From Outdated to Outstanding: How to Renovate Your Backyard Around an Existing Pool
From Outdated to Outstanding: How to Renovate Your Backyard Around an Existing Pool
Many homeowners with older pools assume that to achieve a truly beautiful, modern outdoor space, they’ll have to start from scratch. But what if you could completely transform your backyard without replacing the pool?
At Ventures Design + Build, we specialize in reimagining outdoor spaces of every size and style — and that includes properties with existing pools. Whether fiberglass, vinyl, or gunite, an older pool can become the centerpiece of an extraordinary backyard renovation. The key lies in thoughtful design and premium craftsmanship that bring new life to what you already have.
Why Renovating Around an Existing Pool Makes Sense
When your pool’s structure still functions, there’s often no reason to replace it. A full backyard renovation around your existing pool can deliver incredible results at a fraction of the cost — while minimizing waste and disruption to your property.
Beyond saving time and money, this approach has big advantages:
Sustainability: Reusing a structurally sound pool shell reduces demolition waste and lowers your project’s environmental footprint.
Cost Efficiency: Direct your investment toward design and materials that make the biggest visual and functional impact — patios, lighting, outdoor kitchens, and landscaping.
Customization: With the pool as your foundation, your outdoor space can be tailored to your home’s architecture and your family’s lifestyle.
Modern Functionality: Add amenities like pergolas, outdoor kitchens, fire features, or covered lounges that make your backyard the perfect entertainment space.
Manhattan: A Modern Revival in Canton, MI
Our Manhattan build began with an existing fiberglass pool surrounded by a small prefab play structure and basic fencing — practical, but uninspired. The homeowners wanted to turn it into a destination for entertaining, relaxing, and spending time outdoors with family and friends.
Rather than replacing the pool, our team completely reimagined everything around it.
We built a custom brushed concrete patio accented with Techo Bloc Mika pavers in Onyx Black, bringing crisp contrast and a clean, modern edge to the design. The sleek combination of textures and tones gave the hardscape a contemporary look that perfectly blended with the pool’s existing coping.
Beside the pool, we added a linear gas-fueled fire pit fabricated in-house, surrounded by a cozy lounge area — the perfect place to unwind after sunset.
On the opposite end of the pool, a stone-wrapped pavilion now anchors the backyard, creating a focal point for relaxation and entertainment. The pavilion features a tongue-and-groove ceiling, overhead heaters, recessed lighting, a ceiling fan, and a gas-fueled fireplace with an all-weather TV mounted above. It’s both elegant and functional — a space designed for shade on summer days and cozy relaxation on crisp fall afternoons.
Between the pool and the home, a U-shaped outdoor kitchen with granite countertops provides bar seating on three sides. The brushed concrete and Mika paver inlays continue through the walkways, seamlessly connecting the home, kitchen, and pool area into one cohesive outdoor living space.
The result? A complete transformation that turned a dated backyard into a modern, high-end retreat without ever touching the pool shell itself.
Design Tips for Remodeling Around an Existing Pool
If your backyard feels tired or outdated, a design-forward renovation can change everything. Here are a few expert tips from our design team:
Unify Old and New: Choose hardscape materials and finishes that update the space while complementing your home and the existing pool.
Upgrade the Layout: Redesign the flow to add seating areas, dining zones, and transitions between spaces.
Add Shade and Shelter: A custom pavilion or pergola can extend the usability of your outdoor space through all seasons.
Prioritize Lighting: Smart, layered lighting adds ambiance, depth, and safety to evening gatherings.
Think Long-Term: Design for durability with high-quality materials that will last.
Ready to Breathe New Life into Your Backyard?
If you have a pool that functions well but your outdoor space feels outdated, a custom renovation could be your next great home investment. The Manhattan project proves that with thoughtful design, you don’t have to start over to make your backyard feel brand new.
At Ventures, we’ll help you reimagine your existing space with modern design, luxury materials, and expert craftsmanship — so you can fall in love with your backyard all over again.