Ideas for Outdoor Living

Design your dream patio or porch, check out your favorite pools, or steal an idea for dress up your outdoor space.

8 Cool Pools

Oceanside pools aren’t just for posh resorts. Find a style you’d love coming home to―whether it’s a luxurious infinity version or a petite lap pool that opens right up to your family room―and take the plunge.|Writer: Allen B. Bunting

Two stone pool houses with arched white roofs flank each side of this Connecticut pool built close to the ocean.

Photographer: Alec Hemer

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New England Luxury

Why We Love It: This Connecticut pool sits so close to the sea’s edge that you can cast a rod from one of the lounge chairs. It sports two poolside structures with ornamental roofs reminiscent of graceful, white sails.

Before You Dive In: Oceanside pools can get pretty windy, so construct a low wall that will block breezes without blocking the view. A pool house (or two) will keep towels, sunscreen, and other essentials on hand, while concealing pumps, heaters, and other equipment.