How Much Space Should You Leave Around a Pool When Designing an Enclosure?
By Gian Nicolo, Owner, Screening DunRite
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when planning a pool enclosure has nothing to do with screen type, roof design, or color.
It comes down to space.
Specifically:
Not leaving enough of it.
At first glance, it seems logical to make the enclosure just large enough to cover the pool and a small walking area.
After all, smaller means less material.
Less material means lower cost.
The problem is that most homeowners don’t use their outdoor space the same way five years later as they do on the day construction is completed.
What feels spacious during construction often feels cramped after furniture, grills, loungers, and family gatherings enter the picture.
The reality is that almost nobody complains they built their enclosure too large.
Many people wish they had built it bigger.
Think Beyond the Pool
When homeowners first start planning an enclosure, they usually focus on the pool itself.
The pool becomes the center of every conversation.
The challenge is that people don’t spend all their time inside the pool.
They spend time:
- Sitting beside the pool
- Entertaining guests
- Cooking
- Watching children swim
- Relaxing
- Reading
- Dining outdoors
The deck space often becomes just as important as the pool itself.
The Chair Test
Here’s a simple exercise.
Imagine placing:
- Two lounge chairs
- A small table
- A cooler
next to the pool.
Now imagine people walking around those items.
Suddenly that “extra” deck space disappears quickly.
Many homeowners underestimate how much room outdoor furniture requires.
Future Outdoor Kitchens
Outdoor kitchens have exploded in popularity throughout Florida.
Many homeowners who never planned to build one eventually decide they want:
- A grill
- A sink
- Counter space
- Storage
- A bar area
If the enclosure was designed too tightly around the pool, adding those features later becomes much more difficult.
Planning for future upgrades often saves significant money.
The Most Common Regret
If you ask homeowners what they would change about their enclosure, one answer appears again and again:
“I wish we had made it larger.”
The reason is simple.
Families grow.
Furniture changes.
Outdoor living becomes more important.
The enclosure that seemed enormous during construction often feels much smaller after years of use.
Consider Traffic Flow
One thing homeowners rarely think about is movement.
People need room to:
- Walk around furniture
- Access pool equipment
- Carry food and drinks
- Enter and exit the pool safely
A beautiful enclosure can become frustrating if movement feels restricted.
Good design always considers traffic flow.
The Entertaining Factor
Think about your largest gathering.
Birthday parties.
Holiday celebrations.
Family cookouts.
Now imagine everyone inside the enclosure.
Would there be enough room?
Many homeowners plan around daily use.
The best designs also consider occasional heavy use.
The Importance of Door Placement
Space isn’t just about square footage.
It’s also about layout.
Poor door placement can make an enclosure feel smaller than it actually is.
Good designs consider:
- Access to the house
- Access to the pool
- Furniture placement
- Future upgrades
The goal is making the space feel natural and functional.
Pool Equipment Should Be Considered Too
Pool equipment often becomes an afterthought.
Then homeowners realize they need space for:
- Pumps
- Filters
- Heaters
- Automation systems
Planning for equipment access from the beginning usually creates a cleaner and more functional design.
Why Bigger Often Feels Better
A larger enclosure creates flexibility.
It gives homeowners options.
Space can always be used later.
Creating additional space after construction is usually far more expensive.
That’s why many homeowners view extra square footage as a long-term investment.
The Bottom Line
When planning a pool enclosure, don’t just think about the pool.
Think about how you’ll actually live in the space.
Consider:
- Furniture
- Entertaining
- Outdoor kitchens
- Future upgrades
- Traffic flow
- Equipment access
Most homeowners spend years enjoying their enclosure.
A little extra planning today can dramatically improve that experience tomorrow.
The best pool enclosures aren’t just built around pools.
They’re built around people.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much deck space should I leave around my pool?
It depends on how you use the space, but most homeowners benefit from more deck space than they initially think they’ll need.
Should I plan for an outdoor kitchen now?
Absolutely. Even if you don’t build it immediately, planning ahead can save money later.
Is a larger enclosure worth the additional cost?
Many homeowners feel the increased functionality and flexibility make it worthwhile.
Can an enclosure be expanded later?
Sometimes, but planning properly from the beginning is usually much more cost-effective.
Planning a New Pool Enclosure or Outdoor Living Space?
Whether you’re considering a new pool enclosure, screen room, lanai enclosure, outdoor kitchen area, or future backyard upgrades, Screening DunRite can help you plan a space you’ll enjoy for years to come.
Call or Text 727-645-9575 for a free consultation and estimate.
Need pool-cage-rescreening in Port Richey? Call Screening Dunrite at 727-645-9575 or request a free estimate.