Live lighter. Live Scandi.
