My Plan for the Ultimate Pool Party Oasis: A Quest to Be the Host with the Most (Awesome Pool on the Block) - PART ONE

My Plan for the Ultimate Pool Party Oasis: A Quest to Be the Host with the Most (Awesome Pool on the Block) - PART ONE
by Robert Coles

About Me – Backyard Entertainer in Nashville, TN

Let me set the scene: I’m a mid-30s single guy living just outside of Nashville, Tennessee. Music City vibes? Absolutely. I’ve got a great group of friends and family, a love for grilling, and a serious soft spot for lazy pool days with a cold drink in hand.

For years, I’ve been bouncing from one party to the next—showing up with a six-pack, hanging out at someone else’s house, and low-key wishing I was the guy hosting.

Turning My Backyard Into the Ultimate Hangout

And then it hit me: Why am I watching from the sidelines? I’ve got a pool, I’ve got space, and I’ve got a vision.

It’s time to build something that isn’t just “nice,” but next level. A place where people want to come over, stay a while, and make memories. Think BBQs that turn into game nights, pool days that blend into fire pit conversations, and weekends where my place is the only place anyone wants to be.

My Mission: From Underused to Unforgettable

Let’s be honest—we all want to be that friend. The one with the house where everyone naturally gathers, where the vibe is always just right, and where the grill is always hot.

I got tired of watching my friends host the best parties while my backyard sat there, full of potential but totally underused. So I’m making it my mission to transform my outdoor space into an all-season entertainment paradise with multiple zones for every kind of hangout:

  • A spot for grilling and chilling.
  • A place for floating and lounging in the pool.
  • A cozy fire pit area for late-night convos.
  • Artificial turf for backyard games and competitions.

Yeah, I’ll admit it—I want my friends to walk in and go, “Okay, this is sick.” But I’m not just throwing money around. I’m all about smart investments—in things that add value to my home and my life.

Why Investing in Outdoor Living Pays Off

This isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about lifestyle and value:

  • Outdoor upgrades can boost your home’s value by up to 12% (source).
  • Backyards with living spaces are highly desirable in areas like Middle Tennessee.
  • 70% of homeowners say they’ve had more fun and entertaining experiences post-renovation (source).

I’m not just chasing vibes here—I’m building a better way to live.

The Inspiration Behind It All

Honestly? My friends are the reason. And maybe a little bit of Monica Geller, too. I want to be the guy who hosts, creates the memories, and brings everyone together—right in my own backyard.

Backyard Design Inspiration – Creating the Ultimate Outdoor Hangout

There’s a scene from Friends that always stuck with me. The one where Monica and Rachel lose that trivia game and have to switch apartments with Chandler and Joey. Monica, being Monica, becomes obsessed with making their new place the hangout spot. She stays up for three days trying to make it perfect—and when everyone finally comes over, she’s too tired to enjoy it.

I get it.

I want my place to be that go-to hangout. But I’m not planning to burn myself out doing it. With the right pieces—and a little help from AquaBlu Mosaics—I’m building something that feels high-end, low-stress, and completely me.

Backyard Design Inspiration: Finding My Outdoor Aesthetic

Before I start throwing things in my cart, I need a little design direction. I know I want something that feels laid-back but elevated—kind of like my favorite boutique hotels, but with a personal touch. So, I’m looking to a few designers who really get the art of creating a vibe. Here’s who’s helping shape the vision for my backyard oasis:

Carly McCoy – Backyard Oasis Design Studio

Carly’s work is exactly what the name suggests—pure oasis energy. Her designs are packed with personality but still super functional. What stands out most to me is how she carves out zones within a backyard, creating flow without making things feel too structured.

Her use of natural elements like wood, stone, and water features inspires me to keep things grounded but stylish. Plus, she’s a master at outdoor lighting—which I’m definitely stealing for my fire pit area.

👉 Get inspired by Carly

Silvana – Stella Lux Designs

Silvana knows how to do modern minimalism right. What I love about her approach is how she keeps things simple, but never boring. She focuses on quality outdoor furniture that speaks for itself, and her spaces always feel curated but not fussy.

She’s big on modular seating and ambient lighting, which made me think differently about how I set up my lounge and seating areas. Less clutter, more intentional comfort.

👉 See Silvana’s style

Pool Accessories – The Fun Starts Here

This is where the backyard really starts to come alive. I don’t just want a pool—I want a poolside destination. A place where my friends can float, lounge, laugh, and just let loose. These premium pool accessories from AquaBlu Mosaics bring that vision to life.

Ledge Lounger Partypad Swim-Up Bar

Let’s start with what might be my favorite addition: the Partypad Swim-Up Bar. Picture this—hot Saturday afternoon, grill’s fired up, music’s on, everyone’s in the pool. But instead of running inside for drinks, we’re gathered around a floating bar, ice-cold beverages right at our fingertips.

What I love about the Partypad is how functional and fun it is. It’s not just a gimmick—it’s solid, well-made, and totally the center of attention. Built-in cup holders? Game changer. There’s space for snacks, drinks, and even a waterproof speaker blasting summer vibes. It looks cool too—resort-level cool.

👉 Grab your own Partypad

Ledge Lounger Laze Pillow

Ledge Lounger Laze Pillow

Next up, the Laze Pillow. This isn’t your average float—it’s a giant, cushy floating bed that’s perfect for sunbathing, drifting around, or taking a mid-afternoon chill break. No flimsy plastic here—this thing is durable, comfortable, and totally luxurious.

I didn’t think I needed one of these at first. Now? I might need two. It’s everyone’s favorite float. It’s like floating on a cloud, but with sunshine and a cold drink in hand.

👉 See the Laze Pillow

Kai Pacific Blue Luxury Pool Float

Kai Pacific Blue Luxury Pool Float

The Kai Pacific Blue Float is my personal throne. Sleek, stylish, and ridiculously comfortable, it’s my go-to for lounging solo. With a built-in headrest and drink holder, it’s like they designed it just for me.

This float doesn’t sag, doesn’t deflate—it’s built for all-day comfort. And the color? That Pacific Blue pops beautifully against the pool water without being too loud. It’s the perfect mix of style and function.

👉 Get floating

Wrapping Up Part One: The Pool is Just the Beginning

So far, we’ve covered the mission—why I’m transforming my backyard into the ultimate hangout—and some game-changing pool accessories that kicked off the transformation.

But here’s the thing: while the pool might steal the show on a hot day, the real magic happens when the sun goes down. In Part Two, I’ll show you how I’m building out the rest of the space with luxury outdoor furniture, in-pool loungers, cabanas, and stunning fire and water features that keep the vibe going well into the night.

This is where my backyard really starts to feel like a full-on destination.