Plunge Pools: A Smart, Stylish Solution for Compact Luxury in Nashville Backyards
In Middle Tennessee, where the summers are hot and outdoor living is a way of life, plunge pools are quickly becoming one of the most desirable backyard upgrades. Whether you’re working with a tight urban courtyard or looking to enhance a sprawling estate, a plunge pool delivers the perfect mix of luxury, relaxation, and efficient design.
At Allison Companies, we specialize in crafting custom outdoor environments for high-end homes, and plunge pools have become one of our most requested features. Here's why homeowners across Nashville, Franklin, Brentwood, and surrounding areas are choosing plunge pools and how we make the experience seamless from concept to completion.
What Is a Plunge Pool?
A plunge pool is a small, deep pool designed for soaking, wading, hydrotherapy, or simply cooling off. While it lacks the size of a traditional swimming pool, it makes up for it with style, energy efficiency, and low maintenance. Most plunge pools range between 10 to 20 feet long and 4 to 6 feet deep, offering the perfect balance between functionality and space-saving design.
Unlike large pools that dominate a yard, plunge pools are meant to fit harmoniously within the landscape—enhancing your outdoor living area rather than overwhelming it.
Why Plunge Pools Are Perfect for Middle Tennessee Homes
From Nashville’s historic neighborhoods to modern builds in Brentwood and Murfreesboro, property sizes and layouts vary widely. Plunge pools are ideal because they’re flexible enough to complement any setting. Here are the biggest reasons they make sense for our region:
Efficient Use of Space
Backyards in Nashville are getting smaller, especially in new developments. A plunge pool offers the experience of a private oasis without sacrificing the rest of your outdoor space. You’ll still have room for a fire pit, dining area, garden, or lounge seating.
Year-Round Enjoyment
Thanks to Tennessee’s seasonal variety, plunge pools offer both summer cooling and winter soaking. Add a heater or built-in spa jets, and your plunge pool becomes a warm, therapeutic retreat even in the colder months.
Lower Maintenance and Cost
Smaller size means less water, fewer chemicals, and reduced upkeep. If you're a busy homeowner who still wants the luxury of a private pool, a plunge pool is the perfect fit.
Custom Plunge Pool Designs to Match Your Lifestyle
At Allison Companies, we take a design-first approach to plunge pools. That means your pool is more than a water feature, it’s part of a complete luxury environment. Every detail is tailored to your preferences, including:
1. Size & Shape
Our custom plunge pools come in a variety of configurations, from sleek rectangles to organic curves. We'll assess your available space and create a pool that fits beautifully.
2. Materials & Finishes
Choose between gunite (concrete) or fiberglass construction, depending on your timeline and budget. Customize your finish with options like:
- Glass or mosaic tile
- Natural stone coping
- PebbleTec or quartz interiors
3. Features & Accessories
Enhance your plunge pool with spa-like amenities:
- Hydrotherapy jets
- LED lighting
- Built-in benches or tanning ledges
- Waterfalls or fountains
- Smart automation (control your pool from your smartphone)
Whether you prefer a minimalist design or a fully integrated spa experience, your plunge pool will reflect your vision.
Plunge Pools vs. Traditional Swimming Pools
If you're deciding between a full-size pool and a plunge pool, here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Plunge Pool | Traditional Pool |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 10–20 ft long, 4–6 ft deep | 25+ ft long, up to 8 ft deep |
| Installation Time | 4–6 weeks | Several months |
| Maintenance | Low: fewer chemicals & cleaning | High: more time & cost involved |
| Use | Soaking, relaxing, hydrotherapy | Lap swimming, larger gatherings |
| Heating Cost | Low | High |
| Space Needed | Small backyards, courtyards | Large open yard required |
| Design Options | Fully customizable | Custom, but more complex |
Energy Efficiency & Sustainability
More homeowners are prioritizing eco-friendly design, and plunge pools offer clear advantages:
- Lower water usage: Less to fill and maintain.
- Smaller pumps and heaters: Use less energy.
- Solar covers and efficient equipment: Help retain heat and reduce evaporation.
- LED lighting: Enhances mood while saving power.
At Allison Companies, we can incorporate the latest energy-efficient technology to help you build a pool that’s as smart as it is stunning.
Integration with Outdoor Living Spaces
One of the greatest benefits of a plunge pool is that it integrates beautifully with other outdoor living features. We often pair plunge pools with:
- Covered pavilions
- Outdoor kitchens
- Stone fireplaces or fire pits
- Landscaped garden beds
- Custom patios or decking
This makes it easy to create an all-in-one space for relaxing, entertaining, and escaping without ever leaving home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can plunge pools be used year-round?
Yes. Many of our clients add heaters, turning their plunge pool into a warm spa in the winter. Some also install chillers to keep the water cool during hot summers.
Do plunge pools work in small or oddly shaped yards?
Absolutely. One of the key benefits is their flexibility. We’ve installed plunge pools in tight courtyards, narrow side yards, and even sloped lots across Nashville.
How long does installation take?
While traditional pools can take months, plunge pools are typically installed in 4–6 weeks after permitting and design approvals.
Are plunge pools expensive?
They cost significantly less than traditional pools in terms of installation, materials, and ongoing maintenance. We work with each client to develop a solution that fits both their vision and budget.
What’s the difference between a plunge pool and a hot tub?
Plunge pools are larger than hot tubs and can be used for both warm soaking and cool dips. They’re deeper and offer more versatility than standard spas.
Why Choose Allison Companies for Your Plunge Pool?
We’re not just pool builders—we’re outdoor living specialists with over 40 years of experience designing luxurious, custom spaces for discerning homeowners. When you choose Allison Companies, you get:
- Design-Build Simplicity: One team handles everything—from initial consultation and 3D renderings to final construction and landscaping.
- Tailored Craftsmanship: Every pool is custom-built to match your style and preferences.
- Local Expertise: We know Middle Tennessee’s terrain, weather, and permitting process inside and out.
- High-End Results: From the materials we use to the details we deliver, your plunge pool will be a centerpiece of your home for years to come.
Transform Your Backyard into a Private Retreat
A plunge pool is more than just a pool—it’s a personalized escape designed to bring relaxation and luxury to your daily life. Whether you live in downtown Nashville or a scenic property in Franklin, Allison Companies can help you create a stunning, compact oasis that feels anything but small.
Call (615) 859‑5095 or contact us today to schedule your design consultation. Let’s build the plunge pool—and backyard—you’ve been dreaming of.