A Designer's Guide to Hot Tub Landscaping (Tips, Tricks & More)

Designing a hot tub surrounded by lush landscapes can bring beauty, relaxation and comfort to any outdoor area. However, with many considerations to consider, such as the size and shape of the tub, deck or surrounding patio area and the type of plants you'd like to include in the design, it can often feel overwhelming when starting out.

That's why we've compiled this comprehensive designer's guide full of tips, tricks and ideas to make hot tub landscaping as easy as possible! Read on for our advice on everything from materials to furniture.

The basics of hot tub landscaping

You'll want to choose a size and shape that fits your outdoor space and hot tub water temperatures, heaters and other equipment to fit your hot tub needs.

Next, you'll need to consider the material you'd like to use for the hot tub frame or deck area – wood is often popular, but you could also opt for composite material or stone.

Consider the hot tub's placement, deciding if it will be installed on ground level, elevated or placed in an alcove. Ensure hot tub parts and equipment are accessible for regular maintenance.

Set a budget for your landscaping project

Setting a budget for your hot tub landscaping project can save time and money. Before you opt for hot tub landscaping on a budget, it's essential to consider all the possible costs associated with the project. Most importantly, you must consider whether you can do the majority of the labour yourself or if you will need to hire contractors to assist with larger jobs.

Once every cost has been assessed, setting a realistic budget should be easy. Carefully plan ahead what materials or items will be needed and determine how much you will pay for each item without breaking the bank. With careful planning, setting a budget for your hot tub landscaping project can help ensure a successful outcome without breaking the bank.

Consider which landscaping elements you'd like to include

When thinking about hot tub landscaping, there are so many options to choose from. From adding a hot tub deck around your round hot tub for easy access to incorporating more striking landscaping elements such as outdoor lighting, pathways and retaining walls - the possibilities are endless. Creating an outdoor oasis can easily be achieved with beautiful plants, hidden seating areas and even a luxurious hot tub cover that adds additional privacy and style. Through unique hot tub landscaping additions, you can form an outdoor sanctuary that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing - perfect for hosting family events or unwinding after a long day at work.

Achieving balance through symmetry and colour

Hot tub landscaping is a great way to achieve balance and symmetry in your backyard. You can utilise hot tubs to create clean lines around the hot tub area and offset them with blended colours of plants nearby. Using colours complementing one another will create a beautiful backdrop for your hot tub area. You can mix and match natural beauty using an array of flowering plants like white lilies, purple irises, and yellow roses.

Symmetry also plays an important role when landscaping hot tub areas as it adds an extra layer of order that can make the finish look more professional. Choose hot tub models that match the surrounding landscape and create a unified look with hot tub covers or hot tub steps in colours that blend with the surrounding area.

Creating cohesion with garden furniture and lighting

Landscaping can create a unique outdoor space with the right combination of garden furniture and lighting. Whether aiming for a festive, inviting atmosphere or an intimate, cosy space, hot tub landscaping can help to configure comfort and enjoyment. It is vital to ensure near-perfect cohesion regarding garden furniture and lighting to maximise the visual appeal of your outdoor area.

Select shapes that are harmonious and colours that go together. Use outdoor couch accessories such as throws and pillows to soften the look with texture and comfort. By carefully considering furniture, lighting fixtures, and decorative accents like planters, hot tub landscaping can truly transform a backyard into a multi-functional paradise.

Bear the practicality of your hot tub in mind

Whilst investing in your hot tub landscaping project, never forget to consider the practicality of the hot tub. As well as providing an aesthetically pleasing space, it is necessary to think about factors such as electricity and water sources necessary for running a hot tub safely. If you plan on using your hot tub outdoors, ensure there is enough space to place and access the hot tub safely.

Invest in equipment to make sure your hot tub is running efficiently, including filters and heating systems to maintain optimum water temperature through colder seasons. Additionally, consider installing a pool cover or fence around the hot tub area for additional safety, as well as to keep outdoor pests out of the hot tub. If you prefer enjoying a summertime oak in your hot tub, you can choose to install a seating area or gazebo to provide shade.

Creative ways to make your landscaping project stand out

For those looking for creative ways to make their landscaping project stand out, hot tub landscaping is a unique and fun way to add some additional aesthetic interest. From built-in hot tubs with tiled walls and intricate stone designs to outdoor hot tubs surrounded by lush plants, there are many ways you can make your landscaping project stand out. Try adding different levels of lighting fixtures to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for evening swims, or add colourful flags or wind chimes for additional decoration.

How to design a low-maintenance garden landscape

When opting for a low-maintenance garden landscape, it is important to choose plants that are suitable for the climate and soil types. Consider installing perennials such as daisies or black-eyed Susans which require minimal effort but still add beautiful colour and texture to your hot tub landscaping project. Ground cover plants like creeping thyme can require little maintenance but can provide a beautiful carpet of foliage around the hot tub area.

Rock gardens are an excellent way to add greenery with minimal effort — they do not require much water or upkeep compared to other vegetation types. With these two elements in place, you have an easily maintainable landscape that will turn heads every time.

FAQs

Should a hot tub be in the sun or shade?

One of the most important factors to consider when deciding whether to keep a hot tub in the sun or shade is how much use it will get. A hot tub in direct sunlight will naturally warm up faster and stay hotter for longer, making it perfect for anyone wanting to frequently enjoy a ready-to-use hot tub without waiting around while the water warms up.

On the other hand, if someone only uses their hot tub occasionally, then positioning it in an area that gets some shade can mean that they won't have to worry as much about it overheating or evaporating too quickly. You should also consider safety, as sitting in a hot tub directly in the summer sun may lead to your body overheating if you don't take the necessary precautions.

Ultimately, deciding where to place the hot tub based on sun or shade should come down to what is most suitable for your environment and intended usage.

Can a hot tub be positioned up against a house?

Yes, a hot tub can be positioned either against or away from the house. If you are opting for a built-in or in-ground hot tub, then it is usually best to place it against the side of your house for better support and stability, as well as easier access.

However, if you are opting for a freestanding hot tub or spa, then you should ensure that there is enough space between it and your house so that the heat from the hot tub does not impact your home's insulation. Finally, you should check your local regulations regarding where hot tubs can be positioned before making any decisions.

How much space do I need around my hot tub?

The area should be large enough for the occupants to move around safely and even have room to stretch out. A few feet of extra space is also advisable since you'll need additional room for items like easy access steps, cover storage systems, and towel stands.

Typically, at least 4 feet of space is suggested on all sides of your hot tub, more if there are level changes, slopes hills in your yard. Additionally, all electrical components should be located 5 feet away from the tub's edge to ensure user safety and prevent accidental shock or electrocution.

Can you stand a hot tub on grass?

Hot tubs have become a luxurious addition to many backyards, but you may wonder if it's possible to put your hot tub on grass. The answer is yes - it is possible to stand a hot tub on grass, especially considering that most modern hot tubs feature adjustable feet so they can be levelled securely with the ground surface.

For the hot tub to stay level and avoid shifting or sinking in the ground over time, owners need to take steps such as removing the grass surrounding the area where the hot tub will go beforehand and levelling out any soft spots or bumps where the feet of the unit will set down. Doing this increases safety when entering and exiting your hot tub and ensures your investment stays securely in place and protected against potential damage.

Conclusion

Creating a hot tub landscape that enhances the overall look of your outdoor space can be easy and enjoyable if you know what to look for. From choosing the right plants to having enough space around your hot tub, taking note of these details is essential. With the proper landscaping guide, regular maintenance and chemical care, hot tub owners can ensure that their space is always safe and comfortable, no matter the season.

Click here to read our ultimate guide to hot tub maintenance.