We all want the perfect backyard, somewhere to escape, relax and unwind after a long day. To achieve that perfect at-home retreat many people are incorporating relaxing hot tubs into their landscape designs. The perfect spa, in the perfect setting, can create an oasis that meets your dreams, needs, and budget.
The key to creating this perfect backyard escape is to optimize your space. You will want to install your hot tub for maximum accessibility, the best views and for optimal usability. When evaluating the various locations for a deck consider how the structure, design, and accessibility will enhance the aesthetics and utility of your hot tub, home and yard.
We reached out to deck, landscape and hot tub experts around the world for their absolute best tips and tricks. Below are 63 hot tub design ideas and insights from professional designers and installers to help you create the perfect outdoor space for your hot tub. Whether you’re interested in a modern look, eco-friendly, a place for family and friends, a do-it-yourself project, or simply a beautiful place to retreat to for some relaxation, there’s something here for everyone.
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Patio, Recessed, & Raised Decks
1. Raised platform hot tub design with horizontal stainless steel cable railing.
When building the new deck, a platform was made to hold the hot tub at a height conducive to regular use. When dining or lounging, the inviting hot tub is just steps away: ready and waiting. Integrate a horizontal stainless steel cable railing to give the design a modern look and feel. – Tip provided by Bill Renter, Long Island Hot Tub, New York
2. Small space with a deck.
Photo via Love Chic Living
For those who have a small space to work with, a simple deck around the hot tub is great for creating a more spacious look. Include plants, outdoor furniture, and other decor to make the space uniquely you…one you’ll love spending time in after a long day.
3. Think ahead before building a deck with recessed hot tub.
If you wish to “recess” the spa in the deck, you may want to consider how deep. Fully recessed hot tubs may actually make entering the spa a challenge. Homeowners may only want it recessed half way to allow easy access. Also make sure to allow clearance to the access panel for the spa to be serviced. – Mel Higgins, Aquarius Pools and Spas, Maine
4. Ensure your structure can support a hot tub.
Photo by Better Homes and Gardens
For saving sight lines around small spaces, sinking the hot tub in the deck area is an excellent idea. When recessing your hot tub into a deck, leave about 16-18” rise above the deck to allow for the cover to fit over the hot tub when not in use. Keeping your hot tub covered when not in use will save energy, prolong the life on the spa and avoid unnecessary hot tub maintenance.
Key insights:
- Sunken decks, if not structured correctly, can create additional stress you don’t want. When installing a hot tub in your deck, ensure the structure is stable to support the weight of a completely filled hot tub safely without shifting.
5. Adopt a short deck design to enlarge your backyard.
Avoid harsh lines by designing a short deck which flows through a circular design. This short deck, composite design is stunning for creating a relaxing space for hosting dinner parties, enjoying time with family, or creating a space for relaxation.
6. Build a bench surrounding your hot tub.
Photo via Archadeck of Central GA
If the sunken hot tub is too much work (or too high a cost), another option is to build a bench around the spa for a nice clean, modern look. For most people, composite materials are more functional to use when constructing an area outdoors or around a hot tub. If you decide to use wood instead, make sure the wood is properly sealed (i.e. tar paper). Your local home improvement store or contractor can assist you in what options fit best for your area’s climate.
7. Utilize a stunning elevated two step design for easy access.
Photo via Charles Hugo Landscape Design
Accent your spa with an elevated two step design for a more modern feel around your hot tub. The steps around the hot tub are not only excellent to assist you to enter or exit the hot tub, but can be a great spot to place a towel or drink.
Key insights:
- Choose your location carefully, considering your access needs, landscape tastes, and lifestyle. One excellent option is to position the spa in a corner on your patio near your home for easy access all year long.
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8. Maximize your views but don’t sacrifice function.
Photo via Arizona Hot Tub Company
Many folks love the idea of sinking a hot tub into a deck. This allows them to see a 360 degree view and really completes the outdoor living area. This style makes the hot tub appear like it was custom designed for you and your life, resulting in an amazing finished look. However, it’s important to not sacrifice function over form. Having an adequate access area to the equipment area is imperative to long-term happy hot tubbers! – Tip provided by Nick Kasten, Arizona Hot Tub Company, Arizona
9. Construct a multi-layered platform deck with gazebo.
Photo via Allscape
Gazebos are an attractive addition to include in your deck design. This multi-layered short deck with gazebo is perfect for any space. Use various levels to enhance your deck’s appeal and to create specific areas for entertaining guests.
Key insights:
- When building a platform deck, like the one above, measure the height and depth of the hot tub, then cut the pieces 2 by 4 material to construct the frame. Include the same number of pieces for the vertical pieces of the frame.
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10. Raised short deck with accented seating.
Photo via Fine Decks
Another stunning, modern design is this raised short deck design with accented bench seating. Incorporate greenery, outdoor furniture, and even a fire pit, to design a space to entertain guests. In addition, the built-in seating can be used as low railing to prevent against accidentally falling off the deck edges while conversing.
Wood, Composite, & Other Deck Materials
“Think outside the standard wood platform with smart design ideas for a range of settings and budgets.” – This Old House
11. Skip the cost of stone and use travertine instead.
Photo via Long Island Hot Tub
Incorporate travertine and black stone veneer panels to create a more elegant hot tub look. In this hot tub deck design, Long Island Hot Tub sunk the spa halfway into the ground then built a stone wall around the spa. – Tip provided by Bill Renter, Long Island Hot Tub, New York
12. Explore exotic hardwood materials.
Photo via Nick Leith-Smith
Durable hardwoods like Iroko, Acacia and Ipe are ideal for exterior use and will stand the test of time. – Tip provided by Nick Leith-Smith, Architecture and Design, London
13. Capped composite decking.
Photo via Fine Decks
These days the majority of decking around hot tubs is composite decking. All capped composite decking is particularly popular. – Tip provided by Clemens Jellema, Fine Decks, Maryland
Key insights:
- When deciding on a composite wood, take into consideration the pros and cons of uncapped and capped composite. Uncapped composite is more vulnerable to staining, fading, mold, and mildew, whereas capped composite has a surface cover (similar to that on a golf ball) which contains UV inhibitors, anti-oxidants, and other products to enhance the longevity of the wood.
14. Wood gives your outdoor space warmth.
Photo by Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture via Houzz
Use wood to “…give the space warmth and rhythm while also distracting the eye from the different window heights. Interest is created by building out off of the existing walls, which have given depth to the space through the use of light-box windows.” – Tip by Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture, California
15. Blend wood and brick together in your deck design.
Photo via State-Homes
Mix the more industrial look of stone and the warmth of nature to create a stunning outdoor patio area. Accent the space with a trellis for plants and other greenery to add to the beauty of the space. Or, position your hot tub between the wood trellis for additional privacy.
16. Include a flowing fountain feature to amplify peace and relaxation.
Photo via Madison Planting & Design Group
Water features are a wonderful focal point to include in your outdoor design. Plus, by incorporating the four elements (earth, fire, wind, and water) into your space, you’re involving all your senses and adding value to your property.
Key insights:
- Add a foot path in your backyard design (earth), install a fire pit of tiki lamps (fire), hang wind chimes (wind), and include a fountain, pool, or hot tub (water) to enhance your outdoor space and reconnect with your senses.
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17. Go modern with wood, multi-level decking.
Photo via Nick Leith-Smith
By installing a multi-purpose, multi-level decking area, everything from seating, storage, outdoor showers, bbqs, bars and planting areas can be incorporated into a seamless design. – Tip provided by Nick Leith-Smith, Architecture and Design, London
18. Set your hot tub within a natural setting.
Photo via Long Island Hot Tub
Water features and backyard ponds are an excellent focal point for any time of year. With the right environment your hot tub can become its own sort of pond or feature. Add some natural boulders and planters around the hot tub to raise the spa up and make the hot tub experience an art form. – Tip provided by Bill Renter, Long Island Hot Tub, New York
Key insights:
- This jagged rock faced design is perfect for creating a more natural feel around your hot tub. Mix in some plants and other succulents to make the area pop with color and appeal.
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19. Incorporate faux stone in your design.
Photo via Genstone Products
Faux stone gives you the real stone look without the high price. Use faux stone in your hot tub deck design to create a unique look to your backyard patio and hot tub.
Function & Style
“There must be quite a few things that a hot bath won’t cure, but I don’t know many of them.” – Sylvia Plath
20. Throw in a bar with accented seating around your hot tub.
Photo via DesignscapesNY
Create a wet bar around your hot tub with a striking brick pillared stone bar. Add some candles to set the mood for either a romantic night with your spouse or a fun night of entertaining guests. Included accented stools to enhance the space and make it feel more like you.
21. Create a zen space or backyard oasis with plants.
Photo via Landscaping Network
Construct a zen garden by incorporating more of mother nature into your hot tub deck design. Design your space for a more organic, feng shui feel that will boost inner peace and allow you to meditate after a hectic day.
Key insights:
- Enhance your zen by finding inspiration in Japanese gardening traditions. A rock garden or “dry landscape garden” is a fun way to reconnect with nature.
22. Interject an outdoor kitchen in your deck design.
Photo via Lowes
Love to cook? Create the perfect kitchen area in your deck design where you can entertain both family and friends. Not only is this a perfect addition to your outdoor living space, adjacent from your hot tub, but it keeps you engaged in the conversation without having to run back into the house for something.
23. Build your deck around the trees in your yard.
Photo by Dave Simmerman Photography via Deck Magazine
Embrace the natural beauty of your space by constructing your deck around the trees in your backyard. This is great for incorporating the natural look and appeal of mother nature in a more modern design. Include an artistic inlay to give the space the feel of running water through a forest.
Key insights:
- When positioning your hot tub in your outdoor landscape, keep in mind which areas get prevailing winds, a lot of sun, and shade.
24. Take some time to enjoy the view.
Photo via Bullfrog Spas
If you live in an area with a gorgeous view, why not create the perfect backyard space with a scenic overlook? Take in the lights of the city, the mountains, and natural vistas by creating an open design for your hot tub that matches the visual style of your home and complements your garden landscape. Include native plants, shrubs, and trees as accents around your yard and hot tub. These are also an excellent way to provide some privacy around your spa.
Key insights:
- Even in an open space (like the spa above), make sure the hot tub has some privacy.
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25. Give your guests a getaway of their own in a sunken stone lounge.
Photo via Garden Shop of Homewood
Sunken lounges are all the rage right now, so why not include them in your outdoor space? This stone patio with an inground spa is perfect for leisure and relaxation. Include greenery for some privacy, as well as lamps and other decor features to make the space pop.
26. Incorporate an outdoor rug into your deck design.
Photo by CoCo Cozy via Worthing Court
A decorative carpet can accent your outdoor design and infuse some of your personality into the space. Choose an indoor/outdoor carpet that complements your style and adds warmth to the space.
Key insights:
- Give your outdoor environment a fresh look by adding a new coat of paint to the wicker and metal furniture. Choose a rug color that complements your home and furnishings. Replace seat cushions or recover the old ones with a new, stylish design.
27. Create a wide open space to entertain.
Photo via Ernest Braun for California Redwood Association
Have some fun with your space by adding a firepit, pergola, and circular seating with colorful throw pillows. In this space above, they’ve created an inviting space that is perfect for stretching out and entertaining. With the circular seating, guests can easily converse with each other in an open space that allows everyone to be part of the discussion.
Key insights:
- Be smart when including a fire pit in your outdoor design by taking the necessary precautions. Check with your city to ensure you meet the requirements to have a fire pit and choose one that is safe to use in your space.
Privacy & Protection
28. Add some privacy to your hot tub deck with a decorative screen.
Photo by Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture via Houzz
Add a screen to your interior garden space not only for added privacy but also as a backdrop to hide any undesirable view. This screen adds a dramatic lighting element to enhance the outdoor mood with the changing sunlight colors. – Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture via Houzz
29. Create a modern hot tub deck design with a rooftop patio and sofa seating.
Photo via Nick Leith-Smith
Privacy and shade are other big considerations that can be tackled with a rooftop patio and hot tub that takes advantage of clever screening. Of course, anyone considering a rooftop hot tub installation should seek professional expertise to ascertain if special structural considerations are required. – Tip provided by Nick Leith-Smith, Architecture and Design, London
30. Select a spa that complements the shape and size of the deck.
Photo via Paul Lafrance Design
“Hot tubs are a popular request from my clients,” says Paul Lafrance, founder of design & build firm Paul Lafrance Design. “A lot of the time, the instinct is to tuck them away off to the side, but this doesn’t make them feel very inviting. With so many varieties available, it’s easy to select a hot tub that complements the shape and size of the deck. When placing a spa into a design, I account for sight lines and privacy.
Privacy makes them feel cozy and relaxing, and the sight line draws you to the hot tub, as well as ensuring you have a nice view of your beautiful yard while you soak. Lastly, sinking the hot tub about halfway into the deck makes it not only more inviting and easier to climb into, but hides the sides of the tub and really harmonizes the hot tub with the entire deck design.”
31. Woven outdoor privacy screen.
Photo via Lowes
Weave cedar slabs of wood to create a lounge area with a stylish privacy screen. Incorporate plants, lanterns, and cozy chairs to make the place more inviting. Have fun with the space by adding colorful pillows and plants. This woven privacy screen is also a fun way to give your hot tub some privacy while you’re soaking.
32. Move your hot tub close to your home.
Photo via Bullfrog Spas
If you have a smaller backyard space, place your hot tub close to your door and create a landscape design around the spa. Find inspiration in a unique patio design, include a sitting area, plants, or add some other artistic pieces to incorporate in the space.
33. Create a mini spa sanctuary.
Photo via Archadeck
This full privacy, multi-step wood deck is ideal for creating a backyard retreat to relax after a long day. Remember to consider the weight of the hot tub, including the water, to ensure the structure of the frame supports the full weight of the spa.
Key insights:
- Make this space yours where you feel comfortable to release the stress of the day. Include comfortable outdoor furniture, plants, and other items to create a space you enjoy.
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Design a Perfect Setting: 4 Ideas for Your Personal Spa at Home
34. Design a privacy fence to go around your hot tub.
Photo via The Wow Decor
Construct a wood slat fence around your hot tub for a modern, sleek design with the added benefit of privacy. Include bamboo and candles to give the area a more zen feel, or add a simple piece of shrubbery to enhance the space.
35. Embrace the Nordic feel with this Scandinavian backyard gazebo.
Photo via Hammacher Schlemmer
Hammacher Schlemmer shared this design on their site, which pulls inspiration from Scandinavia to create a perfect all-weather retreat. Large windows can be easily opened or closed (depending on the weather) to protect you and your hot tub from the elements. Include plants that thrive in a greenhouse environment to decorate your space.
36. Pull inspiration from this Japanese spa gazebo.
Photo via Alliance Woodcraft
Pull inspiration from Japan with this stylish spa gazebo design. A roof and three walls, adorned with windows to let some light in, protects you and your hot tub from the elements. Include a wood bar and stools that complement the space and serve to entertain guests.
37. Set your hot tub off to the side to maximize your space.
Have some fun with your outdoor design by connecting two octagon-spaced decks together. Make one a little higher and incorporate greenery around the space to pull them in more. Include a gazebo to create some additional privacy along with a BBQ, patio furniture, and other items to entertain guests.
38. Integrate the beauty of trellis to create a private backyard oasis.
Photo via Lifestyle-Landscapes
If you want an open space for your hot tub, but don’t want to completely omit privacy, use slightly spaced trellis to create an enchanting area to unwind at the end of the day. Incorporate benches and flower boxes to the space for an earthy tone.
39. Get inspired by fabrics and lattice fencing.
Photo via Digs Digs
Find inspiration in your patio decor design with this impressive lattice fence and fabric curtains. This is perfect for creating a space that allows for privacy, provides shade, and is a fun way to play with the space. When you’re tired of the color, swap out the color and pattern for something fresh and new.
Deck Landscaping, Plans, & Blueprints
40. Large wood entertainment area with seating (blueprints)
Photo via Nick Leith-Smith
Check out the entire hot tub deck design plan from Nick Leith-Smith, Architecture and Design, London
41. Create convenience with proper planning.
Think about how you plan to use the hot tub and any views you may enjoy while in the hot tub. Pick out the perfect hot tub that suits your wants and needs and design your deck to accommodate it. Making the hot tub convenient and easy to use means you will use it more. – Gabe Givan, Sonoma Backyard, California
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42. Build wide or cascading steps to complement your deck design.
Photo via DIY Advice
Wide steps and cascading steps are a popular stair design which can bring a stylish look to your deck design. When constructing cascading steps, or just wide steps, be aware of the heighth of the steps as they may become awkward and turn into a hazard.
Key insights:
- If the drop requires more than 5 steps, a more traditional staircase might be the best option for you to explore.
43. Plan your deck design.
Photo by Ace Hardware
Deck structure design plan. Remember before beginning any project, you need to check with your state and local codes.
44. Use 3D design tools for a better idea on the finished project.
Photo via Landscape Design Advice
Hot tubs come in all shapes and sizes. Because of that, take some time to consider where you want your hot tub, both in terms of aesthetics and function, and how you can integrate the hot tub into your landscape design.
To gain some ideas of other hot tub landscape design ideas, check out this 3D landscape design feature.
45. Accent your kitchen with this short, multi-step hot tub deck design.
Photo via Fine Decks
One approach is to have the hot tub rest on a concrete slab with the decking build halfway (around 18″ high). This way the hot tub is about another 18″ higher which makes it easy to get in and out. – Tip provided by Clemens Jellema, Fine Decks, Maryland
46. Construct a patio with seat walls.
Photo via My Patio Design
Integrate various shapes to create a backyard patio to enrich your landscape design. Combine a fire pit, hot tub, and patio set with umbrella to arrange a space to entertain. Frame the patio with flowers and bushes, fill in the space with wood chips, for a clean look.
47. Build a pergola over your patio.
Photo via DIY Ideas
A pergola is a great addition to any backyard. Build one yourself with these simple DIY tips, or turn it into a gazebo to shade your hot tub. Whatever you decide to do, this outdoor designs adds a stylish feature to your backyard patio.
Key insights:
- When constructing a pergola in your backyard, remember they require a solid foundation and should be able to drain any water, which can damage the structure.
Eco-friendly, Low Maintenance, & Designs on a Budget
“Life is trying things to see if they work.” – Ray Bradbury
48. Give your hot tub a garden.
Install your hot tub in a serene backyard landscape with waterfalls and a “pondless” reservoir. When installing a manmade stream with waterfalls, some of our clients (especially with young children or small pets) prefer the pondless feature where the water seeps into the gravel (where the reservoir is) and acts as a more green maintenance-free source. – Tip provided by Bill Renter, Long Island Hot Tub, New York
49. Embrace the desert look.
Photo by Kikuchi + Kankel Design Group via Style Motivation
For those who live in a desert climate or wants to eliminate grass from their backyard landscape, rocks and native plants are an excellent idea to create a unique, yet stunning, look.
Key Insights:
- Add plants to the landscape which are native to the area. Your local garden center or landscaper can advise you which plants would be the best to choose.
50. Create raised benches and tables from concrete blocks.
Photo by Better Home and Gardens via The Urban Homestead
If you’re working on a budget, use cement blocks to create a striking patio design in your backyard. Throw in some colorful pillows and seat cushions to make this a cozy place to sit. Plus, give your ground cover a fun design with these circular foot steps surrounded around gravel. Can you picture how great your hot tub would look sitting in this setting?
51. Use Airstone to enhance your hot tub design.
Another fun idea to give your hot tub a different look without breaking the bank is using Airstone to add depth. Airstone is a manufactured stone veneer product which is easy to install for both indoor and outdoor projects. Made out of recycled materials, Airstone is an affordable resource to give your patio design a natural, earthy feel.
52. Consider accessibility, in terms of maintenance.
Photo via Keith Fry
Design and planning is the key element when purchasing a hot tub. Design decks around hot tubs to be user friendly for both the owners and service techs. Hot tubs will always need some kind of service which makes access to the motor so important. Two tier decks are the perfect design for hot tubs to give the sunken-in look yet accessible. – Keith Fry, Another Amazing Deck, Pennsylvania
53. Live the tiny house life with accented hot tub.
Photo via Inhabitat
If you’re looking to downsize, this compact design fits a family of 5 comfortably and allows for the enjoyment of relaxing in a hot tub. If you’re interested in learning more about these tiny houses, Inhabitat has a lot of styles to choose from.
Key insight:
- When considering a tiny home, take some time to do your research and know where you plan to place your home. In many cases, zoning can be a challenge since some communities require houses to be 1,000 square feet or more.
54. Embrace the brick look.
Photo via Long Island Hot Tub
Construct a modern, low maintenance deck design with simple bricks. A raised stone platform design with entrance steps creates a spacious outdoor patio. Combine colorful plants, outdoor furniture, and even a rug into the space to make the area pop with your personality.
Further Tips, Ideas, & Inspiration
55. Keep it simple with a short, multi-step deck and umbrella.
Photo via Hometalk
Interject smooth, symmetrical lines in your backyard design with this multi-step short deck, accented with a stone path, pergola, raised bench, and colorful patio umbrella. Large enough to comfortably entertain guests, you can incorporate shrubs, trees, and other vegetation to the area to add shade and privacy.
Key insight:
- As you design your dream outdoor space, keep cost and maintenance in mind. How much time and money do you want to invest in your backyard? If you can hire a gardener to handle the upkeep, great, but if you’re dreading spending hours doing yard work, create an outdoor space that is low maintenance.
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56. Amplify the beauty of your backyard with light.
Photo by Laura Joliet for The NY Times via The Garden Glove
Incorporating light in your outdoor design can brighten dark corners and add emphasis on areas you want to highlight…perhaps your hot tub. This backyard above has included square red brick to create a stunning patio design. Trees and native plants elevate the beauty of the space and provide different depths to include the soft lights to complement the space.
Hot tub lighting can greatly add the ambiance of your backyard space. Choose custom lighting throughout your garden and in the hot tub to take the atmosphere to the next level. You can choose from a wide range of lighting options, so there’s something to suit the style of any outdoor space. Try color-changing lights for a fun vibe, or outdoor floating lights for a sophisticated twist.
57. Integrate your hot tub into your landscape so they fit attractively.
Help your hot tub blend in with its surroundings by adding plants which can soften the harsh corners. Your local garden center or landscaper can assist you with knowing which plants are best. – One Kind Design
58. Integrate dramatic architectural lighting into your design.
By integrating dramatic architectural lighting into a hot tub design scheme you will create a multifunctional entertaining area that can be used as a relaxing spa experience by day and the ultimate party venue by night. – Tip provided by Nick Leith-Smith, Architecture and Design, London
59. Deck lighting inspiration.
Photo via McKay Landscape Lighting
Not only does this add a beautiful lighting design to your deck, but it is also a safety feature that helps keep people from falling down/up your steps. This stunning design uses cascading soft light to enhance the outdoor area.
Key insights:
- Lighting should be there to accompany the space. Keep deck lighting low key so it doesn’t distract from your outdoor design, but enhances the space instead.
60. Keep the size of the hot tub in mind.
Photo by HGTV via One Kind Design
The typical hot tub is 6 feet in diameter and takes up about 30 square feet (a rectangular tub is around 48 square feet) and you’ll want to include additional space to walk and entertain around the hot tub. – One Kind Design
61. Ensure the hot tub is integrated into a cohesive design scheme.
Our top tip for anyone considering purchasing a hot tub is to ensure it is integrated into a cohesive design scheme that creates a multifunctional indoor/outdoor space. – Tip provided by Nick Leith-Smith, Architecture and Design. London
62. Make an impact with a simple set of wood stairs.
Photo via Bob Vila
Simple wood steps are another excellent addition to your hot tub design if you want a modern, yet practical entrance without the huge cost. This patio features a basic open wood deck design with two toned fence.
63. Connect your hot tub with your pool.
Photo via Gib San Pools
What is impressive about this kind of design is that you can create a spillway between the hot tub and pool. If you live in a cooler climate and will be unable to use your pool during the winter months, keeping your hot tub seperate from your pool is probably your best option.
Bonus Backyard Ideas
Hot Tub & Fire Pits
A hot tub enhances any backyard, creating a great opportunity to host guests any time of year. But a hot tub will be further complemented by adding a fire pit to go along with it. A fire pit can be turned on while you and guests enjoy your hot tub, adding an ambient glow to your surroundings. The fire pit can also offer warmth once you’re out of the hot tub and drying off, or it can be used to roast marshmallows and make s’mores on a summer night.
Place your fire pit right next to the hot tub for convenient proximity when you get out of the hot tub. Or install the fire pit on the other side of the yard if you want to create a separate space for lounging and socializing with friends and family.
No matter where you place the fire pit, you can create greater cohesion between the hot tub and fire pit by choosing similar pavers, brick, wood, or other finishes to tie the elements together. One of the most popular backyard hot tub and fire pit ideas is to create a pergola or deck to bring both parts of the yard together.
Add seating around the fire pit by creating a built-in wall, by using stools, or by adding an outdoor dining set nearby. You could also consider adding benches in between the hot tub and the fire pit, so guests can easily go back and forth between the two areas.
Key insights: Consider how you’ll use the fire pit before deciding where to put it. Will you be using it for ambiance, warmth, roasting marshmallows, or all three? Then, tie your hot tub and fire pit together by choosing similar finishes.
Add Ambiance to the Backyard
Some yards just have that it-factor that’s hard to pinpoint. They make you feel at home and like you’ve found a unique escape, all at once. These yards usually have the perfect mix of elements to create an ideal ambiance.
Landscape lights are one of the most important factors in building an ambient yard. Check out our tips below for incorporating landscape lights in your hot tub deck ideas.
How Far Apart Do You Put Landscape Lights?
Landscape lights are a must-have if you want to enhance your hot tub experience. These lights can highlight the best features of your hot tub and increase the beauty of your landscaping. Consider adding landscaping lights near tall trees, bushes, or walking paths in your yard. More popular hot tub patio ideas include adding hanging patio lights to your outdoor space. Patio lights can be hung along a pergola, a gazebo, or on standing poles.
Before you decide where to put your landscaping lights, consider the type of environment you want to create. Are you seeking a romantic atmosphere for you and your significant other? Do you want more lighting for evening dinners with family? Or maybe you want to add lights for backyard security? Choose lighting that reflects the purpose you have in mind. For example, choose warm, dim twinkle lights if you want to create a romantic outdoor space. Select brighter lights if you want them to be more functional for cooking and dining in the yard. Or choose motion-sensor lights in dark areas of the yard if you want to make your yard safer. Place the lights in areas where you’ll be spending most of your time.
The more inviting yards incorporate a variety of landscaping lights. Even if you’re doing hot tub landscaping on a budget, you can easily incorporate a few lighting elements to make the space more inviting. Just like a home, a yard should have layers of lighting to use for different purposes. Consider choosing an array of lights, including walkway lighting, standing lamps, patio lights, and spotlights to illuminate your trees and shrubbery.
Landscape lights allow you to enjoy your hot tub to the fullest. Instead of looking into darkness when you hot tub at night, landscape lights allow you to enjoy your yard landscaping even in the darker hours. The right hot tub lights also allow you to enjoy the beautiful features of your hot tub.
What Are the Best Backyard Lights?
There are many types of lights well suited for outdoor use. Some of the best backyard lighting includes hanging string lights, landscape spotlights, pathway lights, hot tub LED lights, hanging globes, and wall sconces.
Key insights: What are some best practices or key tips for adding lighting to the backyard? How can you use landscape lights to highlight the hot tub both for beauty and functionality? How can landscape lights improve the hot tub experience?
Other Considerations When Building a Hot Tub Deck
Is Decking Strong Enough for a Hot Tub?
When trying to determine if your deck is strong enough to hold a hot tub, it’s important to get an expert opinion. Talk to your hot tub company and get their advice before you decide on deck designs with a hot tub. However, there are some guidelines to help you estimate what your deck can handle. Usually, a deck that is raised a few feet can handle about 100 pounds per square foot. If the spa you’re considering is less than 100 pounds per square foot, your deck will be able to support it.
How Much Weight Can an Elevated Deck Hold?
An elevated deck can usually hold about 50 pounds per square foot. To find out how much weight your hot tub will be, you’ll need to know:
- Weight of the empty hot tub
- Weight of one gallon of water is 8.34 lbs
- Weight of the average person is 175 lbs
- Width of hot tub x Length of hot tub
Now you can add the hot tub’s dry weight, plus the water capacity, plus the number of recommended occupants multiplied by the average weight of each person. This will give you the typical pounds you’ll need your deck to support.
How Much Weight Can a Composite Deck Hold?
A composite deck can also hold about 50 pounds per square foot. It is one of the best options for a hot tub, since it stands the test of time and can be made to be moisture-resistant.
How To Reinforce a Deck for a Spa
If your deck is not designed to bear the weight of a hot tub, you can reinforce the deck to make it more structurally sound. Here are a few ideas for reinforcing your deck:
- Add fasteners to the ledger board.
- Install extra joists, secured with stainless steel deck screws.
- Add extra beams at each corner.
Conclusion
If you’re feeling overwhelmed after reading through these 63 hot tub deck designs, don’t fret! You’re well on your way to creating the deck of your dreams – just pick out a few of your favorite ideas (2 or 3) and put your own spin on them. Mix and match. Share your ideas with others and to get a different perspective. Don’t compromise on your vision, and you’ll soon be showing off your one-of-a-kind hot tub deck to friends and family.
Get an Instant Price Quote on a Hot Tub
Design Your Own Bullfrog Spa
Get an MSRP price quote on a Bullfrog Spa model in your area by starting with our Design Studio software. Build your spa just the way you like it. Once you finish, you’ll receive your instant price quote.
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