These Creative Swimming Pool Designs Will Make a Splash In Your Backyard (2024)

FAQs

What is a pool called that you can walk into? ›

A beach entry pool, often called a zero entry pool, gets its name from the fact that it, well, looks like a beach. As you walk into the shallow end, the water gets deeper with every step, giving you an experience similar to wading into a lake or ocean.

The basic steps for building a pool include applying for permits, choosing a pool type, picking a location, designing the pool, choosing a financing option, excavating, laying a foundation, installing the shell, adding finishing touches, scheduling an inspection, and adding water and chemicals.

A walk-in pool, also known as a beach-entry pool or zero-entry swimming pool, is a swimming pool that has a gradual slope that allows you to walk directly into the pool without steps or a ladder.

Fiberglass and vinyl-liner pools are in the more affordable range, while a custom concrete pool can cost well beyond this higher range of $60,000. Depending on the region of the country where you live, an average fiberglass pool's initial cost of installation is approximately $35,000 – $40,000.

Not only are concrete pools the most popular and highly customizable, but they have the longest lifespan compared to vinyl liner and fiberglass pools. Concrete pools do require a little more maintenance than the fiberglass and vinyl options, but these pools will last much longer with proper care.

Zero-entry pools, also known as 'beach-entry pools' or 'walk-in pools', are a style of swimming pool people characterised by their sloping entrance. Unlike traditional pools, zero-entry pools replace bulky stairs and ladders with a slope, creating a seamless transition between land and water.

A lazy river is a water ride found in water parks, hotels, resorts, and recreation centers, which usually consists of a shallow (2.5–3.5-foot (0.76–1.07 m)) pool that flows similarly to a river. There is generally a slow current, usually just enough to allow guests to gently ride along lying on rafts.

A zero-edge pool is designed so that the water seems to sit on the same level as your pool deck and adds an elegant touch to modern pool designs. Also referred to as a perimeter overflow pool, the water will silently flow over the edge through a small gap into a catch basin for circulation.

Choosing lighter pool colors can create the illusion of more space and make your pool more of a focal point within your backyard. Pearlescent white shades or lighter grays and blues can really make your pool pop and stand out more!

How do I make my pool look expensive? ›

Some of the more popular choices include tiles, pavers, composite wood, brick and stamped concrete. Even ordinary pavers take on a luxurious feel when they're laid in an interesting pattern. For a modern look, opt for large tiles made from slate or some other natural stone.

Rectangular pools are undeniably the most common type of pool. Appearing in assorted styles of backyards, this pool shape maximizes the space in your backyard while allowing plenty of room for swimming laps or playing games. Even better, rectangular pools allow for rapid cleanup and easy maintenance.

Zero-entry pools, also known as 'beach-entry pools' or 'walk-in pools', are a style of swimming pool people characterised by their sloping entrance. Unlike traditional pools, zero-entry pools replace bulky stairs and ladders with a slope, creating a seamless transition between land and water.

Zero entry designs are typically more expensive than standard pool entry options such as steps or ladders.

To give a little more detail: Decks are normally made of wood and are elevated off the ground. Patios are normally paved with bricks and stones and are at ground level. “Pool deck” is a more common phrase so some people may use it even though the area around the pool is paved like a patio.

Sometimes referred to as a tanning ledge or sun shelf, a Baja shelf is a wide, top step in your pool, typically 8-16 inches deep. It's actually kind of like having a pool within the larger pool. Very popular at high-end hotels, a Baja shelf adds luxury as well as functionality to your pool.