Pool Side Seating ~ Making The Most Of Your Entertaining Space

If your home features an in ground swimming pool, you are no stranger to hosting great numbers of summer guests.  While there is no doubt that your blue water is the main attraction, comfortably accommodating your guests requires that you dress the pool area with the right entertaining components.  Style, design and the ability to withstand the natural challenges of a poolside location are primary factors in selecting outdoor decor pieces.  Choosing the perfect pool side pieces will allow your guests comfort, as well as keep your outdoor gatherings running smoothly.

Provide Adequate Seating
While most guests will enjoy a refreshing turn in the pool, others prefer to relax pool side.   Providing your guests with comfortable seating, for relaxing, dining, chatting and simply taking a break from swimming fun is essential.   Nothing can create an entertaining crisis as quickly as a lack of seating for your guests.

Accommodate Your Guests Needs

Prior to making pool side purchases, consider the guest activities you will need to accommodate.  Comfortable pool side chaise lounges are essential for relaxing and sunning, however are not ideal seating options for guests who wish to visit and chat out of the sun or for treating your guest to a pool side meal.   Plan and create inviting areas with specialized seating for all your guests needs.  In addition to lounge chairs, adding a dining set with a large, adjustable canopy will provide the perfect seating for serving meals and drinks.  Selecting pool side dining sets that include sling back chairs will provide your guests with comfort and will stand up to soggy swimmers.

Create Guest Haven In Shade
Extend your party by providing a haven in the shade to allow your guests to refresh in cool comfort and provide a quiet and comfortable chatting area.   Adding a "no splash" zone with cushioned seating can provide a wonderful respite for your guests as well as additional dining space.  Planning this area in view of the pool will adults their own space to gather while still keeping a watchful eye on their swimmers.  Whether under a pergola or on a covered patio, the availability of his haven will be appreciated by guests and host alike.

Carve Out Seating Nooks 

Placing attractive Bistro Sets in corners of the garden and in nooks about the pool area can quickly expand your seating capacity while allowing your guests additional options.  Add to appeal of these smaller entertaining areas by adding additional features, such as attractive planters or water features.

Create Seating In Empty Spaces

Line empty space with weatherproof benches within the pool area or add comfort to a cement bench with cushions in colorful outdoor fabrics.  Many pool side storage boxes are designed to also serve as emergency seating and can prove useful for storing pool toys and supplies, as well as accommodate your guests.

The opinions above are both honest and of my own experiences.   Images sourced from various Amzaon.com retailers.