Jane Seymour’s 2002 Lagoon-Style Pool Transforms Her Backyard Into a Tropical Escape

Recreate her verdant paradise with soft, organic curves, natural materials, and lush planting

Jane Seymour
(Image credit: Photo by Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images)

For those lucky enough to have a pool (or space for one) in the back yard, you're going to want to take style tips from the fabulous Jane Seymour, whose tropical lagoon-style pool area is one of the most beautiful and inviting we've seen.

From the planting (palm trees and colorful flowers dotted amongst the stone boulders), to the butter yellow pergola-style pool house and the vibrant turquoise furniture, the actress absolutely nailed the chic resort look, as evidenced by these 2002 photos of her Malibu home.

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Jane Seymour's Malibu swimming pool

(Image credit: Photo by Paul Harris/Getty Images)

Shop Jane Seymour's Tropical Pool-Side Look

Nothing can beat a lagoon-style pool area for that resort feel, and Jane Seymour really captured that so perfectly at her Malibu home, which has quite a traditional facade in contrast.

Peter Cook, Owner of Stone Ridge Outdoor Experiences explains: 'As a landscape designer, I’m always drawn to outdoor spaces that make you feel like you’ve stepped away from home and into somewhere completely different. That’s really what a tropical, lagoon-style design is all about.'

Jane Seymour's pool is so inviting with its beautifully organic shape, different levels – created with bathing platforms, curved steps, and an adjoining spa pool, as well as the gorgeous turquoise water that says 'come on in.'

When it comes to designing a pool area, 'It starts with the layout,' says Peter. 'You want everything to feel natural and relaxed, with soft curves instead of hard, geometric lines. The materials play a big role too – weathered, natural-looking stone and finishes that feel like they belong in a tropical setting help set the tone right away.'

Jane Seymour's Malibu pool

(Image credit: Photo by Paul Harris/Getty Images)

And, you can also look to tropical garden ideas to take the look further, but it will, of course depend on which zone you live in but, Peter suggests that if you are in an area where true tropical plants won't make it through the winter you can still 'get that lush, tropical look by mixing hardy native plants with some well-placed artificial elements.'

Jane Seymour's vibrant tuquoise patio furniture is another clever move for bringing that vacation vibe to her poolside. The shade feels both bright and natural at once – reflecting the cool blue of the ocean and pool itself. The black metal frames feel chic and help to keep the look styled and elegant looking.

As for garden accessories, Peter suggests 'tiki torches, firepits, and an outdoor kitchen or even a tiki bar can go a long way in bringing the whole vibe together.' And, if you are adding a pool house or pergola like Jane Seymour's Peter suggests opting for natural materials for a tropical feel. 'They take a bit more upkeep, but they just look better. Add in some climbing plants, and it becomes the perfect shaded spot to hang out and relax.'


With considered natural materials, organic design, and tropical-leaning planting, resort-style pool patio ideas are easier to achieve than you might think.


Katrina Harper-Lewis
Head of Living

Katrina is Head of Living at Homes & Gardens, covering hosting and entertaining, seasonal styling ideas, sleep and wellbeing, along with a highly experienced team of writers and reviewers. With more than 15 years' experience in lifestyle content, Katrina was previously an editor at luxury lifestyle platform, Muddy Stilettos, has been a features writer at Sainsbury's magazine and has also written for a wealth of other food and lifestyle titles including Ideal Home, Waitrose Food, John Lewis' Edition and The Home Page. Katrina is passionate about heritage style and lives in a 100-year old cottage in rural Hertfordshire, where she enjoys finding creative ways to live and host stylishly.