A backyard pool is every child's dream — it doesn’t get better than splashing in the water between snacks and popsicles on a hot summer day. While this dream may feel far fetched for those without a pool now, it’s actually quite doable, even with a small yard. Whether you’ve got big plans to build a massive swimming pool or you’re simply yearning for a modest place to take a quick dip, the following backyard pool ideas are here to help get you started.

Find the Right Fit

Swimming pools are not a one-size-fits-all deal. You’ll need to do some careful planning to maximize a backyard pool design that suits your particular space. It doesn’t have to be huge if all you want is a place to dip in and cool off. In this case, a small, round or square pool shape can fit perfectly in the tiniest of spaces without feeling overbearing. If lap swimming is more your style, you’ll need a long enough run to make it worth your while, but luckily it can be in a fairly narrow spot. For odd-shaped backyards, have a swimming pool designer help you work out a freeform shape that feels organic and like it belongs. Keep in mind, if you have small children, leave room for a safety fence so that they cannot access the pool without adult supervision.

Add Fun Features

What’s a backyard swimming pool without a playful feature or two? Go ahead and fulfill your childhood dreams by adding the things that turn a body of water into a full-blown water park. Here are a few fun ideas to create a fantasy pool in your own backyard:

• Water slide
• Fountain
• Waterfall
• Diving board
• Built-in grotto
• Poolside basketball hoop
• Swim-up bar
• Shallow sun deck

Also consider how accessibility can be made into unique design features, like swapping traditional pool steps for a gradually sloped entry or a sandy beach-like edge. Let your imagination run wild when designing your pool!

Create Some Shade

You’ll need to take a break from the sun eventually, but with a little planning you can still enjoy those poolside views. Prop up a large umbrella for shade either next to your pool or directly over it. Make it mobile so you can shade different areas of your backyard depending on the time of day. Another great way to incorporate shady spots in your swimming pool design is through landscaping. Use tall, wide plants placed strategically around the yard to create cooler spots that double as decor. Outdoor structures, such as pergolas, gazebos and shade sails are also great additions to any backyard with a pool. If you want in-pool shade and a little privacy, build a cave-like grotto into the design — we promise it will be fun for kids and adults alike.

Deck It Out

A properly designed pool deck is just as important as the pool itself. Give yourself space for at least one or two lounge chairs and a small side table to hold a cool drink. If you have a larger footprint to work with, create your own poolside dining with an outdoor dining table and chairs. Choose a hardscaping, like concrete, wood decking or even grass for your pool deck that will suit your climate and design tastes. Avoid anything slick to keep the risk of slipping to a minimum.