Inground Pool Design in Grosse Pointe, MI: 2026 Poolscape Trends Landscaping Companies Are Building Right Now
In 2026, the best inground pool and landscaping companies in Grosse Pointe, MI, are designing poolscapes like outdoor resorts: purposeful layouts, bold materials, smarter features, and landscapes that feel tailored instead of “installed.”
And in a community like Grosse Pointe—where architecture, lake influence, and refined outdoor living matter—poolscape design is becoming as much about style and flow as it is about water. You’re not just adding a pool. You’re creating the most magnetic space on your property—the place people drift toward without thinking, the centerpiece that changes how you host, relax, and spend summer evenings.
A luxury in-ground pool installation today isn’t a standalone project. It’s integrated. The pool, patio, plantings, lighting, and outdoor living space all work together, shaping your backyard into something cohesive and effortless. That’s exactly why landscaping companies with true design-build expertise are leading the charge: they can manage the entire experience and ensure everything—from the stone under your feet to the way the landscape frames the water—feels intentional.
Below, you’ll find the 2026 trends defining high-end poolscapes in Grosse Pointe right now, plus the practical regional factors that influence material choices, planting decisions, and project timing in southeast Michigan.
Related: Planning an Inground Pool in Grosse Pointe, MI? Here’s How to Choose the Right Pool Company
Why 2026 Poolscapes Feel Different (And Better)
The old approach to pool building was often “pool first, everything else later.” You’d get the shell in place, then scramble to figure out the patio, the planting beds, and where to put furniture. The result? A space that looks like separate pieces living next to each other instead of a true outdoor environment.
In 2026, you’re seeing a different mindset take over: poolscapes are being planned from the start as complete outdoor living environments. A pool is treated like the anchor—the defining feature that influences how the rest of your backyard flows and functions. The best poolscape design decisions are made early, long before excavation begins, so sightlines, sun exposure, gathering zones, and materials all align.
This shift is especially relevant in Grosse Pointe, where outdoor spaces often need to complement established architectural styles and maximize seasonal enjoyment. Between humid summers, freeze-thaw cycles, and a climate that rewards smart planning, your landscape design and pool decisions need to be coordinated—not patched together.
The Local Factor: What Grosse Pointe’s Climate Means for Pool Design
Before you get into trends, it helps to understand why certain styles and materials are winning in Southeast Michigan.
Freeze-thaw cycles affect hardscaping and materials
Winter freeze-thaw cycles are the biggest reason high-end pool patios in Michigan rely heavily on premium pavers, carefully engineered bases, and proper drainage.
Patio materials and construction methods that might hold up in warm climates can shift, crack, or settle here if they aren’t installed correctly. That’s one reason paver patios remain a top choice around pools: they’re durable, repairable, and designed to flex slightly rather than crack under seasonal movement.
Humidity + heat increase comfort and slip-resistance needs
Summers can be muggy. Pool decks that stay cooler underfoot, resist slipping, and drain quickly are increasingly prioritized. Finishes like exposed aggregate are gaining traction because they combine texture, traction, and visual depth while being comfortable for poolside movement.
Shorter pool seasons drive demand for “shoulder season” features
Grosse Pointe homeowners are maximizing the months surrounding peak summer—late spring and early fall—by adding elements that make the poolscape useful even when you’re not swimming: fire features, covered seating, lighting, and outdoor kitchens that keep gatherings happening beyond the hottest weeks.
Installation timing is seasonal—and planning matters
Because in-ground pool installation and surrounding hardscaping depend on temperature and soil conditions, most pool projects in Michigan follow a seasonal schedule. Design work can happen year-round, but excavation, concrete work, and hardscape installation typically ramp up in spring and summer, with finishing work often extending into early fall.
Working with our design-build team that can coordinate schedules and sequencing is crucial—especially when you’re pairing pool construction with patios, lighting, and planting plans.
Now…let’s talk about what’s trending.
What Are The Latest Trends In In-Ground Pool Landscaping?
2026 is the year poolscapes stopped being “pretty” and started being experiential. You’re seeing designs that feel immersive, layered, and undeniably intentional. Here are the trends landscaping companies are building right now in Grosse Pointe and the surrounding area.
1. Resort-style features that make the pool feel like a destination
Tanning ledges. Built-in seating. Swim-up bars. These features aren’t gimmicks—they’re how you turn a pool into a lifestyle space. A tanning ledge becomes the place you sip iced coffee in the morning. Built-in seating becomes the social hub during gatherings. And swim-up bars keep guests in the water while still feeling catered to.
In 2026, these additions are being designed as part of the overall landscape design, not added as an afterthought. That means the surrounding deck layout supports them, furniture placement makes sense, and the pool doesn’t feel “busy”—it feels curated.
2. Poolside patios that feel like an extension of the home
The trend isn’t just bigger patios—it’s smarter ones. You’re seeing pool decks designed with multiple zones:
A dining zone near the kitchen or outdoor kitchen
A lounge zone with shade or cabana coverage
A sun zone for chaise lounges and tanning
A fire feature zone for evenings and shoulder season use
The materials are also getting more sophisticated. High-end paver patios remain a dominant choice in Michigan for their durability and repairability, but you’re also seeing more specialty finishes like exposed aggregate being used to create texture and a modern look—especially around pools where slip resistance matters.
3. Cleaner geometry and architectural simplicity
Even if your home style leans traditional, pool shapes are trending more refined and purposeful. Instead of overly complex curves, you’re seeing:
Rectangular or gently softened modern shapes
Strong lines that complement patios and walkways
Symmetry that makes the entire yard feel composed
These shapes pair especially well with elevated hardscaping, clean coping details, and minimalist plant layers that still feel lush.
4. Landscape lighting that turns the poolscape into a nighttime experience
In 2026, lighting isn’t a finishing touch—it’s a core design feature. A well-lit poolscape is safer, more inviting, and far more dramatic after sunset. Landscaping companies are building layered lighting plans that include:
Step lights for transitions and stairs
Soft pathway lighting for movement and flow
Accent lighting for specimen trees and architectural plants
Pool lighting that enhances water color at night
Subtle lighting near seating, bars, and kitchens
In Grosse Pointe, where evenings on the patio are a summer ritual, lighting is becoming one of the most requested upgrades.
5. Lush-but-clean planting design
Here’s the real shift: homeowners want plantings that feel abundant, but not chaotic. The best poolscape design in 2026 strikes a balance:
Layered plant beds for depth
Repetition of plant varieties for rhythm
Fewer “fussy” plants that drop debris into the pool
More evergreen structure so the yard feels finished year-round
This is where expert landscape design shines: you don’t want your poolside landscape to feel like it belongs in a different yard. It should frame the pool with the same level of refinement as the water feature itself.
What’s The Best Landscape To Put Around A Pool?
The best landscape around a pool is the one that feels effortless to live with. It should look elevated, stay tidy, complement your hardscaping, and hold up to Michigan’s seasons.
In 2026, the most successful poolscapes in Grosse Pointe typically include these elements:
Hardscaping that supports both style and climate
Around a pool, your patio is everything. It’s what you walk on barefoot. It’s where your furniture sits. It’s what ties the pool to the rest of your outdoor living space.
In southeast Michigan, premium pavers are a smart choice because they’re engineered for freeze-thaw durability and can be repaired or replaced in sections if needed.
You’ll also see exposed aggregate patios used for modern pool decks because they offer slip resistance, texture, and a sophisticated look that works well with contemporary architecture.
Plantings that frame—not fight—the pool
The best poolside plantings have a few things in common:
They don’t shed constantly into the water
They don’t attract messy fruit, sap, or excessive petals
They hold their shape and structure through the season
They soften hard edges without blocking views
A strong poolscape design uses plants like sculptural evergreens, ornamental grasses, and clean-lined perennials to build a layered border that feels polished, not overgrown. When done right, the landscape makes the pool feel more private, more luxurious, and more complete.
Shade features that make the pool usable all day
A common mistake in high-end poolscapes is assuming the sun is always the goal. In reality, a luxury outdoor living space needs both sun and shade.
In 2026, landscaping companies are incorporating:
Pergolas for partial shade and architectural interest
Cabanas for full shade and privacy
Covered lounge areas near the pool for comfort
Strategic trees or large-scale planters positioned to provide relief without dropping debris directly into the pool
The goal is to keep your poolscape comfortable from noon to evening—and adaptable to changing weather.
Outdoor kitchens and fire features that extend the experience
A pool is fun. A poolscape with an outdoor kitchen and fire feature becomes your favorite place to host.
In Grosse Pointe, these add-ons aren’t just popular—they’re becoming expected in luxury projects. A well-designed outdoor kitchen keeps entertaining easy and keeps the flow outside instead of constantly running indoors. Fire features add warmth, glow, and that “stay out later” energy that makes the poolside feel alive even after the water cools.
Related: How an Inground Pool Transforms Backyard Living in Bloomfield Hills, MI
What Should I Not Plant Around A Pool?
This is where expert planning saves you from constant frustration. The wrong plants around a pool don’t just look messy—they create daily annoyance: clogged skimmers, stained decking, slippery surfaces, and nonstop cleanup.
Here are the categories of plants most landscaping companies avoid placing too close to pool water.
Heavy shedders
Trees and shrubs that drop excessive leaves, needles, petals, or seed pods will increase pool maintenance significantly. They also create more organic debris on the patio, which can become slippery when wet.
Messy fruit or berries
Fruit-bearing trees and shrubs can stain decks, attract insects, and create a constant cleanup cycle. They may look charming in other areas of the property, but poolside is not where you want them.
Sap droppers
Some trees produce sticky sap that can land on pool covers, patio furniture, and coping—creating stains and discomfort. If you’ve ever had sap on a cushion, you know how personal that problem becomes.
Thorny or prickly plants
It sounds obvious, but it’s overlooked more than you’d expect. Pool decks are barefoot zones. Anything sharp or spiky should be kept away from high-traffic poolside areas.
High-maintenance “fussy” plants
Poolside planting beds should be refined, but they shouldn’t require constant babysitting. Plants that demand frequent pruning, frequent deadheading, or are extremely sensitive to water and heat stress are better suited elsewhere in the landscape.
The best poolside landscaping is carefully selected to look crisp with minimal chaos—so your poolscape stays inviting, not exhausting.
Is It Better To Have A Lighter Or Darker Pool Liner?
This is one of the most fun decisions in pool design because it changes the entire mood of the water.
In 2026, liners and interior finishes are being chosen less for tradition and more for aesthetic impact. You’re essentially choosing the “color palette” of your pool.
Here’s how to think about it:
Lighter pool liners: bright, classic, and reflective
A lighter liner typically creates water that looks bright blue and clean. It reflects more light, which can make the pool appear more vibrant during the day.
Why homeowners love lighter finishes:
The water feels cheerful and inviting
The pool looks crisp and timeless
It pairs well with traditional homes and classic patio materials
It often shows a more “vacation” style blue
The tradeoff? Lighter finishes can show dirt or debris more easily, which may influence maintenance routines.
Darker pool liners: dramatic, modern, and high-end
A darker liner creates deeper, richer water tones—often resembling a lake-like look or a more reflective surface. It can feel moody, architectural, and extremely luxurious.
Why homeowners love darker finishes:
It feels modern and dramatic
It pairs beautifully with contemporary hardscaping
It creates a reflective, mirror-like surface at night
It makes the pool feel like an intentional design feature, not just a recreational feature
The tradeoff? The water tone can vary more based on lighting, and some homeowners prefer the brighter “classic pool” look.
In Grosse Pointe, darker finishes are trending in 2026 because they complement refined outdoor architecture and pair beautifully with upgraded patio materials and sophisticated lighting plans. But lighter finishes remain a strong choice for classic backyard aesthetics.
What Is A Timeless Color For An In-Ground Pool?
If you want a pool that will still feel relevant in 15 years, timeless color matters.
The most timeless pool water look is still achieved through classic, clean blue tones—especially medium blue or soft blue-gray finishes. These colors:
Look natural in sunlight
Pair well with many patio materials
Fit both traditional and modern architecture
Stay visually appealing across trends
In 2026, you’ll also see a rising demand for neutral water tones—soft gray finishes that create a sophisticated, resort-inspired look without feeling trendy. These often feel “quiet luxury,” especially when paired with clean coping, layered plantings, and warm lighting.
If your home has traditional architecture (which many Grosse Pointe properties do), timeless blue tones keep the pool aligned with the style of the property. If your home leans modern or transitional, soft gray-blue finishes often feel like the perfect bridge between elegance and contemporary design.
How Landscaping Companies Are Designing Poolscapes Around Lifestyle (Not Just Looks)
Luxury pool projects in 2026 are being built around how you actually live.
Here’s what that means in practice:
Entertaining zones that feel natural
Instead of one large patio, the best outdoor living space designs create smaller zones that feel purposeful. Your guests move naturally from:
Kitchen and dining
Lounge seating and shade
Pool tanning and sun decks
Fire feature conversation areas
This creates the feeling of a resort: variety, flow, and comfort for every mood.
Furniture plans are being designed early
It’s not uncommon in 2026 for landscape designers to plan around the exact furniture footprint. That means your chaise lounges, dining table, and conversation sets fit perfectly without crowding walkways or blocking pool access. The result feels effortless—like it was always meant to be that way.
Poolscapes are being built for day-to-night use
With layered lighting, fire features, and shade structures, the best poolscapes don’t “shut down” after sunset. They transform. The pool water reflects lighting, seating areas glow, and everything feels warmer and more intimate. That’s the difference between a pool you use occasionally and a poolscape you live in all season.
Premium materials are being used to reduce visual clutter
A subtle but powerful 2026 trend: fewer material types, more consistency.
Instead of mixing too many textures and colors, the most high-end poolscapes choose a refined palette:
One main patio surface
One accent or border material
Complementary coping and stonework
Plantings that reinforce the same color story
It looks elevated because it feels composed.
2026 Poolscape “Must-Haves” in Grosse Pointe
If you’re building a poolscape right now, these are the upgrades that are showing up again and again in high-end projects:
1. Paver patios designed for movement and durability
Especially in Michigan, pavers remain a favorite because they hold up to freeze-thaw cycles and allow for easier long-term repairs. The right base and drainage plan matter just as much as the surface material.
2. Exposed aggregate accents for slip resistance
Exposed aggregate isn’t just visually interesting—it’s also a practical surface for poolside use, providing traction and texture.
3. Built-in pool features (ledges, seating, and social zones)
A pool isn’t just for swimming anymore—it’s for lounging, talking, and gathering. The most popular features create those built-in moments.
4. Outdoor kitchens that keep the party outside
A pool day doesn’t feel luxurious if you’re running indoors every 12 minutes. Outdoor kitchens and beverage stations keep hosting effortlessly.
5. Lighting designed as part of the architecture
From plant accents to path lights, lighting turns a daytime pool into a nighttime retreat.
6. Plant selections that are clean, layered, and low-chaos
Your poolside landscape should look polished without making your pool harder to enjoy. That means thoughtful plant choices and strategic placement.
Ready to start designing your in-ground pool and landscape? Call ZLM Outdoor Living today.
Related: What to Expect from Landscaping Companies in Troy, MI: Tips for a Stunning Outdoor Space
