We did this exact thing! We had the PB use all the "included" Kooldeck on one side that we use the most, and put stamped concrete around the edges that we never would get out on.

We also built a 12x16 patio and built a BBQ island on it. It looks wonderful!

Good luck to you, you will be happy with whatever you decide!

Here are pics of the pool build and decking and of the patio build.

It's beautiful! Where did you find that concrete frame for your BBQ island? I love the mosaic accent on the island. That is a nice touch.
Your pool deck area looks similar to what I have in mind. I am going to get out in the yard (when Gustav finally lets us dry off) and mark it out with a garden hose until I like it.

I would say that it depends on the style of your pool. Is it a traditional rectangle? If it is then I would say that you should have equal on each side. If it is a lagoon/freeform, then that gives the freedom to have it be different. We were talking to a pool builder last night and he suggested just the basic 2 ft. in the back, that way the kids have something to walk on but that is all it is for. We had 3 ft. on our other pool and it was a little much. We didn't need that much for a walk way. I also don't like the rolled bond beam or foot wide flagstone because that doesn't give you anything to walk on. I know some people don't care, but my kids played on every bit of that deck.

So, if you have a freeform, put the deck where you would get the most use. You will be much happier in the end.

==(ie, 3 ft one side could give me 7 feet on the other, etc)==

We have 3'-6" decking around one side of our pool to get to the slide and it's OK, but any less would feel uncomfortable I think. Especially if two people are passing in opposite directions.

==We ARE going to have a separate patio area that will flow into the decking, so the decking will not be our main "sitting around enjoying the pool area" space.==

It's still a good idea to have one or two seating areas around the pool. We have a covered patio, an open patio, a gazebo and three seating areas next to the pool as well. We've had several parties and people love sitting right next to the pool, especially adults if their kids are swimming. Plus it's nice to have a wider area somewhere so that the kids can lay out on towels. If you integrate a seating area next to the pool don't forget to account for circulation space too. IE- a lounger is about 6' long but requires 9' to 10' to allow space to walk around it.

Thanks, those are both great suggestions. My pool will be an oval shape, almost rectangular. I don't want to go less than 3 feet for the reasons tresw mentioned.
Do either of you have pics?