How to Choose the Right Pool Design for Your Space: Expert Tips

Understanding Your Space: Key Considerations Before Choosing a Pool Design

Before you can settle on a pool design, it’s crucial to evaluate your available space. Your pool needs to not only fit physically in the yard but also harmonize with the rest of your landscape. Proper planning ensures you make the most of your area while keeping practical aspects in mind.

Available Space

The size of your backyard will naturally influence the type of pool design you choose. A small yard may require a compact pool that maximizes space, while a larger lot offers greater flexibility for more elaborate designs. Here are a few points to consider:

• Small Spaces: Opt for smaller, more compact pool designs such as a plunge pool or a lap pool. These designs maximize the available area without overwhelming the space.
• Large Spaces: A larger backyard allows for expansive pool designs, including freeform pools, geometric shapes, or even an infinity pool that creates a dramatic effect.

Yard Shape

The shape of your yard plays a big role in the type of pool design that will fit best. If your yard has irregular angles or tight corners, it’s important to choose a pool shape that fits within these boundaries. Common yard shapes include:

• Rectangular Yards: These work well with geometric pool designs and linear shapes like classic rectangular or square pools.
• Irregular or Curved Yards: Freeform pools that follow natural curves or organic lines complement these spaces.

By analyzing your available space and shape, you can make an informed decision about which pool design best suits your yard’s layout.

Saturn Pool Builders emphasize the importance of truly understanding your space before selecting a pool design. 'It's essential to assess not just the size of your backyard but also the surrounding landscape, sun exposure, and existing structures. For example, if you have limited space, opting for a sleek, rectangular pool can maximize the area, while incorporating landscaping elements like decking or terracing can enhance the overall aesthetic. By considering all these factors, you can ensure your pool design complements the space and creates a harmonious outdoor environment.' This thoughtful approach to design helps ensure that your pool becomes a natural extension of your yard.

Identifying Your Pool’s Primary Function: Leisure, Exercise, or Entertainment?

Understanding the primary function of your pool will guide you toward the right design. Some people want a pool primarily for relaxation and socializing, while others may be more interested in using it for exercise or family activities. The pool’s intended use is a major factor in determining its size, shape, and features.

Pools for Relaxation and Socializing

If your main goal is to create a relaxing environment for family gatherings, a design with seating areas, water features, or a shallow section for lounging might be ideal. Consider the following features:

• Shallow Zones: Shallow pools are great for lounging, reading, or enjoying a cocktail while relaxing by the water.
• Built-in Seating Areas: Incorporating benches or ledges into your pool’s design creates a perfect spot for socializing or simply enjoying the ambiance.
• Water Features: Waterfalls, fountains, or sheer descents add both a visual and auditory element, enhancing the peaceful atmosphere.

Pools for Exercise

For those looking to swim for fitness, the design should prioritize functionality. Lap pools, which are long and narrow, are designed specifically for swimming laps, while resistance pools include built-in jets for water resistance training. Here’s what to consider:

• Lap Pools: These pools are perfect for fitness enthusiasts who want to swim laps.
• Endless Pools: Smaller pools that use resistance jets allow for continuous swimming in a compact space.
• Depth and Size: Larger pools with deeper sections offer more space for various types of exercise, like water aerobics or underwater workouts.

Pools for Family Fun and Entertainment

If the pool is for family fun and entertainment, you might want a design that’s versatile enough to accommodate various activities. Consider a pool with a shallow end for kids to play, deeper sections for diving, and space for pool toys and games. Features to consider:

• Shallow Play Areas: A shallow section allows for safe, fun play for children.
• Diving Areas: A deeper section provides room for diving and other water activities.
• Water Slides or Features: Add excitement and a sense of adventure to your pool design with water slides, fountains, or jets.

By understanding the primary purpose of your pool, you can tailor the design to meet your lifestyle and preferences.

Design Styles: Choosing a Look That Complements Your Home

When choosing a pool design, it’s important to consider your home’s architectural style. A well-integrated pool design can enhance your home’s aesthetics and create a cohesive look between the indoors and outdoors.

Modern and Sleek Designs

For homes with a contemporary or minimalist design, sleek, modern pools often work best. These pools feature clean lines, geometric shapes, and simple, neutral finishes. Characteristics include:

• Rectangular or Square Shapes: These geometric designs create a structured, modern feel.
• Infinity Pools: With water spilling over the edges, these pools offer a seamless connection between water and sky, perfect for homes with a stunning view.
• Minimalist Features: Simple, understated pool finishes with neutral colors complement modern homes.

Natural and Organic Designs

For homes with a more rustic or nature-inspired design, freeform pools are often the best choice. These pools mimic the natural curves of lakes, rivers, and lagoons, creating a tranquil environment. Features include:

• Curved Shapes: Freeform pools feature organic curves that complement natural landscaping.
• Natural Stone and Materials: Use of natural materials, such as stone and pebble finishes, blends the pool with the surrounding environment.
• Waterfalls and Rock Features: Adding a waterfall or rocks around the pool helps enhance the natural feel.

Mediterranean or Tropical Designs

If your home has Mediterranean or tropical influences, a pool design with tiles, water features, and lush landscaping may be ideal. Features of these designs include:

• Mosaic Tile Designs: Intricate tile patterns in rich, vibrant colors.
• Lush Landscaping: Palm trees, ferns, and other tropical plants surrounding the pool.
• Spanish-Inspired Features: Incorporating elements like fountains, terracotta tiles, and wrought iron adds a Mediterranean flair.

By aligning your pool’s design with the style of your home, you can create a harmonious outdoor space that feels like an extension of your living area.

When selecting a pool design, it's essential to think about how it will blend with the overall style of your home. Saturn Pools suggests, 'If you have a modern, minimalist home, a sleek, infinity-edge pool with clean lines can create a seamless look. On the other hand, if your home has a more traditional style, a lagoon-style pool with natural stone accents may be a better fit. The key is to create harmony between your pool and your home’s aesthetic to ensure they both enhance each other.' This approach can make your pool feel like a natural extension of your living space.

Your Next Steps: Exploring Pool Types

Choosing the right pool design is just the beginning of your journey. Once you've determined the layout and features, the next step is to decide on the type of pool that best fits your needs. Will you opt for an inground pool, or does an above-ground pool better suit your space and budget?

Moving On to Pool Types: Inground vs. Above Ground

Each type of pool comes with its unique benefits, from installation costs to aesthetic appeal and long-term value. The following article in our series will explore the differences between inground and above-ground pools, helping you make the best decision for your specific situation.

Which type of pool aligns with your design goals? Should you go for the classic elegance of an inground pool, or would an above-ground pool offer more flexibility and affordability?

Now you're ready for the next part in our 'build your own pool' series: Inground vs. Above Ground Pools: Which Is Right for You?