By Sean West
Walk through any hotel and you’ll see millions spent on marble lobbies and designer furniture, but step outside to the pool deck? That’s where it becomes apparent the budget ran out—even though it’s often the first place guests head to and the last place they want to leave.
A well-designed pool area does more than complement your property; it actively shapes how your guests will perceive your brand. It’s about creating memorable, enjoyable experiences that your guests will share with others and making lasting impressions while driving profitability.
Prioritize safety and comfort
Safety isn’t optional—it’s essential. Few things disrupt a guest’s experience more than a slip-and-fall incident, especially around pool decks where wet conditions are inevitable. Investing in slip-resistant surfaces isn’t just smart—it’s non-negotiable.
The slip-resistant technology gives guests solid footing, stays cool even in blazing sun and has that impact-absorbing layer that makes walking around the pool actually comfortable. When hotels choose to use slip-resistant surfaces, they’re not just covering their liability—they’re showing guests they care about their safety and comfort.
Prioritizing safety isn’t just preventative—it’s strategic. Safer environments reduce your liability and protect your brand’s reputation. Guests will appreciate the additional safety measures, which translate into higher satisfaction rates and positive reviews.
Another priority should be comfort; guests spend much of their leisure time barefoot by the pool, and comfort directly influences guest satisfaction. Decking surfaces that become unbearably hot in direct sunlight will ruin the relaxing experience guests expect. A comfortable guest is a happier guest who will be more likely to spend and return.
Build Instagrammable backdrops
Design plays a vital role, and your pool deck should be as photogenic as your property’s interior. Today, creating Instagram-worthy settings isn’t just nice to look at—it’s necessary for your hospitality business. With customizable color blends and design flexibility, surfacing upgrades can turn your ordinary pool areas into perfect backdrops for memorable social media moments. These attractive visuals effortlessly boost your brand’s online presence, organically attracting new guests to your property.
Integrating design with your property’s overall aesthetic ensures cohesion and authenticity—elements that are critical for appealing to guests seeking memorable, visually pleasing experiences.
Maximize versatility and functionality
Versatility turns a standard pool deck into a multifunctional venue-ready space and a major revenue generator. The smartest pool decks do double duty. During the day, families splash around and couples relax. But when the sun sets? That same space becomes prime real estate for weddings, corporate events or intimate gatherings.
Think poolside movie nights, sunrise yoga, cocktail parties or live entertainment. Each event is another revenue stream, and guests eat it up—they’d rather stay on property for their special moments than venture elsewhere.
Versatility is both practical and profitable. Flexible spaces allow your property to accommodate a wide range of events and activities, appealing to diverse guest preferences and unlocking multiple revenue streams.
Host revenue-generating events
When it comes to pool decks, hosting events is a strategic goldmine. Weddings, corporate functions, themed events and private celebrations draw crowds and offer excellent opportunities for upselling tickets, beverages and VIP packages. Beautifully designed, versatile decks are prime rental opportunities commanding premium rates. Guests are drawn to unique, inviting outdoor spaces, making your property the first choice for memorable occasions.
Developing your deck as an event venue boosts immediate revenue and solidifies your property’s reputation as the go-to destination for special occasions, building long-term loyalty and repeat business.
Embrace wellness trends
Wellness trends also offer attractive revenue-generating possibilities. From sunrise yoga to aqua aerobics, integrating popular wellness activities drives increased bookings and additional revenue streams. These activities are easy to schedule, require minimal setup and can be monetized as part of wellness packages or à la carte classes. Offering these sought-after services in an attractive, comfortable poolside setting can set your property apart in an increasingly competitive hospitality market.
Wellness-focused amenities attract guests specifically seeking relaxing, rejuvenating and health-conscious experiences, broadening your brand appeal and enhancing your competitive advantage.
Reduce operational overhead with low-maintenance solutions
Traditional pool decking is a maintenance nightmare—constant repairs, regular refinishing and always something going wrong at the worst possible moment. Reduced maintenance means fewer disruptions, more reliable guest experiences,and optimized operational efficiency, allowing your team to focus on enhancing guest services and amenities rather than repairs.
Drive loyalty through experiences
Lastly, guests seeking luxury and enhanced comfort will willingly invest in premium experiences, bolstering your overall profitability and elevating your brand positioning. Reserved loungers, shaded daybeds or VIP cabanas create a sense of exclusivity for luxury-seeking travelers. These upscale touches allow your property to capture additional revenue while enhancing guest satisfaction.
Final thoughts
Ultimately, pool decks are much more than just something to walk on. They’re where memories are made, where guests will decide if they’ll return for a future visit and where smart properties can make serious money. Nail the basics—safety, comfort, great looks and easy maintenance—and watch your pool area become one of your biggest assets.
Sean West is VP, sales at Deckology. He has nearly two decades of experience in the commercial pool deck industry.
This is a contributed piece to Hotel Business, authored by an industry professional. The thoughts expressed are the perspective of the bylined individual.
