No room for a pool? That’s what you think. The tiny home may be all the rage, but it has nothing on tiny pools. Perfect for yards with less than ample space, a mini pool can give you everything you want, even if you don’t have acres of land to build it on.

“You don’t have to have a big backyard to fit in a pool – and if you do have a big backyard, the pool doesn’t have to take up the entire thing.

Choose from these three main types of small pools for inspiration.

The spool

“If you are looking to have a luxurious backyard but have a limited space to work with, you might be in the market for a Spool,” said Klein Custom Pools. “A Spool, or a Cocktail Pool, is a small swimming pool design created as a solution to having a relaxing swimming pool fit for a small backyard or limited space.”

This spool may be short on size, but certainly not on style…or function. The large shelf area affords lounging without getting completely submerged, and, with the in-water barstools, you’ll feel like you’re on vacation every day.

Trying to figure out how to design a courtyard area that could feel less than hospitable thanks to the tall brick walls? Decking that runs up the walls, lush landscaping, and the cleverly located and shaped spool turn this small yard into a showstopper.

In this desert backyard, the curved shape of the spool breaks up the straight lines, the extended steps provide a place to relax, and the fountain helps circulate the water, which can help keep it cool even on the warmest days.

A narrow yard gets the tropical treatment. This small pool proves that getting creative with shapes and textures can help overcome a lack of depth in your outdoor area.

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