Planning
Poolscape Budgeting
For projects that include a pool, most clients invest between 15% and 30% of their house value. Poolscape budgets typically start around $80,000 to $145,000 for a basic setup that includes a pool, decking, and utilities.
For clients wanting additional features and patio space, budgets can range from $150,000 to over $350,000.
Breaking Down the Many Costs of a Pool Project
Pool projects require a large investment and most are surprised to learn that a basic setup typically costs in the $80,000-$145,000 range. Scroll through this guide to help make sense of these costs.
Typical Range: $40,000 - $70,000
Pool Structure
At Outdoor Dreams, we offer both fiberglass and gunite pools, typically ranging in size from about 400 to 800 square feet. All of our pools come standard with a row of frost-proof tile, an underwater light, two drains, and a salt-water filtration system. All gunite pools come with a standard, white plaster finish.
Coping is the material above the tile line that separates the pool from the pool decking.
To meet code, your pool will need to be enclosed by a qualifying fence or have an automatic cover.
Depending on your equipment, the pool will need electrical and possibly gas.
Whether you use a hose or call a tanker truck, filling your pool comes with a cost.
Pool decking assumes a basic 3-4 foot band of stone or concrete pavers around the perimeter of the pool.
Large projects require extensive site work, drainage, and soil removal. Pool projects typically involve the removal of over 100 yards of dirt; It's important to have a plan.
Finish Upgrades
Gunite pools come with a standard white plaster finish. For homeowners that want to alter the color of the water and finish of the surface, there are various upgrades to consider. Finish upgrades can typically cost in the range of $5,000 - $10,000.
Equipment Upgrades
Whether you're looking to heat your pool, include automation or add fountains/bubblers, there are numerous popular upgrade options to consider. Equipment upgrades can range between $5,000 - $15,000, including the utilities that are required for many features.
Typical Budget Range: $25,000 - $40,000
Hot Tub/Swim Spa
These luxury structures require their own equipment, finishes and utility connections. Additionally, when raised (like the one in the featured picture), hot tub structures require a decorative finish, often stone veneer and coping, around the perimeter.
Additional Poolscape Budgets
Scroll through these sample budgets to get a better understanding of the investment required for larger poolscape projects.
Pool Structure
Natural Stone Coping
Fence (or Auto Cover)
Pool Decking
Expanded Patio for Lounge & Dining
Pergola
Landscaping
Irrigation
Low-Voltage Lighting
Utilities: Gas and Electrical for the pool & pergola
Site Work, Grading & Drainage
Sod Finish
Pool Structure
Automatic Cover
Hot Tub - Swim Spa
Natural Stone Coping
Pool Decking & Expansive Patio
Retaining Walls
Landscaping
Irrigation
Low-Voltage Lighting
Utilities: Gas and Electrical
Site Work, Grading & Drainage
Sod Finish
Optional Equipment and Finish Upgrades
Pool Structure
Natural Stone Coping
Automatic Cover
Optional Equipment & Finish Upgrades
Water Feature
Pool Decking & Lounge
Additional 2-Room Patio
Outdoor Fireplace
Outdoor Kitchen
Grill, Appliances & Cabinetry
Pergola
Utilities: Gas and Electrical for the Pool, Kitchen and Pergola
Sitting Walls
TV and Audio Package
Landscaping
Irrigation
Low Voltage Lighting
Grading & Drainage
Sod Finish
Pool Structure
Automatic Cover
Natural Stone Coping
Hot Tub - Swim Spa
Pool Utilities: Gas & Electrical
Optional Pool Finish & Equipment Upgrades
Pool Decking & Expansive Patio
Outdoor Fireplace
Outdoor Kitchen
Grill, Appliances and Cabinetry
Kitchen Utilities: Gas, Plumbing & Electrical
Pergola
Expansive Landscaping
Irrigation
Low-Voltage Lighting
Site Work, Grading & Drainage
Sod Finish
Cascading Curves - A Case Study
Cascading Curves - A Case Study
This homeowner approached Outdoor Dreams while relocating from Hawaii into their newly built custom home. With a fresh start in Virginia, they envisioned a poolscape that would feel both welcoming and grounded—a space that blended seamlessly with the architecture of their home while also reflecting the rustic, natural warmth of the Midwest.
Sculpting Fire - Custom Curved Fire Features
Sculpting Fire - Custom Curved Fire Features
When it comes to building a luxury poolscape, a swimming pool is just the beginning. The real magic happens in the details—the elements that transform a backyard into an unforgettable retreat. For the Cascading Curves Project, that magic came in the form of two fully customized, curve-driven fire features that now anchor the space with drama, warmth, and unmistakable personality.