Our 10 Favorite Pools

Summer is just around the corner! In celebration, we’ve gathered some of our favorite mid mod pools for inspiration from backyards to hotels.

mid century pools — Photo by Kevin McDermott.

What’s not to love here? Everything’s just right–from the kidney-shaped pool, firepit, playful retro fabric, and the classic flamingo floatie.

North Carolina pool — Northern Sea Oats grow in gray planters along one side of the block wall. “My husband is really the green thumb, and he chose them for their texture, modern appeal and striking bright color against our dark house,” homeowner Holly Schoolmeester says. “In the winter they turn a lovely light beige, and the ‘oats’ rustle in the wind.” Photo by Bret Gum.

Now here’s a backyard you’ll never want to leave! From the fountains along the pool wall to the planters to the breeze block borders to the orange recliners, everything is inviting and well-selected. Learn more about this North Carolina backyard here.

Desert modern backyard in Palm Springs — The couple has big plans for their backyard. After discovering that they have the option to push their back fence out 20 feet to capture an easement, they started dreaming of an outdoor dining space, new landscaping and a spa. Photo by Chad Mellon.

This Wexler-designed, Alexander-built home is another Palm Springs vacation home with a pool befitting the home’s vacation vibe. The landscaping surrounding the pool contributes to the sense of being in a desert oasis.

desert eichler pool — “We opted to have a larger pool with a tanning shelf…” says homeowner Linda. “The pool has three pencil jets for ambience, as well as a large luxurious spa alongside the pool.” Photo by Greyshock & Dupont Photography.

This new-build Eichler in the desert has a fabulous pool with a jacuzzi and tanning shelf.

the backyard of a charles du bois in palm springs with a pool — Photo by Kelly Peak Photography.

This stunning Charles Du Bois home has an equally stunning pool with a square fountain and plenty of poolside seating options. See more of this dreamy backyard here.

Backyard landscape and design — Designed and constructed by Falling Waters Landscape, the goal was to create a verdant and tropical sanctuary for the client. Photo courtesy of Falling Waters Landscape.

We’re suckers for mosaic tile. The shimmering greens and teals in contrast to the warm wood and firepit makes this pool in Encinitas, California swoon-worthy.

Palm Springs pool — The outdoor space is a favorite of the homeowners. “I always gravitate to the patio,” says Blaine. “The palm-tree-peppered gold course view is gorgeous; it’s literally on the sixth tee, yet it is hedged and secluded in complete privacy.” Photo by Marni Epstein-Mervis.

We love the way the pool extends the lines of the house–and of course the Palm Springs location is also a plus. See more of this Palm Springs vacation home here.

Hotel Pools

A pool in Miami Beach with a view to the ocean sounds like a great way to shake off the cobwebs and cabin fever in mid mod style. Read more about The Standard Hotel here.

SurfJack e feat — The Surfjack Hotel includes amenities such as the Swim Club, which includes a dive bar and open air movie screenings. Photo courtesy of The Surfjack Hotel and Swim Club.

Located on Waikiki, The Surfjack Hotel and Swim Club is a tropical mid mod getaway with a postcard-worthy pool. Find out more about the hotel here.

Hotel Valley Ho pool — Photography by Hotel Valley Ho.

Take a break from the desert heat at Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale, Arizona. Originally built in 1956, the hotel was restored and reopened in 2005 with modern amenities that blend seamlessly with original details and mid century style. Find out more about this hotel and more in Retro Hotel Finds for the Mid Century Road Tripper.

Stay tuned for more backyard and exterior ideas throughout the season. In the meantime, find more backyard design inspo from this Backyard Paradise: California Desert and Brazil Inspired Tropics. Don’t miss our summer issue for more MCM summertime vibes! Pre-order your copy here.