Pool Deck Furniture Ideas for Homeowners

Water sparkles as the sun warms the day, its light reflecting off the crystalline blue of the pool. Whether you’re going for a daily dip or just lounging poolside, few things match the pleasures of enjoying a summer day spent outside by the water. 

And while perfecting your butterfly stroke or floating on a raft offers the perfect way to cool off, relaxing or dining near the pool is delightful too. Whether you’re relaxing, hosting a dinner, or just drying off after your daily laps, you’ll want to select the right outdoor seating. Here are a few pool deck furniture ideas you can incorporate into your pool space: 

When it comes to pool deck furniture types on your deck or patio near the pool, consider the following:

How do you plan to use your pool deck?

• Do you anticipate plenty of poolside lounging or entertaining? If so, you may want comfy chairs or a small loveseat and a coffee table.
• Is the space only going to be used for your family to throw towels down and dry off? Choose something functional, like chaise lounge chairs or dining chairs, that can withstand soggy towels and soaked kids. 
• If you plan on plenty of poolside suppers, select the right-sized dining table and chairs for the pool area.

• It may be three chaise lounges facing the pool, 
• a ring of Adirondack chairs set around an outdoor fire pit table near the pool.
• For a large dining space, try a long table and chairs to host meals with family and friends.

When planning out your space, make sure you have storage for pool toys, chemicals, testing kits, skimmers, and covers. 

• Opt for benches and tables with built-in storage space to hold cushions and decor in the off-season. 
• Store items in a ventilated space out of the sun to keep them protected.
• Prevent mold and mildew growth by letting items dry before putting them away.

As you know, not all outdoor furniture is created equally in terms of quality or construction. Here’s a look at some common pool deck furniture materials and fabrics.

If you love wood furniture and want to add it to your pool deck for a classic aesthetic, make sure you know what type of wood furniture you’re purchasing. You’ll want to select hardy designs that will last season after season. Look for woods like cedar, teak, and white oak—all of which are more resistant to rot and moisture than other woods out there. To keep any wood looking new season after season, consider sealing the furniture at least once a year and moving it to storage during the winter.

The classic weave of wicker is beautiful, but wicker does require more cleaning than, say a traditional wood piece, given its pattern. Make sure you regularly clean the crevices of the wicker, using both a vacuum and a toothbrush to get out any dirt and debris so the wicker won’t begin to mildew or rot. For more resilient wicker, consider a synthetic or resin version that better resists the fading from harsh sunlight and doesn’t break down as quickly as traditional wicker. 

Wrought iron and other materials like aluminum, steel, and metal can withstand the chlorinated or saline environments of a pool area. Sturdy and long-lasting, wrought iron and other metals do fall prey to rust, so gently brushing away any corrosion and touching up spots where paint has chipped away is crucial to keeping these pieces in good shape.

HDPE plastic is a win-win for any poolside scenario. When you purchase pieces made with recyclable materials, you’re preventing waste and getting a material that requires very little maintenance and upkeep. Other than inspecting the hardware to keep rust or corrosion at bay, furniture made from HDPE plastic fits the bill of easy-to-care-for poolside pieces. 

Your patio or deck space will dictate the furniture arrangement around your pool. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• For the ultimate lounging experience, nothing is better than a pair or a trio of chaise lounge chairs. Position them to look out over the pool, and add a side table between each to place a drink, a bottle of sunscreen, or a book. 
• Did you know that you can create a spring and summertime living space right by your pool? Arrange a small loveseat, two club chairs, and a coffee table or occasional table by the pool. Rather than angling everything toward a TV or mantel as you would inside, position the vignette toward the water. 
• When the weather is warm, nothing is better than dining alfresco. Enjoy delicious fare outdoors in the evening, watching as the sun sinks below the horizon and the lights in and around your pool provide peak ambiance. Place your dining table and chairs alongside your pool. 
• Add a fire pit to your pool patio to create a resort-style backyard oasis. While the kids launch cannonballs into the water, you can arrange four to six Adirondack or rocking chairs around a round fire pit and enjoy the gentle crackling and warmth of the fire. 

The right furnishings are essential for your pool space, but go the extra mile with outdoor accessories that take your pieces to a luxurious level and a few protocols to keep everyone safe near the water. 

You’ll want to linger longer poolside when your chaise or chair has comfortable cushioning. Bolster your outdoor sofa’s comfort with throw pillows. Just make sure you choose cushioning and fabrics suitable for outdoor use.

Shade yourself and your guests from the hot sun and UV rays by adding a patio umbrella over a dining table or lounge space. 

Winter and fall bring leaves, snow, and other debris to your pool area. If you know you won’t be using your deck or patio space, get the most life out of your furniture and accessories by storing them somewhere safe when they’re not in regular use. 

Pool ownership is a big responsibility. Make sure you check with local ordinances on safety measures. Many places, for instance, require a fence around the pool or your yard. If you have young kids or host them at your pool, make sure you have safety precautions in place.