Landscaping is a cornerstone of luxury home design, setting the stage for outdoor living that’s both functional and beautiful. In 2025, luxury landscapes are about creating immersive outdoor experiences, particularly around pools and hot tubs, while embracing plants that thrive in your region (for us, that’s Arkansas, so this blog is specific to the southern United States). If you’re considering an upgrade, let’s take a deep dive into landscaping trends, plant recommendations, and cost estimates to elevate your property.
Trends in Pool and Hot Tub Landscaping
Pools and hot tubs are no longer standalone features – they’ve evolved into integrated outdoor spaces designed for relaxation and entertainment. Here are the key trends shaping pool and hot tub landscapes in 2025:
1. Resort-Style Design
- Infinity Pools: Pools with vanishing edges create the illusion of blending into the surrounding landscape, perfect for lakefront or hillside properties.
- Integrated Spas: Hot tubs that flow seamlessly into pools, both in design and function, are becoming a hallmark of luxury.
- Baja Shelves: Shallow platforms in pools offer a space to lounge in the water, perfect for sunbathing or placing chairs.
- Water Features: Cascading waterfalls, deck jets, and bubblers add dynamic movement and soothing soundscapes to pool areas.
2. Surrounding Spaces
- Fire and Water Combos: Fire bowls near pools or built-in fire pits adjacent to hot tubs add a dramatic and cozy element.
- Outdoor Kitchens and Bars: Poolside dining areas with grills, beverage fridges, and bar seating keep entertaining seamless.
- Cabanas and Pergolas: These shaded structures offer chic lounging options, complete with plush seating and curtains for privacy.
3. Lighting and Technology
- LED Lighting: Color-changing underwater LED lights create a magical nighttime ambiance. (Here at Overnight Digs, Omni Tech Solutions is our local go-to lighting installation company for custom features.)
- Automation: Smart pool systems allow homeowners to control temperature, jets, and lighting from their smartphones.
- Heating Innovations: Solar-powered or energy-efficient heat pumps are now standard for eco-conscious pool and spa owners.
Average Cost for Pool and Hot Tub Installations
- Inground Pool: $35,000–$100,000+ depending on size, materials, and features (e.g., infinity edges or integrated spas).
- Hot Tub: $5,000–$25,000+ depending on whether it’s standalone or part of a pool system.
- Landscaping Around Pools/Hot Tubs: $10,000–$50,000+ for features like lighting, decking, fire pits, and pergolas.
Plants That Thrive in Arkansas and the Southern United States
Selecting the right plants for luxury landscaping ensures beauty, resilience, and low maintenance. Here are top choices for Southern gardens that complement pools, hot tubs, and outdoor spaces:
1. Ornamental Grasses
- Muhly Grass: Known for its pink, feathery plumes in the fall, it’s a low-maintenance choice for borders or near water features.
- Fountain Grass: Adds texture and height, perfect for framing pool edges or softening hardscapes.
2. Evergreen Shrubs and Hedges
- Boxwood: A classic option for structured hedges or sculptural designs around patios and pathways.
- Azaleas: Known for their vibrant blooms, they thrive in the Southern climate and add bursts of color.
3. Flowering Plants
- Knock Out Roses: Hardy and disease-resistant, these roses offer stunning blooms from spring to fall.
- Coneflowers (Echinacea): Native to the South, they provide long-lasting flowers that attract pollinators.
4. Trees for Shade and Ornamentation
- Crepe Myrtle: With stunning summer blooms and peeling bark for winter interest, this tree is a Southern favorite.
- Magnolia: Iconic in the South, its large flowers and glossy leaves make it perfect for luxury landscapes.
5. Tropical Plants for Poolside Vibes
- Banana Plants: Large, dramatic leaves give a resort-like feel and thrive in the Southern heat.
- Hibiscus: Vibrant flowers make them ideal for adding a tropical touch to pool areas.
Tips for Planting Success
- Soil Preparation: Arkansas soil benefits from organic amendments for better drainage and nutrient retention.
- Drought-Tolerant Varieties: Many Southern plants handle hot, dry summers well, reducing watering needs.
- Seasonal Color: Use a mix of evergreens, perennials, and seasonal blooms for year-round appeal.
Designing Luxury Gardens Around Pools and Hot Tubs
Creating an outdoor oasis involves blending lush greenery with functional hardscaping. Here are ideas to inspire your luxury landscaping:
1. Poolside Planting Zones
- Low-Maintenance Beds: Use native plants and mulch to reduce upkeep around pools.
- Tropical Retreats: Cluster palms, ferns, and flowering plants near seating areas for a vibrant escape.
- Fragrant Gardens: Plant lavender, gardenias, or jasmine to infuse the air with relaxing scents.
2. Hot Tub Privacy
- Natural Screens: Bamboo, tall grasses, or hedges create privacy while adding texture.
- Vertical Gardens: Living walls near hot tubs offer greenery without taking up floor space.
- Pergola Drapery: Install retractable curtains or vines to create intimate, shaded areas.
3. Pathways and Accents
- Stone Walkways: Flagstone or travertine paths guide guests to pools and spas with elegance.
- Decorative Pots: Oversized containers with seasonal flowers or small palms add visual interest to patios.
- Border Lighting: Ground-level lights along paths enhance safety and ambiance.
Average Cost for Landscaping with Plants
- Basic Planting (Shrubs, Flowers, Grasses): $3,000–$10,000 depending on size and scale.
- Custom Gardens with Trees and Features: $15,000–$50,000+ including irrigation, lighting, and hardscaping.
In the Hot Springs area and looking for a trusted local landscaping company? Many of our properties feature landscaping installations by Its His Turf.
Combining Functionality with Style
In 2025, luxury landscaping isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about creating a space that reflects your lifestyle. Whether you’re lounging poolside, soaking in a hot tub, or admiring a garden designed for the Southern climate, thoughtful landscaping enhances the entire experience.
Key Takeaways:
- Incorporate multi-functional outdoor spaces to maximize usability and visual appeal.
- Use resilient, native plants that thrive in Arkansas’ climate for a lush, low-maintenance landscape.
- Invest in sustainable and automated pool and hot tub features for convenience and eco-friendliness.
With the right design, your outdoor spaces can be as luxurious and inviting as your home’s interior. Ready to elevate and list your property but don’t know where to start? Reach out to Overnight Digs about our property management services. Our well-connected design team knows the local experts who can help get your property guest-ready before taking those first reservations.