How to Design a Pool Area for Entertaining | La Riviera Studios, Palm Springs landscape design
Outdoor Living · 5 min read

How to Design a Pool Area for Entertaining

Zoning, shade, lighting and furnishing ideas for a pool area built for gathering, dining and relaxing in the desert.

A pool area built for entertaining is about more than the pool. It is about shade, flow, lighting and comfortable places to gather. Here is how we design them.

Zone for gathering

Great entertaining spaces have distinct zones: a lounge by the water, a dining area, a shaded retreat and room to move between them. Clear flow keeps a party comfortable.

Plan shade and comfort

In the desert, shade is essential. Pergolas, umbrellas, trees and covered areas make the pool area usable through the hottest part of the day, not just in the evening.

Light it for the evening

Layered lighting on the water, paths, planting and architecture turns the pool area into the heart of evening entertaining.

Furnish for the moment

Loungers, dining sets, fire features and soft styling complete the space. The right furnishings invite people to stay.

Frequently asked questions

We design the full pool environment, the terrace, planting, shade, lighting and furnishing, and coordinate with the right trades for the build.

More than the pool footprint. Room for dining, lounging and circulation is what makes a space work for gatherings.

Yes. We often reimagine the area around an existing pool with new hardscape, planting, shade and furnishing.

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