Luxury Pool Surrounds & Hardscaping in Southlake: Creating Resort-Quality Backyard Destinations

The pool surround is often the largest hardscape element in luxury landscapes—and the most used during Texas summers. Exceptional pool hardscaping integrates materials, shade, entertainment amenities, and landscape design into cohesive resort-quality environments that maximize entertainment potential and visual impact.

Pool Deck Material Selection

Travertine Pavers (Premium Choice)

Travertine is the definitive luxury pool deck material for DFW estates.

Advantages:

• Natural slip resistance: Porous surface maintains grip when wet (safer than concrete)
• Thermal properties: Stays 20-30°F cooler than concrete in direct sun
• Aesthetic elegance: Natural variation creates timeless, upscale appearance
• Repairability: Individual paver replacement if damaged
• French pattern layout: Classic multi-size arrangement adding visual interest

Color options:

• Ivory: Light, bright, contemporary
• Noce: Warm brown tones, traditional
• Silver: Gray tones, modern

Natural Stone Alternatives

Flagstone: Irregular shapes create organic, naturalistic aesthetics. Oklahoma buff and Tennessee crab orchard popular in DFW. Requires proper sealing for stain resistance.

Limestone: Formal appearance matching home architecture. Lueders and Cream varieties complement Texas architecture.

Poured Concrete with Decorative Finish

Contemporary seamless surfaces:

• Acid staining for earth tones
• Stamped patterns mimicking stone or tile
• Integral color for consistency
• Sealing for durability and stain resistance

Integrated Pool Features

Outdoor Kitchens

Full cooking facilities adjacent to pool areas:

• Built-in grills (gas or charcoal)
• Refrigeration and ice makers
• Sinks with hot/cold water
• Prep areas and counter space
• Bar seating overlooking pool
• Weather protection (pavilions or overhangs)

Shade Structures

Essential for Texas summer comfort:

• Pergolas: Partial shade with architectural interest
• Pavilions: Full shade with ceiling fans and lighting
• Shade sails: Contemporary fabric shade options
• Cabanas: Poolside changing and relaxation structures

Fire Features

Extending pool area use into evening:

• Fire bowls: Dramatic water/fire combinations
• Linear fire features: Modern aesthetic, seating area focal points
• Fire pits: Traditional gathering spaces
• Outdoor fireplaces: Grand statements and heat sources

Water Features

Enhancing pool environment:

• Infinity edges: Vanishing edge designs for dramatic views
• Waterfalls: Naturalistic cascades over stone
• Scuppers: Sheet water features from walls
• Bubblers: Playful interactive features
• Deck jets: Arcing water streams

Landscape Integration

Softening Hardscape Edges

Planting strategies for pool areas:

• Container plantings for seasonal flexibility
• Foundation plantings softening pool equipment screens
• Privacy plantings along property lines
• Tropical accent plants for resort aesthetic

Privacy Design

Creating secluded environments:

• Strategic hedge placement
• Pergola vine coverage
• Privacy wall integration with design
• Landscape berms with plantings

Construction Quality

Drainage Engineering

Pool surrounds require sophisticated drainage:

• Slot drains along deck edges
• Grade slopes away from pool (1/4 inch per foot minimum)
• French drain integration for perimeter management
• Storm drain connections where appropriate

Edge Details

Precision installation differentiates quality:

• Pool coping integration (bullnose, cantilever, or square edge)
• Expansion joints accommodating movement
• Level tolerances preventing puddling
• Clean transitions to adjacent surfaces

Investment Levels

Pool surround investments:

• Basic travertine deck (800 sq ft): $14,000-$20,000
• Premium deck with shade structure: $25,000-$40,000
• Resort-quality with outdoor kitchen: $50,000-$100,000+
• Infinity edge upgrades: $15,000-$30,000 additional

Conclusion

Luxury pool surrounds transform swimming pools into resort-quality destinations. Sandoval Landscaping designs and builds integrated pool environments for Southlake and DFW estates, combining premium materials, thoughtful amenities, and expert craftsmanship.

Explore luxury landscape design: Luxury Residential Landscape Design Guide