14. Sunken Lounge Pit Adjacent to Pool Deck
Introduction
Create dynamic multi-level depth in your backyard by building a sunken conversational lounge pit directly adjacent to an above-ground pool deck, featuring a central fire table.
What This Idea Means
This design celebrates architectural drama and intimate conversation spaces. It creates distinct outdoor “rooms” while keeping guests at eye-level with swimmers in the pool.
How to Make It
- Excavation: Excavate a square or circular seating pit 2 to 3 feet into the earth right next to the pool deck framing.
- Retaining Wall: Build a sturdy cinder block or poured concrete retaining wall around the pit perimeter, waterproofing the exterior.
- Built-in Seating: Construct built-in wooden benches around the inside perimeter of the pit, adding outdoor waterproof cushions.
- Fire Table Centerpiece: Install a smokeless propane fire table in the center of the lounge pit for cozy evening gatherings.
Tips and Variations
- Tip: Install a French drain system at the bottom of the sunken lounge pit to ensure rainwater drains away rapidly.
- Variation: Line the interior walls of the sunken pit with vertical cedar slats matching your pool decking.
Needs to Make That Thing
- Excavation equipment and concrete materials
- Retaining wall blocks or cinder blocks
- Custom outdoor bench cushions and weather covers
- Propane fire table centerpiece
