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Plunge Pools: The Backyard Trend Everyone’s Talking About

The Rise of the Plunge Pool in Michigan Backyards

Plunge pool, cocktail pool, oversized spa—whatever name you prefer, one thing’s clear: small-scale pools are making a big splash in residential outdoor living. These compact pools are redefining what it means to have a personal retreat right in your backyard, offering year-round function in a space-smart footprint.

Whether you want to cool off in the summer or warm up in a bubbling spa in the winter, a plunge pool gives you the best of both worlds—without taking up your entire yard. Let’s dive into the charm, versatility, and rising popularity of plunge pools across Southeast Michigan.

What Is a Plunge Pool?

A plunge pool is a small, deep pool designed for lounging, cooling off, or hydrotherapy. Typically smaller than a traditional pool—often under 15 feet in length—it’s perfect for limited yard space or homeowners looking for lower maintenance without giving up luxury.

Some homeowners refer to them as cocktail pools, spools (spa + pool), or oversized spa, depending on how they’re used and heated. But no matter the label, the core benefit remains the same: maximum enjoyment with minimal space.

Why Are Plunge Pools So Popular Right Now?

1. Big Style in a Small Space

In cities and neighborhoods throughout Metro Detroit, Ann Arbor, Birmingham, Plymouth and Royal Oak, large lots aren’t always the norm. Plunge pools are the perfect solution for creating a spa-like atmosphere even in modestly sized backyards.

2. Versatile All-Season Use

With heating capabilities, plunge pools can transform into a hot tub in winter and a cool-off pool in summer. Many of our clients in Southeast Michigan are choosing to incorporate built-in heaters, spa jets, and LED lighting so they can enjoy their plunge pool all year long.

3. Lower Maintenance, Same Luxury

Smaller pools mean less water, less energy, and less upkeep. But that doesn’t mean less luxury. Our designs often feature high-end finishes like natural stone coping, glass tile, sheer descent water features, custom lighting, even infinity edges and smart pool controls—scaled to fit.

4. Perfect Pairing with Outdoor Living

Plunge pools work beautifully in tandem with patios, fire features, pavilions, and outdoor kitchens. Their smaller footprint leaves room to build out the full backyard experience.

Designing a Plunge Pool with Ventures

At Ventures, we design and build custom plunge pools tailored to fit your space and lifestyle. Here are some features we often integrate into plunge pool projects:

  • Integrated spa jets for a hot tub feel

  • Heaters for four-season use

  • Water features like scuppers or sheer descents

  • Custom benches or ledges for lounging

  • Automation systems for heating and lighting

  • Surrounding patios with natural stone, porcelain tile, or modern pavers

From urban courtyards to lakeside decks, we’ve seen firsthand how much joy a well-designed plunge pool can bring.

Plymouth home witt a custom gunite cocktail size pool and spa under construction

Custom Designed, Built to Last

Just like our full-size gunite pools, every plunge or cocktail pool we create is custom designed to suit the client’s home, lifestyle, and aesthetic. These compact pools may be smaller in size, but they go through the same rigorous design and build process as our large-scale projects.

It starts with thoughtful planning and excavation. A rebar framework is then formed to shape the pool’s structure. High-pressure concrete is shot into the frame, creating a durable shell that’s built to last. Once the shell cures, it's finished with your choice of pool plaster, pebble, and tile.

This process allows for total customization—whether you want built-in bench seating, tanning ledges, a spa function, or unique water features. The result? A cocktail or plunge pool that doesn’t just fit your space—it elevates it. Compact in footprint, stunning in impact.

Is a Plunge Pool Right for You?

If you’ve been dreaming about adding water to your landscape but don’t want a full-size swimming pool, a plunge pool might be the perfect solution.

  • Want to relax outdoors year-round?

  • Looking for a compact pool that fits your yard and lifestyle?

  • Interested in lower maintenance without sacrificing function or style?

Ventures designs and builds custom pools and outdoor living spaces across Metro Detroit, including Northville, Novi, Rochester Hills, Plymouth, and Ann Arbor. Whether you’re planning a full backyard transformation or looking to enhance your space with a modern plunge pool, our team is here to help.

Juna DurrantComment