Pool Designs Your Neighbors Will Envy
Get inspired by 10 jaw-dropping pool designs that are sure to impress your neighbors and elevate your outdoor space.
When it comes to making your backyard the envy of the neighbourhood, nothing quite compares to a beautifully designed swimming pool.
Not only does it transform your outdoor space into a personal oasis, but it also adds a touch of luxury that will have your neighbours green with envy.
Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek modern pool or a natural lagoon-like retreat, these 10 pool designs will inspire you to create a backyard paradise that’s truly one of a kind.
The Modern Minimalist Pool
Clean Lines and Sophisticated Simplicity
Minimalism is all about doing more with less, and when it comes to pool design, this approach can lead to some stunning results.
A modern minimalist pool features clean lines, geometric shapes, and a sleek, uncluttered look. It’s the kind of pool that makes a statement without shouting, perfect for homeowners who appreciate understated elegance.
I once worked with a couple who wanted a pool that reflected their modern, minimalist style.
They lived in a suburban neighbourhood where most homes had traditional kidney-shaped pools with lots of decorative elements.
By contrast, their pool was a long, rectangular design with a dark tile finish and an automatic cover that disappeared when not in use.
The simplicity of the design made their backyard look expansive, and it quickly became the focal point of their home. Their neighbours were amazed by how something so simple could be so striking.
Why It’s Enviable
A modern minimalist pool is enviable because of its sophistication and the way it enhances the overall look of your home. It’s a pool that exudes class and elegance without being ostentatious. Plus, the clean lines and lack of clutter make it easy to maintain, so you can spend more time enjoying the water and less time cleaning it.
The Infinity Edge Pool
The Illusion of Endless Water
An infinity edge pool, also known as a vanishing edge pool, is designed to create the illusion that the water extends to the horizon, with no visible boundary.
This design is particularly impactful if your property has a view, whether it’s of the surrounding landscape, a garden, or even just the sky.
Infinity edge pools are one of my favorite designs. There’s something magical about the way they blur the line between the pool and its surroundings.
Why It’s Enviable
The infinity edge pool is a showstopper. It’s the kind of pool that makes people do a double-take. The visual effect of the water flowing over the edge is both calming and awe-inspiring, making it a design that’s as much about the experience as it is about the look.
The Natural Lagoon Pool
Bringing Nature to Your Backyard
If you love the idea of blending your pool with the natural environment, a natural lagoon pool might be just what you’re looking for. These pools are designed with organic shapes, natural materials like rocks and boulders, and lush vegetation to create a tropical paradise right in your backyard.
I once helped design a natural lagoon pool for a family that wanted their backyard to feel like a vacation destination. We incorporated a waterfall, a beach entry, and plenty of tropical plants to create the effect.
The result was stunning—it felt like stepping into a hidden oasis, and the kids loved the adventure of exploring all the different nooks and crannies of the pool. The neighbors couldn’t believe such a transformation was possible in a suburban backyard.
Why It’s Enviable
A natural lagoon pool is enviable because it turns your backyard into a getaway. It’s a pool that invites you to relax, unwind, and escape from the stresses of daily life. Plus, the organic design makes it feel like a natural extension of the landscape, which is something not every pool can offer.
The Mediterranean-Inspired Pool
A Touch of the Mediterranean
For those who dream of lounging by the pool at a luxurious Mediterranean villa, this pool design brings that dream to life. Mediterranean-inspired pools often feature terracotta tiles, stone walls, and vibrant blue water, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a permanent vacation.
A couple I worked with had recently returned from a trip to Italy and wanted to recreate the charm of the Mediterranean in their own backyard. We used natural stone for the pool surround, added a pergola draped with grapevines, and chose a deep blue tile for the pool interior. Every time they stepped outside, they were reminded of their travels. Their friends would often joke that their home was the new go-to vacation spot, and it wasn’t hard to see why.
Why It’s Enviable
The Mediterranean-inspired pool is enviable because it captures the essence of a far-off destination, right in your own backyard. It’s a design that exudes warmth, charm, and a relaxed elegance that’s hard to beat.
The Compact Plunge Pool
Big Luxury in a Small Package
You don’t need a huge backyard to enjoy the luxury of a pool. A plunge pool is a small, deep pool designed for relaxation and cooling off. It’s perfect for homeowners with limited space who still want to enjoy the benefits of a pool.
Plunge pools are a great option for suburban homeowners who might not have the space for a full-sized pool. I’ve seen plunge pools turn small patios into luxurious retreats. One couple I worked with had a narrow backyard but wanted a space where they could unwind after work. We installed a plunge pool with a built-in bench and a small waterfall feature. It became their favorite spot to relax with a glass of wine in the evenings. Their neighbors were amazed at how much luxury they packed into such a small space.
Why It’s Enviable
The compact plunge pool is enviable because it proves that size isn’t everything. It’s a luxurious addition that doesn’t require a lot of space, making it accessible to more homeowners. Plus, its depth and design can make it feel more intimate and inviting.
The Family-Friendly Pool
Fun for Everyone
If you have kids, you’ll want a pool that caters to the whole family. A family-friendly pool design includes features like shallow areas for young children, built-in play elements, and safety features to give parents peace of mind.
I worked with a family who wanted a pool that was safe and fun for their kids but also stylish enough for the adults to enjoy. We designed a pool with a large shallow area, a built-in slide, and a water fountain. For the parents, we added a swim-up bar and a shaded seating area. The result was a pool that could transition seamlessly from a kids’ play zone to an adult retreat. Their backyard quickly became the go-to spot for neighborhood playdates and summer barbecues.
Why It’s Enviable
A family-friendly pool is enviable because it’s practical without sacrificing style. It’s a pool that can grow with your family, providing years of enjoyment for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s the kind of feature that makes your home the neighborhood gathering spot, which is always a plus.
The Lap Pool
Fitness and Fun in One
A lap pool is a long, narrow pool designed for swimming laps, but it’s also great for relaxation and play. This design is perfect for homeowners who want to incorporate fitness into their daily routine without sacrificing the enjoyment of having a pool.
I once worked with a couple who were both avid swimmers. They wanted a pool that would allow them to swim laps every morning but also serve as a place to relax and entertain. We designed a lap pool with a sleek, modern look and added a relaxation area at one end with built-in seating and jets. It became their daily sanctuary, where they could exercise and unwind. Their neighbors were impressed by how the pool managed to be both functional and stylish.
Why It’s Enviable
The lap pool is enviable because it’s the perfect blend of form and function. It’s a pool that supports a healthy lifestyle while still offering the luxury and relaxation you want in a backyard pool. Plus, its sleek design can add a touch of modern elegance to your home.
The Rooftop Pool
Taking Luxury to New Heights
A rooftop pool is exactly what it sounds like—a pool located on the roof of your home. This design offers panoramic views, a private retreat, and a wow factor that’s hard to match. It’s a rare feature in suburban areas, making it all the more enviable.
Rooftop pools are the ultimate luxury statement. I’ve had the pleasure of working on a few rooftop pool projects, and each one was a showstopper. One client’s rooftop pool overlooked a stunning skyline, and they had a glass wall installed to take full advantage of the view. It quickly became their favorite spot to watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand. The exclusivity and uniqueness of a rooftop pool make it a feature that truly sets your home apart.
Why It’s Enviable
The rooftop pool is enviable because of its exclusivity and the stunning views it offers. It’s a feature that not many homes have, and it adds a level of luxury that’s hard to beat. Plus, the privacy it provides makes it the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
The Freeform Pool
A Natural, Organic Design
A freeform pool is designed with an irregular shape that mimics natural bodies of water. This design is perfect for homeowners who want a relaxed, informal look that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
I worked with a couple who wanted their backyard to feel like a natural extension of the forest behind their home. We designed a freeform pool with a shape that followed the contours of the land, surrounded by rocks, plants, and ambient lighting. The pool looked like it had always been there, nestled among the trees. It became a peaceful retreat where they could connect with nature without leaving their property. Their neighbors loved the way the pool blended with the environment, creating a natural, serene space.
Why It’s Enviable
The freeform pool is enviable because it offers a unique, personalized design that feels like a natural part of the landscape. It’s a pool that stands out without being flashy, creating a backyard oasis that’s both beautiful and tranquil.
Conclusion
Your backyard is an extension of your home, and the right pool design can transform it into a luxurious retreat that will make your neighbors jealous. Whether you’re drawn to the clean lines of a modern minimalist pool, the natural beauty of a lagoon-style pool, or the exclusivity of a rooftop pool, there’s a design out there that’s perfect for you.
From my experience as a pool construction expert, I can tell you that investing in a well-designed pool isn’t just about adding value to your home—it’s about creating a space where you can relax, entertain, and make memories with your family. So, take the plunge, choose a design that speaks to you, and get ready to enjoy your new backyard paradise. Your neighbors will be green with envy!
F.A.Q.
Clear all your doubts about 10 Pool Designs That Will Make Your Neighbors Jealous!
A modern minimalist pool features clean lines, geometric shapes, and a sleek, uncluttered design. It’s popular because it exudes sophistication and elegance while being easy to maintain. The simplicity of the design often makes the surrounding space appear larger and more cohesive.
An infinity edge pool, also known as a vanishing edge pool, is designed so that water flows over one or more edges, creating the visual effect that the water extends infinitely into the horizon. This design is especially impactful when paired with scenic views, enhancing the pool’s aesthetic appeal.
A family-friendly pool includes features like shallow areas for young children, built-in play elements such as slides and fountains, and safety features like non-slip surfaces and fencing. These features make the pool enjoyable and safe for both children and adults, creating a versatile space for family fun.
A lap pool is designed for swimming laps, making it an excellent addition for homeowners who want to incorporate regular exercise into their routine. It allows for cardiovascular workouts, muscle strengthening, and overall fitness in the convenience of your own backyard, while also serving as a space for relaxation.
A rooftop pool offers several unique advantages, including panoramic views, enhanced privacy, and the exclusivity of having a pool in a location that’s rare for suburban homes. It transforms an underutilized roof space into a luxurious retreat, often with breathtaking views and a sense of elevation above the neighborhood.
To design a standout pool, consider unique elements such as an infinity edge, natural features like waterfalls and rocks, or incorporating luxurious details like a swim-up bar or integrated lighting. It’s also important to ensure that the design complements your home’s architecture and the surrounding environment.