Small Footprint, BIG Impact
Why We Chose a Soake Pool for Our Backyard Transformation
OUTDOOR LIVING
Katie Schaaf
6/11/20264 min read
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my links—at no extra cost to you. I only share products I genuinely love and recommend.
When we first started dreaming about adding a pool to our backyard, we faced the same challenge many homeowners do: limited space.
We wanted something that would create a true backyard retreat without overwhelming our yard. We needed a pool that could serve multiple purposes—family fun, entertaining guests, and creating a beautiful focal point for the space—while still leaving room for outdoor living.
That's exactly why we chose a Soake Pool.
Before: An Underutilized Backyard with Untapped Potential
Our backyard had plenty of potential, but it lacked a focal point, flow, greenery, and shade. Boy did it lack shade! We wanted to create a place that would encourage us to spend more time outdoors while enhancing the overall design of our home.
Traditional pools simply weren't the right fit for our space. Most options felt too large, too expensive, or would have consumed the majority of our backyard.
We knew there had to be a better solution.
Why We Chose a Soake Pool
After researching countless pool options, we discovered Soake Pools and immediately felt like we had found exactly what we were looking for.
Their compact plunge pools are specifically designed for smaller outdoor spaces, making them ideal for homeowners who want the luxury of a pool without sacrificing their entire yard.
But what truly set Soake apart was the experience.
From our very first inquiry through final installation, the team was responsive, knowledgeable, and incredibly easy to work with. They helped guide us through design decisions, coordinated delivery logistics, and worked seamlessly with our contractor team throughout the installation process.
The entire experience felt organized and stress-free—a huge advantage during any major home improvement project.
The Perfect Size for Our Space
We selected a 6-foot by 10-foot Soake Pool with a 5-foot depth.
At first glance, those dimensions may sound small compared to a traditional swimming pool, but that's exactly the point.
The pool fits beautifully within our backyard while still making a dramatic visual impact. It feels intentional rather than oversized and allows the surrounding patio, landscaping, and gathering spaces to shine.
The result is a backyard that feels balanced and thoughtfully designed.
The Upgrades We Would Absolutely Choose Again
Automatic Cover
If you're considering a Soake Pool, our strongest recommendation is to add the automatic cover.
It has been one of the most valuable features of the entire project.
Benefits include:
Improved safety - No giant pool fence needed!
Reduced maintenance
Better heat retention
Cleaner water
A sleek, streamlined appearance when closed
With the flip of a switch, the pool can be secured and protected, making ownership significantly easier.
Waterfall Feature
The second upgrade we would wholeheartedly recommend is the waterfall.
What may seem like a purely aesthetic addition has become one of our favorite features.
The sound of moving water instantly creates a spa-like atmosphere and adds a sense of tranquility to the backyard. It also provides visual movement and elevates the overall design, making the pool feel more luxurious and custom.
For us, both upgrades have been well worth the investment.
Small Pool, Endless Uses
One of the biggest surprises has been just how often we use the pool.
For the Kids
The pool has become a favorite gathering place during warm weather. Whether we're hosting friends, enjoying family afternoons outside, or looking for an easy way to keep the kids entertained, the pool gets constant use.
For Adults
The pool isn't just for the kids.
It's become our favorite place to unwind after a long day, enjoy a quiet morning coffee, or relax with a drink in the evening. The compact size creates a more intimate, resort-like experience that feels perfect for lounging and conversation.
For Entertaining
When guests visit, the pool naturally becomes the centerpiece of the backyard.
People gather around it, kids play in it, and the waterfall provides a beautiful backdrop for outdoor dinners and summer gatherings.
It's one of those features that immediately makes the entire backyard feel elevated.
After: A Backyard Oasis
Looking at our backyard today, it's hard to believe it's the same space.
The Soake Pool transformed the entire feel of our outdoor living area. It added beauty, function, and a true sense of destination without requiring a massive footprint.
The project perfectly embodies the idea that bigger isn't always better.
Sometimes a thoughtfully designed feature in the right size can have the greatest impact of all.
Final Thoughts
If you're considering a pool but have limited backyard space, don't assume your dream is out of reach.
Our 6' x 10' Soake Pool proves that a small pool can deliver an outsized impact. Between the thoughtful design, excellent customer experience, and versatility of the finished product, it has easily become one of our favorite home investments.
For our family, it serves as a play space, relaxation retreat, entertainment hub, and design feature all in one.
And that's exactly what we hoped for when we started this journey.
Small footprint. BIG impact.
