Your backyard has the potential to be more than just a patch of grass or an overlooked deck. It can become a place where your family connects, where you relax after a long day, and where you create memories that last a lifetime.
That’s exactly what Indiana residents Bobby and Brandie envisioned for their property. With a view of the nearby lake and hillside, their backyard had promise. But despite its scenic potential, it wasn’t a space they used.
“We were maybe on it five times in three years,” Brandie shares.
Everything changed when the couple decided to install an H2X Trainer swim spa by Master Spas. While their initial goal was to create a space for Bobby to swim, the swim spa sparked a full backyard transformation. With an updated deck, cozy seating, and thoughtful design, their backyard is now a space for exercise, relaxation, and family time.
From underutilized to unforgettable
Bobby and Brandie aren’t alone in their backyard transformation journey. Many homeowners across the country are rethinking how they use their outdoor spaces, especially in the wake of the pandemic. While the pandemic prompted a surge in patio refreshes and backyard upgrades, a new report by the International Casual Furnishings Association (ICFA) reveals that many people still aren’t making the most of their outdoor areas.
According to the 2024 Outdoor Trend Report, only 18% of consumers feel they’re spending as much time in their outdoor living spaces as they’d like. However, 94% believe they would relax, eat, socialize, and entertain more often if their decks, patios, or porches were updated.
For Bobby and Brandie, their decision to invest in a swim spa was the key to overcoming a backyard design challenge. Their property features a slope, which might deter some homeowners from creating a functional outdoor area. However, the swim spa served as the centerpiece of their redesigned space, transforming the hillside into a usable and inviting retreat.
Now, the once-overlooked area has become the family’s go-to spot.
“We’re out here all the time,” the couple says, adding that the kids use the swim spa daily for both play and relaxation.
Designing a backyard oasis with a swim spa
A swim spa is more than just a place to swim; it can transform your outdoor space into a backyard oasis that’s functional, relaxing, and visually stunning. From choosing the right design elements to planning your installation, there’s a lot to consider to ensure your swim spa becomes the centerpiece of a welcoming retreat.
Plan ahead for a seamless swim spa installation
Installing a swim spa requires careful planning, and one of the most important decisions is whether to install it above ground or in a vault. Bobby and Brandie opted for an in-ground installation, creating a sleek and integrated look that fits seamlessly into their backyard design.
To achieve this, they worked with professionals to create a concrete vault — a secure and stable base for their swim spa. A vault is an excellent option if you have a sloped yard or you’re looking for a streamlined design. A vault also makes it easier to step in and out of the swim spa, improving accessibility and safety for users of all ages.
If you’re planning a vault installation, there are several factors to consider to make sure the process goes smoothly and the final result meets your expectations:
Excavation and structural support: Prepare for digging to create the vault. A thoughtful designer will ensure proper reinforcement to support the swim spa’s weight and water pressure. Master Spas recommends a 6-inch reinforced concrete pad.
Drainage: A well-planned drainage system is critical to prevent rainwater and snowmelt from pooling around the swim spa and causing damage over time.
Access for maintenance: The vault design should include adequate space and access points for servicing your swim spa. Master Spas recommends that there be at least 3 feet on all sides of the spa. In addition, a removable panel or nearby opening can make routine maintenance easier and prevent future headaches.
Working with experienced installers and designers can help you navigate these steps with confidence, ensuring a seamless process from start to finish. By planning ahead, you can create a backyard setup that not only looks stunning but also functions efficiently for years to come.
Make the most of your view
Your backyard’s natural surroundings can play a big role in the overall design. Whether you have a stunning view of a pond, rolling hills, or a garden, positioning your swim spa to take advantage of it will elevate your space.
For Bobby and Brandie, the view was a key consideration. They placed their swim spa on the hillside overlooking the water, creating a peaceful escape that feels like a luxurious retreat.
When planning your swim spa placement, think about how it integrates with the landscape. Do you want it to overlook a scenic area or be tucked into a more private corner of your yard? Consider adding features like tall planters, railings, or landscaping to frame the view and enhance the overall design.
Seating that invites relaxation
No backyard design is complete without comfortable seating options. Thoughtfully placed seating not only elevates the look of your space but also creates a functional area for relaxing and socializing.
For Bobby and Brandie, adding seating around their swim spa was essential to their backyard’s transformation. They incorporated a mix of options, including stylish rattan chairs, cozy egg chairs, and a practical bench near the swim spa. This variety ensures everyone has a comfortable spot to unwind. The bench, in particular, serves multiple purposes — offering a place to rest, dry off, or slip into a robe after using the spa.
When designing your own space, consider how your seating will be used and what upgrades could make your outdoor area more inviting. The ICFA report shows that furniture upgrades are a top priority for about half of homeowners, with lounge chairs or chaises (35%) and outdoor sofas or sectionals (19%) among the most desired items. Additionally, benches and accent pieces, favored by 38%, can add both functionality and charm to your design.
Weather-resistant materials and cushions designed for outdoor use are key to maintaining a fresh and welcoming look year-round. Thoughtful seating arrangements not only enhance your backyard’s usability but also help create an oasis where family and friends will want to gather.
Add planters for seasonal color
One of the simplest ways to elevate your backyard design is by incorporating planters for seasonal color. Bobby and Brandie took full advantage of this idea, adding tall planters around their swim spa and deck area. These planters bring vibrant pops of color to the space, creating a dynamic, inviting atmosphere that changes with the seasons.
You can use planters to introduce seasonal blooms in vibrant colors. Consider rotating flowers and plants based on the time of year, from bright summer blooms to festive fall foliage or even evergreen arrangements in winter.
Tall planters, like those Bobby and Brandie chose, also add height and dimension to the backyard, complementing the swim spa and other design elements. When selecting planters, opt for materials that can withstand the elements, such as weather-resistant resin, ceramic, or treated wood.
Why choose a swim spa
If you want to maximize the potential of your outdoor living space, a swim spa can help you accomplish your backyard goals. Combining versatility, functionality, and style, the pool-spa is a space for exercising, relaxing, or socializing.
Versatility
A swim spa is more than just a place to swim. With its adjustable current, it’s ideal for everything from beginner-level swimming to advanced training. But a swim spa is also perfect for soaking, unwinding after a long day, or hosting friends and family.
Year-round use
Unlike traditional pools, which are often limited to warmer months, a swim spa can be enjoyed year-round. Its built-in heating system and energy-efficient insulation keep the water comfortable, even in cold weather. Snowy winter evening? No problem. Enjoy a warm-water workout or soak in the hot tub seats.
Space-saving
Backyard space is valuable, and a swim spa makes the most of it. Smaller than a pool but packed with functionality, swim spas are perfect for yards of all sizes. You can choose an above-ground or in-ground installation, and customize the surrounding area with decking, landscaping, or seating to suit your style.
Health benefits
A swim spa offers much more than recreation. Swimming against the current provides an excellent full-body workout, while the spa’s hydrotherapy jets help soothe sore muscles and promote relaxation. It’s a great way to boost your physical and mental health without leaving home.
Transform your backyard into an oasis
For Bobby and Brandie, their swim spa has become the centerpiece of their backyard and an essential part of their lifestyle.
Whether you’re looking for a way to stay active, relax after a long day, or bring your family together, a swim spa offers endless possibilities. Explore how an H2X Challenger 19D swim spa can transform your backyard and become the highlight of your home.
Are you ready to create a personal sanctuary in your backyard? Relax, unwind, and reinvent family time with a Master Spas swim spa. Click here to discover the secrets to creating a backyard oasis. Or, contact your local Master Spas retailer to learn more about spa ownership. How much does a swim spa cost? Request a quote here.