Whether you’re longing for serene morning swims, playful afternoons with family, or a stunning focal point that just asks for a twilight party, shape is everything.
Dare to imagine yourself floating under the stars in a pool tailored perfectly to you.
Classic Rectangular Pools
If there’s one pool shape that will never go out of style, it’s the classic rectangular pool. These beauties embody symmetry and timeless grace, making them an ideal canvas for a variety of design ideas. What I love most about the rectangular style is how it offers such an open invitation to enjoy both relaxation and exercise—no matter your age or stage of life.
It’s amazing how a rectangular pool adapts to nearly any outdoor setting, from sleek, modern homes to charming, vintage cottages.
Rectangular pools are especially suited for yards where you want strong, clean lines and an air of order; even a modest yard can be elevated with crisp pool coping and subtle lighting along the edge. Want to maximize fun for the family? Think about adding a shallow swim-out for little ones or incorporating an automatic pool cover for safety and efficiency.
I once worked with a young family who wanted a space for both swimming laps and splashing around with their children. By elongating the pool just a bit and extending the shallow end, we created a safe swim lane for the kids and a proper area for parents to swim laps. Their space became a gathering spot for summer evenings—proving that practicality and classic style go hand in hand.
Freeform Pools
For anyone seeking a more organic, inviting escape, freeform pools are designed to blend right into the landscape. With gentle curves and unexpected angles, these pools look as if they were carved naturally into your yard. Imagine accenting the edges with smooth boulders or lush ferns for that *just-discovered lagoon* feel.
Let your pool shape whisper relaxation every time you step outside.
Lap Pools: Slim Elegance, Serious Fitness, Surprising Versatility
For those whose idea of a perfect morning starts with a stretch and a strong swim, the lap pool is the ultimate companion. With its long, narrow silhouette, a lap pool is purpose-built for exercise, but I’ve found it holds plenty of surprises for creative design lovers, too.
Why settle for a standard pool when you can turn even the slimmest side yard into a sleek fitness retreat?
Lap pools are a custom fit for tight or unusual spaces, offering the benefits of aerobic exercise right at home. Whether your property is wide, narrow, or somewhere in between, the adaptable nature of a lap pool can be a game-changer—think of them as a ribbon of water inviting movement and reflection.
One of the most memorable projects I’ve managed was for an athletic couple with a narrow, tree-lined yard. They craved morning laps but also wanted a calming view from their patio. We incorporated a modest waterfall and a sun shelf, making their pool both a workout space and the spark for countless evening conversations.
If you want to get the *most* from your available space—and encourage consistent movement—a lap pool can transform overlooked corners into welcoming sanctuaries for both mind and body.
Pools with Personality: Elevate Your Outdoor Experience
There’s something about a multi-level pool that instantly creates visual intrigue in your yard. By introducing different heights and levels, you’re not just adding depth—you’re crafting zones for socializing, swimming, and unwinding. These distinct activity zones can elegantly separate a space for kids’ play from a tranquil spot meant purely for soaking in the scenery.
When I helped the Henderson family transform their outdoor area, we dedicated the upper level for relaxing loungers and the lower level for energetic water games. It’s a clever way to maximize every square foot, especially if your yard isn’t expansive. Think: a table for poolside snacks on one level, a shallow splash zone on another, with smooth transitions connecting them all.
This layered approach truly transforms ordinary into extraordinary.
A little creativity goes a long way—why settle for just one level when you can have it all?
Silent Water, Calm Mind
Sometimes, the most beautiful thing you can add to a garden is a mirror to the sky.
Choosing a reflective pool is about slowing down and savoring quiet moments. These shallow pools are designed for stillness, not laps, giving your landscape a peaceful heartbeat. Have you ever noticed how the world feels softer beside water that barely ripples?
Why Kidney-Shaped Pools Can Work Wonders in Smaller Spaces
The kidney-shape pool is my go-to for clients who want to make a big impression, even in a petite backyard. Its gentle curves create a sense of movement and open up possibilities for creative landscaping. When I worked with the Martins, we nestled their pool into a lush corner, softening the edges with ornamental grasses.
Here’s why a kidney-shaped pool can be a smart solution:
- The organic lines can help your pool blend in with plantings, making the space appear more expansive.
- It’s easy to tuck a seating nook or stone bench into the curve, maximizing every inch.
Sometimes, what you leave out is just as important as what you put in.
Baja Shelves—Why Not Bring the Resort to Your Backyard?
There’s something magical about incorporating a Baja shelf into your pool design—suddenly, you’re not just swimming; you’re *lounging* in the lap of luxury. Imagine water gently lapping at your ankles while you stretch out with a good book or chat with friends. That’s shallow lounging at its finest—and it instantly elevates any backyard pool into a private oasis.
But Baja shelves are more than just a pretty place to sunbathe. They create a *welcoming area* for play, relaxation, or even a quick dip without total submersion. I’ve seen children giggle over poolside snacks while parents soak in the sun—talk about a win-win for everyone! Picture easy access for little ones, a cool spot for your furry friend, or a chilled-out area to sip iced tea between dips. Isn’t it time your backyard had a touch of resort rejuvenation?
I once worked with a client who swore her peaceful mornings began right on her Baja shelf—feet trailing in the water, coffee mug in hand, serenaded by birdsong. The shelf became the heart of her outdoor routine, a place to greet each day with calm and gratitude.
Geometric Pools: Artful Edges, Modern Vibes
Bold lines and crisp shapes turn geometric pools into the visual centerpiece of any contemporary yard. Have you ever caught yourself daydreaming about sleek symmetry and clean design? A geometric pool never blends into the background—it commands attention.
Modern appeal comes standard when you choose this style. Minimalist or playful, geometric pools make a statement the moment you step outside.
L-Shaped Pools: Functionality Meets Visual Interest for Modern Homes
Looking for *versatility* in your pool layout? L-shaped pools can be the answer. These pools don’t just break the mold—they give you the freedom to design separate zones for different activities. Ever wondered how you could maximize every square foot of your backyard and keep everyone happy? Here’s why L-shapes fit the bill:
- Perfect for dividing spaces—swimming on one side, lounging or play on the other
- Ideal for compact yards that need to make the most of available space
- Adds a unique shape that flows naturally into patio or landscaping features
I once designed an L-shaped pool for a family who needed *family-friendly fun* without sacrificing style. The kids splashed in the shallow leg while adults gathered near the deeper section—everyone had their space, and the transition between “zones” was seamless.
10. Circular Pools
If you’re looking to make your backyard truly the center of attention, a circular pool is a charming way to do just that. The round shape feels unexpectedly cozy and encourages people to gather—there’s just something naturally inviting about it.
Gatherings somehow feel a little more magical around a circle of water.
Here are a few reasons I often encourage clients to consider a circular pool for their outdoor space:
- Effortless conversation: The shape keeps everyone facing each other, perfect for lively chats or laughter-filled evenings.
- Visual harmony: A circular design softens and complements just about any landscape, making it feel at home in both ultra-modern and lush, leafy gardens.
- Ease of play: Kids (and let’s be honest—adults, too) love swimming in circles, which means endless fun for all ages!
I once worked with a family who wanted to encourage their children to spend more time outside. Installing a circular pool right at the heart of their patio made it everyone’s favorite spot—especially when the sun started setting and the water reflected the sky’s pastel colors.
Have you ever noticed how round shapes instantly relax a space? If you want a pool that feels both beautiful and welcoming, this might be your perfect fit. Consider placing it where guests can see it as soon as they step into the garden, then surround it with potted herbs or clusters of lanterns to make it even more inviting.
11. Infinity Edge Pools
There’s something undeniably captivating about a infinity edge pool. That seamless blend between pool and sky sets such a dramatic mood—like your garden is expanding into forever.
Can you picture yourself floating quietly, horizon melting away in front of you?
If you want your landscape to feel luxurious and just a little bit surreal, this is the show-stopping choice. Infinity edges work best where you can capture a view—be it cityscape, treetops, or just wide-open sky.
12. Naturally Shaped Pools
There’s a quiet magic to a naturally shaped pool. These freeform designs meander and curve, mimicking the gentle lines of a hidden woodland pond or a peaceful mountain lake.
Imagine stepping into water that feels like a secret oasis—no harsh angles, just smooth transitions and soft edges. I find that these pools truly shine when surrounded by ornamental grasses, river rocks, or driftwood accents.
It’s all about blurring the line between “built” and “grown.”
A client once told me she wanted a pool that would feel “as if nature put it there herself.” We designed a naturally shaped pool that curved around an old willow tree, tucking native ferns and mossy stones right up to the water’s edge. If you crave a landscape that whispers tranquility, this approach helps your outdoor space look—and feel—like it’s always belonged.
Figure-8 Pools: Double the Fun, Double the Flair!
Why choose between style and versatility when you can have both? The figure-8 pool is more than just a playful design—it’s a clever way to create distinct zones right in your own backyard.
If you’re someone who loves a dash of whimsy but still wants practicality, this pool shape is a real gem. Picture using one rounded end for energetic games or laps while the other becomes a serene, sun-dappled spot to lounge with a good book or cool drink. The gentle curves naturally guide the flow of movement, making it easy for kids and adults to enjoy separate activities without feeling cramped.
I once worked with a wonderful family whose backyard came alive after we installed their figure-8 pool. The kids claimed one loop for splashy adventures, while the parents relaxed in the quiet side—everyone ended the day with happy smiles and sun-kissed cheeks.
Sometimes, a little shape can make all the difference.
Plunge Pools: Tiny Space, Big Impact?
Small space? No problem.
A plunge pool is proof that compact can still mean big impact. When I installed one for a client last summer, it transformed their petite yard—a refreshing dip was always just steps away. If you crave cool relief but your yard is cozy, this is your shortcut to a private oasis.
Every backyard deserves a touch of vacation energy. If you love to entertain, a swim-up bar instantly transforms your pool into the ultimate gathering spot. I once helped a couple host a memorable themed cocktail night right in their backyard, and their guests raved about the immersive, resort-like vibe.
The secret? Make it personal and playful. Try adding mini tiki torches for ambiance or colorful umbrellas for shade. Here are a few ways to make your own swim-up bar unforgettable:
- Offer a signature drink in fun glasses—think fruity mocktails or sparkling lemonades
- Set up cushioned barstools right in the water for relaxed chats
- Incorporate mood lighting for evening sparkle and extra magic
Hospitality is about creating moments guests remember long after the water has settled.
16. Lagoon Pools: A Natural Sanctuary in Your Own Yard
Imagine dipping your toes into the soft, meandering waters of a lagoon pool, right in your own backyard. There’s something truly magical about the way organic curves and natural stone can evoke a sense of peace. I’ve always believed that a lagoon pool is more than just a swimming spot—it’s a little slice of serenity hidden in plain sight.
This is how you bring a vacation vibe home, no airfare required.
When I worked with the Harris family last spring, they wanted their pool to feel like an escape from daily life—a private retreat wrapped in lush greenery and gentle rock features. By weaving in winding edges, a trickling waterfall, and clusters of native plants, we created an environment that felt both wild and welcoming. If you’re searching for a design that soothes the senses and invites quiet moments, a lagoon pool may be your answer.
Ask yourself: What would it feel like to wander outside and find a tranquil lagoon waiting for you? Add hidden pathways, soft lighting, and maybe even a small boulder for sitting—your oasis awaits. Let your imagination lead the way.
17. Indoor Pools
Why only swim in summer? An indoor pool means the water’s always warm and the weather never interferes. Whether you crave morning laps or a midnight float, these pools offer *inviting* possibilities for comfort and fitness. Bring in skylights, tile mosaics, or soft wall colors for a space that feels truly your own.
Swim whenever you like.
Why Oval Pools Win Hearts
With their gentle curves and long, open swim lane, oval pools strike a perfect balance between classic charm and modern function. There’s something undeniably timeless and inviting about this design, and I often suggest it to clients who want easy maintenance with plenty of style. Oval pools work well in both spacious and compact yards, adapting beautifully to a variety of landscapes.
- Smooth, continuous edges make cleaning and circulation easier
- Encourages both relaxation and lap swimming
- Looks gorgeous with decks, lawns, or pavers along the perimeter
Picture yourself sunbathing along the side as a gentle curve embraces you, or hosting an afternoon with friends where everyone finds their favorite spot. If you’re drawn to pools that echo the best of both worlds, the oval might be your perfect match.
Roman and Grecian Pools
To instantly infuse your backyard with classical elegance, look no further than Roman and Grecian pools. Their sweeping curves, stylized ends, and balanced lines bring a timeless quality that whispers of luxury villas and ancient retreats. These shapes blend beautifully with gardens that already have a stately or formal charm, but they can also create striking contrast in a contemporary landscape.
The magic lies in the details: imagine sculpted steps, decorative coping, and water gently reflecting the columns of your patio—each element turning your pool into a refined gathering spot.
It’s like stepping into history every time you take a dip.
I once helped a charming couple transform their ultra-modern backyard by installing a Grecian pool edged in limestone. The difference was immediate—suddenly, their outdoor space invited endless evenings of laughter, candlelight, and a little splash of romance.
Wouldn’t you love your swims to feel this grand and relaxing? Sometimes, the right pool shape is a gateway to a whole new lifestyle.
Ever Dreamed of Swimming Among Water Lilies?
If an eco-friendly approach and a nature-inspired escape are on your wish list, consider a natural swimming pond. These inviting pools use aquatic plants—like reeds and water lilies—to keep water clear and healthy, without chemicals or loud machinery.
Could you welcome a little wildness right outside your door?
Planting a thoughtful mix of native species will not only filter your water but attract butterflies and dragonflies too. With a natural swimming pond, nature becomes both your lifeguard and your decorator.
