Imagine transforming your above ground pool area into a charming space that encapsulates the nostalgic charm of the past. With a few simple touches, you can bring a retro revival to your poolside oasis. By incorporating vintage vibes into your outdoor space, you can create a unique and inviting atmosphere that will transport you back in time. From retro-inspired pool accessories to vintage-inspired furniture, this article will guide you on how to infuse your above ground pool area with a touch of old-world charm. Get ready to enjoy the ultimate blend of modern convenience and classic aesthetics in your very own retro retreat.
Choosing a Vintage Theme
Selecting a specific era
When it comes to incorporating a vintage theme into your above ground pool area, it’s important to start by selecting a specific era that you want to emulate. Do you prefer the elegance of the 1920s, the fun and bright colors of the 1950s, or perhaps the bohemian vibes of the 1970s? Choosing a specific era will help guide your design choices and create a cohesive vintage look.
Researching vintage pool designs
To truly capture the essence of a bygone era, it’s crucial to do some research on vintage pool designs. Take a deep dive into the archives and explore old photographs, magazines, and books that showcase pools from your chosen era. Look for unique shapes, patterns, and features that can inspire your own pool design. Whether it’s a kidney-shaped pool or an Art Deco-inspired design, there are plenty of options to choose from!
Considering color schemes
Color plays a significant role in conveying a vintage feel. Once you’ve settled on a specific era, consider the color schemes that were popular during that time. For example, if you’re going for a 1950s theme, pastel hues like mint green, baby blue, and coral are perfect choices. If you prefer a 1970s bohemian vibe, earthy tones and bold patterns can help recreate that aesthetic. Selecting the right color scheme will help tie all the elements of your vintage pool area together.
Adding Retro Furniture
Opting for vintage patio furniture
To truly embrace the vintage theme, consider opting for vintage patio furniture. Look for pieces from your chosen era, such as wrought iron bistro sets or iconic mid-century modern pieces. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles to add visual interest and create a unique look for your pool area.
Choosing complementary colors
When selecting retro furniture, it’s essential to choose complementary colors that work harmoniously with your pool and the overall vintage aesthetic. If your pool features a bold color like turquoise or pink, consider furniture in neutral tones to create a balanced look. On the other hand, if your pool has a more subdued color, you can add pops of vibrant colors through your furniture to create a playful and retro vibe.
Mixing modern and vintage pieces
A fun approach to incorporating retro furniture is by mixing modern and vintage pieces. This combination adds a contemporary twist to the vintage theme while still maintaining a cohesive look. For example, pair a sleek, modern lounger with a vintage-inspired side table or use contemporary outdoor seating with a retro-style umbrella. This blend of old and new creates a unique and inviting pool area that is sure to impress.
This image is property of i.pinimg.com.
Vintage Pool Accessories
Installing a retro-style diving board
One iconic vintage pool accessory that can instantly transport you back in time is a retro-style diving board. Choose a diving board design that complements your pool’s era. For a 1950s theme, look for a diving board with sleek lines and a vibrant color. If you’re aiming for a 1970s aesthetic, consider a diving board with earthy tones and retro patterns. Installing a retro-style diving board not only adds a touch of nostalgia but also enhances the overall vintage look of your pool area.
Adding a poolside cabana
A poolside cabana is a fantastic addition to your vintage pool area. Opt for a design that reflects the era you’ve chosen, whether it’s a cabana with vibrant stripes for a 1960s beachy vibe or a bohemian-inspired canopy for a 1970s look. A poolside cabana not only provides shade and a spot to relax but also adds that extra touch of vintage charm.
Incorporating vintage pool toys
What’s a pool area without some fun pool toys? Incorporating vintage pool toys is a playful way to enhance the vintage theme of your pool area. Look for classic pool toys like colorful beach balls, vintage-inspired floaties, and retro water guns. These nostalgic pieces will not only add a sense of joy but also complete the vintage aesthetic of your pool area.
Creating a Retro Pool Deck
Exploring materials like stone or brick
When it comes to the pool deck, exploring materials like stone or brick can help create a retro look. These materials were popular in past eras and can add a touch of timeless elegance to your pool area. Consider using pavers or tiles in different patterns to create visual interest and capture the essence of vintage design.
Adding a mosaic tile border
Another way to incorporate a retro touch into your pool deck is by adding a mosaic tile border. Mosaic tiles were popular during various vintage eras and can instantly elevate the look of your pool area. Choose tiles in colors that complement your pool and overall theme. Whether it’s a simple geometric pattern or a more intricate design, a mosaic tile border will add a touch of vintage charm to your pool deck.
Incorporating retro patterns
In addition to the materials used, incorporating retro patterns into your pool deck can further enhance the vintage theme. Look for patterns that were popular during your chosen era, such as geometric designs or bold florals. Use these patterns in your pool deck furniture cushions, throw pillows, or even in the design of the deck itself. By incorporating retro patterns, you’ll create a cohesive and visually striking pool area.
This image is property of clickamericana.com.
Selecting Retro Lighting
Choosing vintage-style outdoor lighting
Selecting the right lighting is essential to fully capture the vintage vibe in your pool area. Opt for vintage-style outdoor lighting fixtures, such as lanterns or wall sconces, that were popular during your chosen era. These fixtures often feature ornate details and soft, warm lighting that creates a nostalgic ambiance. Choose lighting pieces that complement the overall design of your pool area and create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Opting for string lights or lanterns
String lights or lanterns can add a magical touch to your vintage pool area. Hang string lights overhead or from nearby trees to create a whimsical glow in the evenings. Lanterns can be placed on poolside tables or along the pool deck, providing both functional and decorative lighting. Opting for string lights or lanterns in vintage-inspired designs will add an enchanting and timeless element to your pool area.
Adding underwater pool lights
To truly make your vintage pool area enchanting at night, consider adding underwater pool lights. These lights can be installed to illuminate the entire pool, creating a captivating glow that showcases the beauty of the water. Choose lights in warm tones to enhance the vintage atmosphere and make your pool area a focal point even after the sun sets.
Vintage Pool Artwork
Displaying retro posters or advertisements
Displaying retro posters or advertisements around your pool area can be a unique way to express your chosen vintage theme. Look for posters or advertisements from the era you’ve selected that feature pool-related imagery or vintage graphics. Frame them and hang them on the walls or place them on vintage-inspired easels. These pieces of artwork will not only contribute to the overall aesthetics but also serve as great conversation starters.
Hanging vintage-inspired artwork
In addition to retro posters and advertisements, hanging vintage-inspired artwork can enhance the visual appeal of your pool area. Look for paintings, prints, or photographs that reflect the spirit of your chosen era. Whether it’s a serene beach scene or a vibrant pop art piece, carefully curated artwork adds a touch of sophistication and cultural nostalgia to your vintage pool area.
Using pool-themed retro signs
Pool-themed retro signs are another fantastic addition to your vintage pool area. Look for signs with catchy phrases, classic typography, or playful illustrations that evoke a sense of nostalgia. These signs can be placed on the walls, near the pool deck, or even hung from nearby trees. Using pool-themed retro signs adds personality and a touch of vintage flair to your pool area.
This image is property of i.pinimg.com.
Retro Pool Landscaping
Choosing vintage-inspired plants and flowers
Incorporating vintage-inspired plants and flowers into your landscaping can help complete the vintage look of your pool area. Research plants and flowers that were popular during your chosen era and choose those that thrive in your local climate. For a 1950s theme, consider planting vibrant hydrangeas or classic roses. If you’re going for a lush, tropical 1970s vibe, opt for palm trees or blooming hibiscus. Vintage-inspired plants and flowers bring a natural and refreshing touch to your pool area.
Creating a mix of colors and textures
To create a visually captivating vintage pool area, aim to create a mix of colors and textures in your landscaping. Mix bold and vibrant colors with softer hues to create visual interest and a sense of balance. Incorporate different textures through plants with varying leaf shapes and sizes. By carefully selecting and arranging a diverse range of plants and flowers, you’ll create a lush and inviting backdrop for your vintage pool area.
Adding a vintage garden fountain
A vintage garden fountain can be a charming focal point in your pool area’s landscaping. Look for a fountain design that complements your chosen era, such as a classic tiered fountain for a traditional vintage look or an abstract sculpture fountain for a more modern take. The soothing sound of running water and the elegance of a vintage garden fountain will add a touch of luxury and serenity to your pool area.
Designing a Poolside Bar
Choosing vintage bar stools and tables
A poolside bar is a fantastic addition for both relaxation and entertainment. To create a vintage-inspired poolside bar, choose bar stools and tables that reflect the era you’ve selected. Look for vintage bar stools made of chrome or wrought iron, with cushioned seats upholstered in retro-inspired fabrics. Pair them with a vintage-style bar table, complete with ornate details or a sleek, minimalist design. Designing a poolside bar with vintage furniture creates a chic and nostalgic atmosphere.
Adding retro-inspired bar accessories
To fully embrace the vintage theme in your poolside bar, add retro-inspired bar accessories. Look for vintage-inspired barware, including cocktail shakers, glassware, and decorative ice buckets. Incorporate bar accessories with decorative motifs from your chosen era, such as geometric patterns or art deco designs. These details will not only enhance the vintage atmosphere but also elevate your poolside bar experience.
Incorporating a vintage drink menu
To complete the vintage poolside bar experience, create a drink menu inspired by your chosen era. Research classic cocktails from that time and curate a selection of drinks that reflect the spirit of the era. Display the drink menu on a vintage-inspired chalkboard or on a decorative sign near the bar area. Offering a vintage drink menu adds an interactive and immersive element to your poolside bar and allows guests to indulge in the nostalgia of the era.
This image is property of i.pinimg.com.
Creating a Vintage Entertainment Area
Adding a retro-style jukebox or record player
A retro-style jukebox or record player is a fantastic addition to a vintage entertainment area in your poolside. Look for jukeboxes or record players with a design that matches your chosen era, such as a sleek and colorful jukebox for a 1950s look or a wooden record player for a 1970s vibe. Not only will it create a nostalgic ambiance, but it will also provide hours of entertainment for you and your guests.
Creating a lounge area with vintage furniture
In addition to the poolside bar and entertainment options, creating a lounge area with vintage furniture is a must for a comprehensive vintage pool area. Look for vintage-inspired loungers or daybeds in materials like rattan or wicker. Add plush cushions with retro-inspired patterns or colors to enhance the comfort and vintage aesthetic. Having a dedicated lounge area allows you and your guests to relax and soak up the vintage vibes in style.
Setting up vintage board games
For some retro fun, set up vintage board games in your poolside entertainment area. Look for classic games from the era you’ve chosen, such as Monopoly, Scrabble, or Clue. Display the games on vintage-inspired shelving or tables, creating an inviting and interactive space for everyone to enjoy. Playing vintage board games adds a touch of nostalgia and brings people together for some friendly competition.
Maintaining the Vintage Look
Regular cleaning and care
To ensure your vintage pool area retains its charm and appeal, regular cleaning and care are essential. Maintain a routine cleaning schedule for your pool, deck, furniture, and accessories. Clean the pool regularly, removing any debris or leaves to keep the water crystal clear. Wipe down your vintage furniture, remove any stains or spills promptly, and keep it protected from harsh weather conditions. By taking care of your vintage elements, you can ensure they remain in excellent condition for years to come.
Replacing worn-out or damaged items
Over time, some items in your vintage pool area may become worn out or damaged. It’s important to regularly inspect your pool deck, furniture, accessories, and artwork for signs of wear and tear. If any items are beyond repair or pose a safety hazard, it’s best to replace them. Look for vintage or vintage-inspired replacements that match the overall theme of your pool area. By replacing worn-out or damaged items, you can maintain the integrity of the vintage look you’ve worked so hard to create.
Retouching paint or finishes
To keep your vintage pool area looking its best, periodically check for any paint or finishes that may need touching up. Exposure to the elements can cause fading or chipping, especially for outdoor furniture or structures. Retouching the paint or finishes on your pool deck, furniture, or any other surfaces will help maintain the vibrant and polished vintage look. Make sure to use paint or finishes that are suitable for outdoor use and match the original colors as closely as possible.
Incorporating vintage vibes into your above ground pool area is a delightful way to create a unique and nostalgic space. By carefully selecting a specific era, researching vintage designs, and considering color schemes, you can set the foundation for your vintage pool oasis. Adding retro furniture, pool accessories, pool deck features, lighting, artwork, landscaping, poolside bar, entertainment area, and maintaining the vintage look will all contribute to creating a comprehensive vintage pool area that is sure to impress. So dive into the past, embrace the nostalgia, and enjoy the timeless charm of your very own vintage-inspired above ground pool area!
