A pool isn’t just a hole filled with water. It’s an extension of your home, your style, and your lifestyle. It’s where summer happens. Where kids cannonball. Where you sip a cocktail at sunset, contemplating if you really need to check your email (spoiler: you don’t).Best pool designs loading.
And yet, not all pools are created equal. Some are sleek, geometric marvels that look like they belong in a James Bond movie. Others mimic natural lagoons, complete with waterfalls and lush greenery. Some are tiny, made just for cooling off. Others stretch for 50 feet, built for serious swimmers.
The best pool design? The one that works for your space, your needs, and your aesthetic. Whether you’re going for luxury, function, or something in between, the right pool can completely transform your outdoor space.
Let’s dive in.
Infinity Pools – The Ultimate Luxury Statement
Infinity pool is one of the best pool designs. Infinity pools don’t just hold water—they hold power. They scream luxury, sophistication, and “I could live in a resort if I wanted to.” The vanishing edge creates a seamless blend with the horizon, making it look like your pool stretches into eternity.
Why choose it?
- Ideal for homes with breathtaking views (ocean, mountains, cityscapes—take your pick).
- Creates a high-end, modern aesthetic that looks expensive—because, let’s be real, it is.
- Works best when paired with sleek architecture and minimalist landscaping.
Pro Tip: Add LED lighting beneath the infinity edge for a dramatic nighttime effect. It’s like swimming in a piece of modern art.
Natural Pools – Eco-Friendly and Chemical-Free
Picture this: a crystal-clear swimming hole, surrounded by lush greenery, with zero chlorine stinging your eyes. That’s a natural pool and one of the best pool designs in 2025. It uses plants and biofilters to keep the water clean—so it’s like swimming in a self-sustaining ecosystem.
Why choose it?
- No chemicals. No harsh smells. No weird skin irritation.
- Low maintenance (yes, really—nature does the work for you).
- Looks like a hidden paradise, especially when designed with rocks, waterfalls, and aquatic plants.
Pro Tip: Want a more polished look? Go for a hybrid natural pool—with sleek edges but the same bio-filtration system. Best of both worlds.
Geometric Pools – Sleek, Modern, and Minimalist
Forget curves. This is for those who like clean lines, sharp angles, and symmetry so perfect it would make an architect cry tears of joy. Geometric pools fit perfectly with contemporary homes and structured landscapes.
Why choose it?
- Perfect for modern architecture—think glass walls, straight edges, and chic patio furniture.
- Easier to cover, heat, and maintain (those angles serve a purpose).
- Can be elevated with sheer waterfalls, LED lights, and floating lounge chairs.
Pro Tip: Use dark-colored pool finishes to give the water a sophisticated, mirror-like effect. Bonus: it absorbs heat faster, so your pool stays warmer naturally.
Freeform Pools – Relaxed, Resort-Style Vibes
If geometric pools are all about precision, freeform pools are about letting loose. These pools mimic natural water bodies, with flowing, organic shapes and a “tropical escape” feel.
Why choose it?
- Looks effortless, organic, and inviting—like you just stumbled upon a hidden lagoon.
- Great for creating resort-style backyards, complete with palm trees and rock waterfalls.
- More customizable—curve it around landscaping, patios, or even existing trees.
Pro Tip: Add boulder accents and a waterfall to complete the natural aesthetic. Extra points if you throw in a swim-up bar.
Plunge Pools – Small but Luxurious
Not everyone has acres of space. And that’s okay—because plunge pools prove that size doesn’t matter. These compact pools are built for cooling off, soaking, and relaxing, rather than doing Olympic laps.
Why choose it?
- Perfect for small backyards, patios, and courtyards.
- Can be heated for year-round use (basically a giant, luxurious hot tub).
- Adds instant sophistication—a well-designed plunge pool = a five-star spa at home.
Pro Tip: Want it to look even more high-end? Use natural stone tiles and built-in seating for that boutique-hotel feel.
Lap Pools – Fitness Meets Functionality
If you’re serious about swimming, a lap pool is a no-brainer. These long, narrow pools are designed for fitness, efficiency, and a no-fuss aesthetic.
Why choose it?
- Perfect for daily exercise without leaving home.
- Takes up less space than a traditional pool while maximizing usability.
- Pairs beautifully with minimalist landscaping—think grass borders and modern pavers.
Pro Tip: Install a resistance current system for an endless swimming experience—no need to turn around, just keep swimming (Dory was onto something).
Rooftop Pools – Urban Luxury with a View
Not enough backyard space? No problem. Rooftop pools are the ultimate urban flex. They’re designed for city dwellers, penthouses, and modern homes where space is a premium.
Why choose it?
- Turns any rooftop into a high-end retreat.
- Maximizes space—why waste a roof when you could be swimming on it?
- Perfect for city views, sunset swims, and impressing your guests.
Pro Tip: Glass walls make rooftop pools feel even more open and expansive. Just don’t look down if you’re afraid of heights.
Beach Entry Pools – A Resort in Your Backyard
You know how amazing it feels to wade into the ocean instead of climbing into a pool? That’s the vibe of a beach-entry pool. Also known as a zero-entry pool, it gradually slopes from shallow to deep—just like a real beach.
Why choose it?
- Perfect for families, elderly swimmers, and anyone who loves that natural beach feel.
- Blends beautifully with tropical landscaping, palm trees, and cabanas.
- Makes for a stunning visual effect, especially with sand-colored finishes.
Pro Tip: Create a sun shelf (aka Baja shelf)—a shallow lounging area where you can place chairs directly in the water. Ultimate relaxation.
Courtyard Pools – Small Spaces, Big Impact
Sometimes, you don’t need a big backyard—you just need a clever design. Courtyard pools fit into smaller outdoor areas, transforming unused spaces into elegant retreats.
Why choose it?
- Great for townhouses, modern homes, and inner courtyards.
- Creates a private oasis with surrounding walls, greenery, and lounge seating.
- Pairs well with fire pits, fountains, and vertical gardens.
Pro Tip: Use reflective water surfaces to create the illusion of a larger space.
Smart Pools – The Future of Swimming
Welcome to the Jetsons era of pool design. Smart pools come with automated technology that lets you control temperature, lighting, jets, and filtration—all from your phone.
Why choose it?
- Low maintenance—the pool basically takes care of itself.
- Energy-efficient, saving money in the long run.
- Lets you customize everything—mood lighting, heating schedules, even water flow.
Pro Tip: Sync LED lighting with music for an immersive experience. Yes, your pool can now throw a light show.
Your perfect pool is out there—it’s just a matter of matching it to your lifestyle. Whether it’s a sleek infinity pool, a compact plunge pool, or a natural swimming pond, the right design will transform your outdoor space into something extraordinary. Now, all that’s left is to pick your favorite and make it a reality.
Conclusion: Best Pool Designs
So now you know—best pools designs aren’t just about swimming. They’re about atmosphere, function, and how you want to enjoy your outdoor space. Want a sleek infinity pool with an edge that disappears into the horizon? Done. Prefer a natural swimming pond that blends seamlessly into your landscaping? Go for it. Have a tiny backyard but still dream of water? A plunge pool will do the trick.
But here’s the thing: good design isn’t just about looks. It’s about how you use it. Do you want a pool that’s a social hub? A fitness feature? A quiet retreat? The answer shapes everything—from the size and shape to the materials and lighting.
So, what’s next? Maybe it’s sketching out ideas. Maybe it’s booking a consultation. Maybe it’s just scrolling Pinterest until something clicks. Either way, your perfect pool is closer than you think. Now, go make some waves in the best pool deisgns yet.
FAQ
What shape of pool is best?
Rectangular pools are best for swimming and space efficiency, while freeform pools offer a natural look.
What is the most cost-effective pool design?
Rectangular vinyl liner pools are the most affordable, requiring less labor and materials.
How much does a 10x20 inground pool cost?
Costs range from $20,000 to $50,000, depending on materials and features.
What are the trends for 2025 pools?
Eco-friendly designs, smart technology, natural pools, and compact plunge pools are trending.
