Small Backyard? No Problem! Compact Pool Solutions for Murfreesboro Homes
"I'd love a pool, but my backyard is too small." We hear this all the time from homeowners throughout Murfreesboro and Middle Tennessee. Here's the thing – we've installed beautiful pools in backyards that seemed impossibly small at first glance. Just last month, we transformed a tiny yard in a historic Murfreesboro neighborhood into a stunning retreat that feels like a resort. The secret isn't having a huge yard; it's knowing how to maximize the space you have and choosing the right pool design for your lifestyle.
Rethinking "Too Small"
What Really Counts as Small?
When we talk about small backyards, we're usually looking at properties where the usable space is less than 1,000 square feet total, or where the buildable area (considering setbacks and utilities) is quite limited. In Murfreesboro's established neighborhoods, many homes have backyards that are 30x40 feet or smaller – and we've successfully installed pools in spaces much tighter than that.
The Mindset Shift
The key is changing how you think about your pool. Instead of trying to fit a large pool into a small space, we design pools that make small spaces feel larger and more luxurious. It's about creating an experience, not just adding water to your yard.
Success Stories That Surprise
We've installed pools in backyards where neighbors said it couldn't be done. Narrow lots between houses, yards with challenging slopes, and spaces that seemed impossibly tight. The common thread in all these successful projects? Homeowners who were willing to think creatively about their space.
Compact Pool Shapes That Work Magic
The Modern Rectangle
Don't overlook simple rectangles – they're incredibly space-efficient and create clean, contemporary lines that make small spaces feel larger. A 12x24 foot rectangle can provide serious swimming space while leaving room for lounging areas.
We recently installed a 14x28 foot rectangular fiberglass pool in a Murfreesboro backyard that's only 35x45 feet total. The clean lines and strategic placement made the yard feel more spacious, not cramped.
The Classic Kidney
Kidney-shaped pools work beautifully in small spaces because the curves create visual interest without wasting square footage. The curved edges also soften the feel of a compact yard, making everything seem more natural and flowing.
The Cocktail Pool (Spool)
These are perfect for really tight spaces – typically 10-16 feet long and 6-8 feet wide. They're deeper than regular pools (usually 4-5 feet throughout) and can include spa features like jets and heating. Think of it as a large spa that you can actually swim in.
Freeform Compact Designs
Some of our most successful small backyard pools use gentle curves and strategic shaping to maximize swimming space while creating interesting sight lines that make the yard feel bigger than it is.
Clever Design Tricks for Small Spaces
Strategic Placement is Everything
Where you put your pool matters more in a small yard than a large one. We consider:
- Sun exposure throughout the day
- Privacy from neighbors
- Views from your house
- Access for equipment and maintenance
- Remaining yard space for other activities
Sometimes moving a pool just a few feet in one direction transforms the entire feel of your outdoor space.
Vertical Elements Add Drama
When you can't go wide, go up! Water features like fountains, spillways, or raised spas draw the eye upward and create the illusion of more space. We've used everything from simple bubblers to dramatic waterfalls to make small pools feel grand.
Multi-Level Magic
Raised spas, elevated decking, or stepped pool entry areas create visual layers that make small spaces feel more complex and interesting. Your eye travels through different levels instead of seeing everything at once.
Integrated Seating
Built-in benches, tanning ledges, or swim-up seating areas serve double duty – they provide functionality while using space efficiently. Instead of separate patio furniture, these features are part of the pool design itself.
Making Small Yards Feel Larger
The Infinity Effect
While full infinity pools might not fit your budget or space, we can create similar visual effects with raised walls or spillovers that make your pool seem to extend beyond its actual boundaries.
Strategic Landscaping
The right plants and hardscaping can make your pool area feel like it extends well beyond your actual property lines. We work with landscapers to create sight lines and focal points that expand the visual space.
Lighting for Space
Proper lighting doesn't just make your pool usable at night – it can dramatically expand how large your space feels after dark. LED lights, uplighting on plants, and pathway lighting create depth and dimension.
Color and Material Choices
Light-colored pool finishes reflect more light and make pools feel larger. Similarly, using consistent materials for decking and coping creates visual continuity that expands the perceived space.
Maximizing Every Square Foot
Dual-Purpose Features
In small yards, every element needs to work harder. Consider:
- Tanning ledges that double as seating areas
- Pool steps that include storage compartments
- Equipment areas that are also outdoor storage
- Retaining walls that become seating or planting areas
Smart Pool Equipment Placement
Pool equipment takes up space, but it doesn't have to dominate your yard. We're experts at tucking equipment into corners, behind landscaping, or in custom enclosures that blend with your design.
Decking That Works
The area around your pool is just as important as the pool itself. In small yards, every square foot of decking needs to be functional. We design decking that provides lounging space, dining areas, and circulation paths without feeling cramped.
Real Murfreesboro Small Yard Success Stories
The Historic Neighborhood Challenge
We worked with a family in one of Murfreesboro's older neighborhoods where the backyard was only 28x35 feet total. The solution? A 12x20 foot kidney-shaped pool with an integrated spa and waterfall feature. The curved design and vertical water element made the space feel like a resort courtyard.
The Narrow Lot Solution
A newer subdivision home had a backyard that was 50 feet long but only 25 feet wide. We installed a 12x32 foot rectangular pool that ran parallel to the house, leaving a 13-foot strip for lounging and landscaping. The long, narrow pool actually made the yard feel larger by emphasizing the length.
The Sloped Yard Transformation
One challenging project involved a backyard that sloped dramatically from the house to the back fence. Instead of fighting the slope, we used it to our advantage with a raised pool and retaining walls that created multiple outdoor living levels. The pool became the centerpiece of a terraced outdoor space.
The Corner Lot Creative Solution
A corner lot home had privacy challenges and an oddly shaped yard. We designed a kidney-shaped pool that curved around existing mature trees and used strategic fencing and landscaping to create a private oasis that felt completely secluded despite being in a busy neighborhood.
Small Pool, Big Features
Heating Systems
Smaller pools heat faster and cost less to maintain at comfortable temperatures. This means you can extend your swimming season significantly without breaking the budget on utility bills.
Lighting Options
LED lighting systems can transform small pools into dramatic nighttime focal points. Color-changing lights, underwater features, and coordinated landscape lighting create ambiance that makes your small space feel like a luxury resort.
Water Features
Don't think you have to skip water features because your pool is small. In fact, water features often work better in compact pools because they create a bigger impact relative to the overall space. Popular options include:
- Deck jets that arch into the pool
- Spillover spas that create movement and sound
- Sheer descent waterfalls that add elegance
- Bubblers and fountains for gentle water movement
Automation Systems
Smart pool controls make even more sense with smaller pools because there's less equipment to manage, but you still want the convenience of controlling everything from your phone.
Avoiding Small Yard Mistakes
Don't Overwhelm the Space
The biggest mistake we see is trying to cram too much into a small area. It's better to have a beautifully proportioned small pool than a large pool that dominates your entire yard.
Consider Your Neighbors
In small yards, privacy becomes more important. Plan for screening, fencing, or landscaping that gives you the privacy you want without making your space feel closed in.
Think About Maintenance Access
Pool equipment needs regular maintenance, and cleaning equipment needs storage. Make sure your design includes practical considerations for long-term pool care.
Don't Forget Drainage
Small yards often have drainage challenges that become more complicated with pool installation. We always address drainage issues as part of the design process.
Budget Considerations for Small Pools
Size Doesn't Always Mean Savings
While smaller pools use less materials, the per-square-foot cost might actually be higher because you still need the same equipment, permits, and installation processes. However, the overall project cost will definitely be lower.
Feature Value
In small pools, every feature has more impact. Spending money on quality finishes, lighting, or a water feature often provides better value than in larger pools where these elements can get lost.
Long-Term Value
Small pools often provide better return on investment because they add significant lifestyle value without overwhelming your property. They're also less expensive to maintain long-term.
Financing Considerations
Smaller pool projects are often easier to finance and fit into family budgets. The lower overall cost makes pools accessible to homeowners who thought they couldn't afford one.
The Small Yard Advantage
Faster Installation
Smaller pools typically install faster because there's less excavation, less concrete or fiberglass to install, and less backfilling required.
Lower Operating Costs
Smaller pools require fewer chemicals, less energy to heat and circulate, and less water to maintain. Your ongoing costs will be significantly lower than larger pools.
Easier Maintenance
There's simply less pool to clean, balance, and maintain. Many small pool owners find they can handle all the maintenance themselves with minimal time investment.
More Intimate Setting
Small pools create cozy, intimate spaces that are perfect for relaxation and small gatherings. Sometimes bigger isn't better – it's just bigger.
Working with Murfreesboro's Unique Challenges
Established Neighborhoods
Many of Murfreesboro's older neighborhoods have smaller lot sizes, mature trees, and challenging access. We have extensive experience working in these areas and know how to handle the unique challenges they present.
HOA Considerations
Some neighborhoods have specific requirements about pool size, placement, or appearance. We're familiar with local HOA regulations and can help navigate any approval processes.
Utility Challenges
Smaller lots often mean utilities are closer together, which can complicate pool placement. Our experience with local utility layouts helps us design around these challenges.
Soil and Drainage
Tennessee's clay soil and small lot drainage issues require careful planning. We know how to handle these challenges to ensure your pool installation goes smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the smallest pool you can install?
We can install pools as small as 8x12 feet (spools), though 10x16 feet is more common for compact spaces. The key is finding the right size for your space and lifestyle.
Will a small pool add value to my home?
Yes! Small pools often provide better return on investment because they add significant lifestyle value without overwhelming the property. They're also appealing to a broader range of future buyers.
Can I add features to a small pool later?
Many features can be added after installation, including lighting, heating, water features, and automation systems. It's most cost-effective to include major features during installation.
How do you handle equipment in small yards?
We're experts at finding creative solutions for equipment placement, including compact equipment packages, strategic landscaping to hide equipment, and custom enclosures.
What about privacy in small yards?
Privacy is crucial for small pool installations. We work with landscapers and fencing contractors to create solutions that provide privacy without making spaces feel cramped.
Your Small Yard Pool Journey Starts Here
Don't let a small backyard keep you from enjoying the pool lifestyle you've been dreaming about. Some of our most successful and beautiful installations have been in compact spaces where creativity and expertise made the impossible possible.
The key is working with pool builders who understand how to maximize small spaces and have experience with the unique challenges that Murfreesboro properties present. We've transformed hundreds of small backyards into stunning outdoor retreats, and we'd love to show you what's possible for your space.
Ready to discover what's possible in your small backyard? Contact Majestic Swim today at (615) 691-2500 for your free consultation. We'll evaluate your space, discuss your vision, and show you exactly how we can create the perfect pool for your property – regardless of size.
Your backyard paradise is closer than you think!
About Majestic Swim: We specialize in maximizing small spaces and creating stunning pool installations throughout Middle Tennessee. Our experience with compact yard challenges makes us the perfect choice for homeowners who thought their backyards were too small for pools.
Disclaimer: Pool installation in small yards may require creative solutions and specialized approaches. Individual results depend on specific property conditions, local regulations, and site constraints. All size and cost estimates are approximate and subject to site evaluation and local requirements.




