As an avid swimmer with an eye for design, I often find myself at a constant impasse because, frankly, most pool designs are uninspired. Thankfully, Dakota Johnson's gorgeous lap pool has renewed my hope.
I first spotted this long, narrow lap pool in a photo from the actress's home tour, and it is truly transformative. The water abuts her modern wooden home, featuring slate edging and a deep blue surface that looks particularly striking as the spring sun begins to hit the water. In the photo, Dakota sits peacefully in front of the pool on a white wire furniture set.
The pool area is exceptional for several reasons. Primarily, the length makes it the ideal spot for exercise without requiring a massive footprint. It is easy to imagine crisp, bright mornings waking up with the early sunrise to swim laps.
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Beyond the pool, Dakota's garden is a trove of outdoor furniture inspiration. I particularly love the curved chairs (like these from Amazon) with a beautiful mid-century modern ambiance that is so on trend. Here are my favorite curved wire mesh pieces for replicating the look.
Sometimes, only the original will do. This striking pair of sculptural chairs captures the essence of mid-century modern design – and yes, they’re the exact style Dakota favors by her poolside.
This streamlined, mesh design echoes Dakota’s signature rounded furniture. Perfect for hot days, it keeps you cool while giving your backyard a clean, mid-century modern edge
This colorful curved set is ultra-stylish at a great price for two chairs and a small table. It is available in pink, navy, teal, or matte green for added interest.
Skip the expense of mains-powered lighting – these elegant floating solar pool lights add a striking glow after dark, are easy to install, and come in a wide range of styles to suit any backyard.
Crafted from eucalyptus wood with galvanized steel hardware, this lounge chair combines comfort and resilience, built to handle the elements (even in colder winter climates).
This solar lantern brightens borders, edges, and pathways while adding instant visual interest after dark. Its intricate cut-out design is the standout feature – and always a conversation starter.
Another element I adore about Dakota's pool patio idea is that it resembles a moat surrounding her modern home. For someone who grew up loving stories of royalty, I find the concept incredibly romantic, yet I love how this specific execution feels entirely contemporary.
The integration of natural materials also contributes to the beauty of the space. The design blends seamlessly with the grass – giving it a lagoon-like quality – while the mix of stone and greenery offers a cool, inviting palette that feels especially welcoming as we head into the warmer months. Because the water is flush with the ground, it feels like a natural body of water rather than an artificial addition.
When it comes to pool maintenance, Dakota's design is a dream. Since the footprint is so narrow, it doesn't require widespread netting to catch falling leaves. The water quality is simple to test, and the slim shape makes it easy to cover once the swimming season has passed.
Combining your hobbies with your aesthetic choices is a wonderful way to make a home feel personal, and a fabulous pool is the perfect place to start.
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