Designing the Ultimate Pool Room: Style, Substance & Personality

Whether you're creating a dedicated games retreat or adding flair to a multi-purpose space, your ultimate pool room design should feel inviting, functional, and unmistakably yours. From materials and textures to themes and storage, here’s what to consider when crafting a space that hits the mark.

Pool room with a traditional feel

Materials That Matter in your Ultimate Pool Room Design:

Start with the bones. Solid timber flooring or engineered wood adds warmth and durability, while wall panelling—be it VJ, shiplap, or reclaimed timber—can instantly elevate the mood. A standout pool room design often includes custom-built cabinetry for cue storage, floating shelves for trophies or memorabilia, and a recessed dartboard nook for added flair. If acoustics matter, soft furnishings or acoustic panels can help absorb sound without compromising style.

Colour & Texture: Walls That Speak

Wall colour sets the tone. Deep charcoal, navy, or forest green create a moody, club-like atmosphere, while lighter neutrals like warm greys or sandy beige keep things fresh and coastal. For added texture, think grasscloth wallpaper, exposed brick, or even a mural that nods to your favourite sport or city. A thoughtful pool room design balances colour and texture to create a cohesive, stylish environment.

A dramatic backdrop to complement the pool table

Themes & Styles: From Rustic to Refined

Your pool room can lean into any aesthetic:

• Modern: Sleek lines, monochrome palette, LED strip lighting, and minimalist furniture.

• Rustic: Reclaimed wood, leather stools, vintage signage, and warm lighting.

• Industrial: Concrete floors, metal fixtures, exposed beams, and Edison bulbs.

• Contemporary: Soft curves, layered textures, and a mix of materials like timber and stone.

• Traditional: Rich timber panelling, classic pendant lights, and heritage-style furniture.

• Unexpected: Coastal chic with rattan and whitewashed finishes, or retro arcade-inspired with pops of colour and neon.

  
  

Choose a theme that complements your home’s overall vibe—or go bold and make it a standalone statement.

Contemporary pool room with built in bar

Function Meets Fun: Layout & Presentation

Think about flow. The pool table should be the hero, with ample clearance around all sides. Position dartboards away from walkways, and include seating zones for spectators or casual hangs. A bar cart, mini fridge, or built-in drinks station adds hospitality, while layered lighting—pendants over the table, wall sconces, and ambient LEDs—helps set the mood. Smart pool room design ensures every element has purpose and presence.

Fun pool, bar & memorabilia room - image sourced from Pinterest Pin on Haus - Wohnzimmer

Storage & Smart Additions

Cue racks can be wall-mounted or freestanding, but custom cabinetry keeps things tidy and tailored. Consider drawers for chalk, gloves, and accessories, and hooks for hanging jackets or bags. If space allows, add a small bench seat with hidden storage underneath. Bonus points for integrating tech—Bluetooth speakers, smart lighting, or even a scoreboard screen.

images sourced via Pinterest - (8) Pinterest

A pool room isn’t just about the game—it’s about the experience. Whether you're aiming for laid-back luxury or high-energy fun, the right choices in your ultimate pool room design will make it a space you’ll love to show off and unwind in.

Want help styling your own pool room or sourcing custom pieces? Let’s chat—I’d love to bring your vision to life.