Why We Chose A Soake Pool for Shelter for the Storms
Simply, it just fits.
Our backyard isn’t sprawling. It’s charming, yes. Inviting, absolutely. But sprawling? Non. (Cue wistful sighs and Mediterranean daydreams.) What it lacks in size, though, it more than makes up for in intentional design. Enter: our Soake Pool—the ultimate game-changer for any outdoor space, big or small, and, dare I say, the crown jewel of Shelter for the Storms. test
If you’ve been following our Midwest Modernish™ journey, you’ve seen the emphasis we’ve placed on balancing functionality and beauty at every turn. Soake Pools fit right in with that philosophy, becoming a centerpiece of our outdoor space that reflects our family-forward, grounded aesthetic—infused, of course, with just the right amount of adventure.
Perfect for Any Space, Big or Small
If you’re looking for small pool ideas for your backyard, whether your outdoor space is grand or compact, Soake Pools are designed to feel like they’ve always belonged—seamlessly merging style, function, and so much luxury. Their lineup includes the spacious Full Plunge (13′x7′), the perfectly balanced Medium Plunge (10′x6′)—which we chose for our home—and even the adorable Petite Plunge (8′9″x5′). Bonus points for the Square Plunge (7′x7′) with all-around seating or the dedicated Cold Plunge (4′x4′) for those brave enough to embrace full hydrotherapy mode.
Our Medium Plunge gave us the perfect gathering spot without overpowering the backyard—a win for both design and function.
Customizable to Your Heart’s Content
If there’s one thing we love in this house, it’s a chance to tie statement elements together into a larger narrative -- thankfully Soake Pools lets you tailor your pool to fit your vision, from tile choices to step configurations.
For our inground plunge pool, we chose a striking High Ridge Nightfall Black tile (12"x24") that seamlessly integrates with the modern design of our home while evoking the chic sophistication of pools in Europe or the Hamptons. It gives the water a reflective, mirror-like quality that feels timeless and luxurious—just the vibe we wanted for our outdoor space.
And let’s not forget the covers! Whether it’s a sleek aluminum roll cover, a handcrafted wooden option or (we chose this option) an integrated / automatic cover that opens and closes at the flip of a switch, Soake Pools combines practicality with serious aesthetic appeal. It’s the little things that make a big difference.
Fast and Easy Installation
In the world of custom homebuilding, the words “fast and easy” don’t exactly come up often. But Soake Pools delivered both. Their pre-cast concrete shells and streamlined installation process mean you can go from dreaming to dipping in record time. For us, this meant having the pool ready just in time for the holidays, when the kids came home from college and turned it into a warm water movie night hub (popcorn not included, but highly recommended).
European Elegance Meets Everyday Charm
I’ve always been a lover of that old-world European vibe—you know, the kind that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret garden in the South of France. Soake Pools capture that essence perfectly. They’re charming, stylish, and timeless—like a hidden gem you’d discover wandering cobblestone streets on a European holiday.
Year-Round Fun for the Whole Family
Midwest living means embracing all four seasons (sometimes all in one day), so having a pool that works year-round is a major win. In the summer, it’s our go-to spot for cooling off with the kids. And when winter rolls around? Crank up the heat, sink into the warm water, and suddenly it’s the coziest retreat on the block. There’s something magical about watching the snow fall while you’re toasty in a heated pool—trust me, it’s worth the frostbitten dash to get there.
(True confession: I started taking home the “free” slippers from hotels, they are great for walking across our pavers in the cold, to the pool, and keeping our feet warm! )
Whether we’re unwinding in the warm water or cooling off in the summer, the versatility of a pool and a hot tub combination makes it our favorite spot, no matter the season.
Design That Delivers
One of the guiding principles of Shelter for the Storms has been creating a home that is as functional as it is beautiful. Soake Pools embodies this balance perfectly. It’s more than just a pool—it’s an anchor for our outdoor space, a gathering spot for our family, and a design statement that enhances the overall aesthetic.
The Final Verdict
Adding a Soake Pool to Shelter for the Storms wasn’t just a design decision—it was a lifestyle choice. It’s become the heart of our backyard, harmonizing beautifully with the other intentional design details of Shelter for the Storms. It’s where we cool off in the summer, warm up in the winter, and make countless memories with family and friends.
If you’re considering a plunge pool in Chicago for your own home, I can’t recommend Soake Pools enough. Their thoughtful design, endless customization options, and ability to fit beautifully in any size space make them an exceptional choice. Learn more and explore all their options at Soake Pools and DM us any time for more information. Don’t forget to tell Soake you heard it here first!
