Steps, Bars & Sun Shelves

Van Kirk & Sons Pools & Spas

Steps, Bars & Sun Shelves

Add details and stand-out features to your pool with decorative steps, sunbathing shelves, or an in-pool bar. Any of these features help create a relaxing space with fun seating areas and entertainment spaces that make your pool memorable.

Adding custom features for your residential pool can turn your outdoor living area into a beautiful space for you and your guests. At Van Kirk & Sons Pools and Spas, we can help you add steps, sun shelves, and bars that will make your backyard a luxurious and enjoyable living area.

Luxurious modern pool with stepping stones and tropical landscaping at a stylish home, designed by Van Kirk & Sons.

Steps, Bars & Sun Shelves Design Gallery

Contemporary backyard pool with spa, in-water loungers, fire bowls, and covered seating area near lakefront.
Contemporary backyard pool with spa, in-water loungers, fire bowls, and covered seating area near lakefront.

Pool Steps

Pool steps are important in making sure your pool is not only a fun space in your yard but also safe. Steps are an easy way to enter and exit the pool, especially for children, older guests, or those with limited mobility. There are different types of pool step designs to choose from, including.

  • Built-in steps: Permanent fixtures that are typically made with non-slip surfaces for extra safety.
  • Roman steps: Have a wider, more gradual entry with a short slope.
  • Ladder steps: More compact option if you prefer something that focuses on saving space, especially for smaller pools.
  • Corner steps: Can fit easily into tight spaces, making them ideal for small pool layouts.

In addition to pool steps main function, there are additional features available to increase safety even more. You can build steps with a slip-resistant material and add lighting for more visibility during night swims.

Modern backyard oasis with a blue spa, pool, swimming pool steps, and stylish shaded seating area surrounded by lush greenery.

Swim Up Bars

A swim-up bar is a luxury addition to pool designs that transforms it into a great spot for entertaining. This is because it allows guests to enjoy drinks and socialize without having to get out of the water.

Some features of swim-up bars are:

  • Submerged bar stools: Provide comfortable seating in the pool.
  • Countertop area: The perfect spot for drinks and snacks while in the pool.
  • Shade: Swim-up bars usually have features like umbrellas or pergolas to escape the hot sun while enjoying a drink or snack in the pool.  

Many designs also have built-in coolers to keep drinks cold, which works well for pool parties and get-togethers. Some setups even include a mini fridge or ice bucket, making it easy to entertain.

Swim up bar in a blue swimming pool with tiled edges for luxury outdoor design.
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Sun Shelves

This feature is a shallow platform that is normally submerged about 6 to 12 inches deep in the pool. It is a great feature to add if you like lounging or sunbathing in shallow water. It’s also a family-friendly addition for small children because it is a safe splash zone.

A very popular feature with sun shelves is adding lounge chairs directly on the shelf for a resort-style experience. Many designs also come with umbrella sleeves or in-floor lighting in the platform. A sun shelf creates a relaxing, beach-like entry point to your pool, making it the perfect place to host family and friends.

Luxurious wet edge poolside view with modern lounge chairs, outdoor kitchen, and lake backdrop at dusk.

Custom Steps, Bars & Sun Shelves From Van Kirk Pools

Van Kirk Pools is here for you at every step of your pool design journey. We’ll work with you to help you develop your custom luxury pool and guide you as we move through the installation, restoration or renovation process. Our team will handle all the details, including digging, inspections and permits. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about designing and installing the custom pool you’ve always wanted in your yard.

Luxury home with modern pool design, patio, and elegant landscaping under a clear blue sky.

Frequently Asked Questions About Steps, Decks, Bars & Sun Shelves

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What are the benefits of adding steps to my swimming pool?

Swimming pools with steps are functional and beautiful. Steps allow swimmers of any age to swim comfortably by entering and exiting the pool with ease. They also provide a creekside spot for sitting, lounging, or splashing. Designed thoughtfully, they are both a beautiful eye-catcher and a highlight of your pool setting.

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What’s the difference between floating and inground swimming pool steps?

Floating steps seem to “float” off the water, creating a sharp, contemporary appearance. They are generally supported below, which creates a clean, uncomplicated look. In comparison, inground pool steps have a generic, older-style appearance, as they are an integral component of the pool’s shell. Both are customizable to your style and functional requirements.

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Can pool steps double as seating or lounging areas?

Absolutely. Many modern pool step designs feature extended treads or wider platforms. They serve as shallow lounge areas. These dual-purpose steps are ideal for sunbathing, socializing, or savoring a refreshing drink without fully submerging yourself in the water.

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Are sun shelves suitable for all pool sizes?

Yes, sun shelves can be tailored to fit everything from small plunge pools to large resort-style setups. They create a shallow, stylish space that is ideal for kids, pets, or adults who want to relax partly in the water. With different depths and sizes available, a sun shelf can enhance nearly any swimming pool step design.

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How do I maintain a swim-up bar in my pool?

Swim-up bars are easy to maintain when they are designed well. They are made from materials that can handle water and pool chemicals, which helps them last a long time and keeps them easy to clean. Regular maintenance includes wiping down the bar surface, cleaning the submerged stools, and ensuring proper filtration and circulation in that area to prevent stagnation.

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Can I combine a sun shelf with pool stairs in one design?

Yes, combining a sun shelf with pools and stairs is very popular because it offers a lot of functionality. The design can begin with a wide tanning ledge that transitions into deeper steps, forming a versatile entry area that merges visual appeal with practical use. This is great for families or anyone wanting to make the most of their pool space.

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What are some trending modern pool step design ideas?

Trending modern pool step designs include simple geometric shapes, floating steps, built-in lighting, and steps with textured finishes for safety and style. Using different tile colors or materials can help define the steps and enhance the overall look of your pool's layout.

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Do sun shelves require additional plumbing or features?

Although a simple sun shelf does not require additional plumbing, it is common for homeowners to enhance their pool by installing bubblers, LED lighting, or umbrella sleeves. The additions further enhance comfort and atmosphere when combined with intelligent pool automation systems. Your constructor will ensure additions are a good match during fabrication.

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Can I install a swim-up bar if I already have a pool?

Many times, yes. Installing a swim-up bar off a current pool depends on your current configuration, the depth of the pool, and the ease of access to the plumbing. A proper consultation is required to determine if it's feasible. That being said, innovative workarounds like adjacent dry bars or shallow submerged ledges are still an option to give a similar effect.

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How do I choose the right step layout for my pool?

Selecting a suitable design for steps in a swimming pool is based on your pool's shape, its purpose, and the users of your pool. For instance, families are suitable for pools having wide, shallow entry steps. Otherwise, slim corner steps are ideal for other occasions.

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Let’s Talk About Your Next Project

Here at Van Kirk & Sons Pools & Spas, we want to lead you on any custom pool-related journey you desire, as well as be there for you every step of the way, whether you are building a new custom luxury pool or restoring, renovating, or remodeling. We want to provide you with the Van Kirk Difference. Our specially trained staff will guide you through the design phases, sit down with you to plan your vision, and steer the full construction process that includes digging, permits, inspections, and any other phases in this incredible process.

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Winner of Eleven Florida Swimming Pool Association & Nine Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Awards…..And Many Other Prestigious Awards

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Let’s Talk About Your Next Project

Here at Van Kirk & Sons Pools & Spas, we want to lead you on any custom pool related journey you desire, as well as be there for you every step of the way, whether you are building a new custom luxury pool or restoring, renovating, or remodeling, we want to provide you with the Van Kirk Difference. Our specially trained staff will guide you through the design phases, sit down with you to plan your vision, and steer the full construction process that includes digging, permits, inspections, or any other phases in this incredible process.

Van Kirk & Sons Pools & Spas logo with custom pool icon on a teal background.

Van Kirk & Sons Pools & Spas

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