Some things just naturally go together — peanut butter and jelly, Hall and Oates. Outdoor kitchens and pools are one of those dynamic duos.

Let’s say you’re hosting a summer pool party. Without having to dry off and head inside for a beverage or a snack, guests can easily find what they need poolside. Meanwhile, the grillmaster can keep socializing with family and friends and keep an eye on the kids as well as those ribeyes.

When it comes to backyard kitchen and pool design and layout, there are countless options. That variety affords plenty of room for creativity and flexible designs that suit all types of spaces.

A Resort-Style Swim-Up Bar

Swim-up bars are a staple at many resorts. By recreating this magic in your backyard, you can create the feel of being on vacation without ever having to board a flight (or deal with airport security.) Most often, pools will be equipped with built-in bar stools that jut up to the outdoor kitchen.There’s also the option to use built-in benches as an alternative underwater seat, too.

swim up bar backyard pool

Source: Pinterest

A Pub-Style Atmosphere

It’s not an uncommon scenario for the timing of a pool party to overlap with the timing of your home team’s big game. When your outdoor kitchen is equipped with a TV, there’s no need to choose between the two. While those folks splashing around or relaxing in the pool can catch glimpses of the game, bar-style seating around the outdoor kitchen creates the feel of being at your favorite outdoor bar. You don’t have to wait for a seat!

backyard pool and kitchen

Source: Pinterest

An All-Around Modern Escape

While compact grills and minimal counter space were once the norm in outdoor kitchens, modern designs have evolved significantly to include top-quality stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and other amenities like pizza ovens. Modern aesthetics complement modern pool design, creating an attractive scenario. Opt for a timeless rectangular design with a tanning ledge, or a freeform-style pool with a built-in spa — either of which make for a strong contemporary combination.

unilock kitchen and pool

Source: Unilock

A Space-Saving Combination

Just because space is at a premium in a backyard doesn’t mean you have to choose between an outdoor kitchen or a pool. Instead, you can pair a plunge-style pool with a compact kitchen. With must-haves like a grill, counter space, a sink, storage drawers, and a built-in refrigerator, you’ll have everything you need on-site to prepare meals and cater to guest needs. Typically used for wading or relaxing, plunge pools are often equipped with built-in benches or shallow ledges. In lieu of room for seating around the pool, these perches help maximize your outdoor space.

plunge pool plus outdoor kitchen

Source: Pinterest

Whatever backyard pool and outdoor kitchen combination you decide on for your Northeast Ohio backyard, Blue Impressions can partner with you through the design and installation process. Our team combines landscape expertise with high-quality Latham Pool products to create a resort-like experience that makes your backyard hard to leave. Contact us for an estimate.