Plunge pools and spas are a stylish solution for small gardens.
What’s the difference between a plunge pool and a spa? Named after the watery basins at the bottom of waterfalls, plunge pools are generally deeper—and larger—than the average spa but smaller than a typical swimming pool. Which is right for you?
For landscaping ideas, read on to see 10 of our favorite petite pools–hot and cold, above ground and below, built on their own or in tandem with a larger swimming pool.
Northern California
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For more, see Ask the Expert: An Insider’s Guide to Swimming Pool Design from Scott Lewis.
Napa Valley, California
Above: In the Napa Valley, landscape architect Scott Lewis sited a spa pool near a master bedroom and bath. For more of this garden, see Vineyard Haven: A Garden That Belongs to the Land.
Pacific Palisades, California
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For more of this project, see Landscape Architect Visit: A Refined Family Garden in LA’s Pacific Palisades.
Cazadero, California
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For more of this project, see Architect Visit: Olle Lundberg’s Scavenged and Salvaged Cabin.
Maine Woodlands
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See more of this project in Best Hardscape 2015: Elliott + Elliott Architecture.
Carmel Valley, California
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For more of this project, see Landscape Architect Visit: The California Life, Outdoor Living Room Included.
Marin Hills, California
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For more of this project, see Swimming Pool of the Week: The View Through the Oaks in Marin County, California.
Northern California
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For more of this project, see Considered Design Awards 2015: Best Professionally Designed Landscape Finalists.
West Marin, California
Above: In the rolling hills of West Marin in Northern California, architects Turnbull Griffin Haesloop designed a net-zero energy use homestead with a plunge pool and hot tub sited for sun and wind protection. For more of this garden, see Architect Visit: Getaway Ranch in Northern California.
Tulum, Mexico

For more, see Hotel Esencia: Secluded Splendor on the Maya Riviera.
For more garden inspiration, see:
- The New Outdoor Living Room: 10 Favorite Built-in Sofas for Decks and Patios.
- Lawn Begone: 7 New Ideas for Front Yard Landscaping.
- And don’t forget to browse all of our Swimming Pool of the Week posts.
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