Pool Design Ideas

Concrete pools are one of the most popular choices for custom pool designs and are ideal for homeowners wanting flexibility and long-term durability.

Why Choose a Concrete Pool?

Concrete pools are fully customisable, allowing you to create almost any shape, size, or depth. This makes them well suited to unique blocks, sloping sites, or designs that require custom features.

Design Benefits of Concrete Pools

• Unlimited design flexibility
• Ideal for sloping or irregular blocks
• Can incorporate complex features
• Long lifespan
• Suits both modern and traditional homes

Concrete pools are a strong choice for homeowners seeking a bespoke or high-end design that’s tailored to their property.

Plunge Pools

Plunge pools are a popular option for smaller backyards or urban spaces where space is limited.

Why Choose a Plunge Pool?

Plunge pools focus on cooling, relaxation, and visual appeal rather than lap swimming.

Design Benefits of Plunge Pools

• Compact footprint
• Lower water and heating costs
• Ideal for courtyards or narrow blocks
• Works well with modern architecture

Despite their smaller size, plunge pools can still feature premium finishes, lighting, and water features.



Lap Pools

Lap pools are long, narrow pools designed primarily for exercise but can also double as a striking design feature.

Why Choose a Lap Pool?

Lap pools are ideal for fitness-focused homeowners or properties with limited width.

Design Benefits of Lap Pools

• Clean, modern lines
• Efficient use of space
• Works well along boundary lines
• Suits contemporary homes

Lap pools often integrate seamlessly with decking, paving, and outdoor living areas.

Infinity and Edge Pools

Infinity and edge pools create the illusion that water extends beyond the pool’s boundary.

Why Choose an Infinity Pool?

These pools are designed to make the most of views and elevate the overall visual impact of a property.

Design Benefits of Infinity Pools

• Luxury, resort-style appearance
• Enhances views
• Creates a seamless visual connection

Infinity pools require careful engineering and are typically part of premium pool builds.

Pool Shape and Layout Ideas

Pool shape plays a major role in how the pool interacts with your home and outdoor space.

Rectangular Pools

• Timeless and versatile
• Easy to cover and heat
• Suits modern and classic homes

Freeform Pools

• Organic, flowing shapes
• Complements tropical landscaping
• Creates a relaxed, resort feel

Geometric Pools

• Strong architectural presence
• Sharp lines and angles
• Ideal for contemporary designs

The best shape is one that complements your home while meeting your functional needs.

Pool Tile Design Ideas

Tiles have a significant impact on the look and feel of your pool.

Internal Pool Tiles

Internal tiles influence water colour, depth perception, and overall aesthetic.

Popular Internal Tile Options

• Glass mosaic tiles
• Porcelain tiles
• Natural stone tiles

Darker tiles create a deeper, more dramatic water colour, while lighter tones give a bright, inviting appearance.

Waterline Tiles

Waterline tiles sit at the top edge of the pool and protect surfaces from staining.

Waterline Tile Design Ideas

• Feature mosaic bands
• Subtle neutral tones
• Contrasting colours for definition

Waterline tiles add both visual interest and practicality.

Coping and Pool Edges

Coping forms the edge around the pool and ties the pool into its surroundings.

Popular Coping Materials

Concrete Coping

• Clean and contemporary
• Can be poured or precast
• Versatile and cost-effective

Natural Stone Coping

• Premium, timeless look
• Remains cooler underfoot
• Ideal for luxury pools

Porcelain Coping

• Consistent finish and colour
• Slip-resistant options available
• Low maintenance

Coping should be comfortable, safe, and visually cohesive with surrounding paving.

Pool Surrounds and Paving

The pool surround is just as important as the pool itself.

Popular Pool Surround Options

• Exposed aggregate concrete
• Natural stone paving
• Porcelain pavers
• Timber decking

The right materials improve safety, comfort, and overall design flow.

Water Features to Enhance Pool Design

Water features add movement, sound, and a sense of luxury.

Popular Pool Water Features

Waterfalls

Create a natural or resort-style feel.

Sheer Descent Features

Provide clean, modern water lines.

Bubblers

Ideal for shallow areas and sun shelves.

Deck Jets

Add fun and visual interest, especially for families.

Water features can be subtle accents or bold focal points depending on your design goals.

Pool Lighting Design Ideas

Lighting transforms how your pool looks and functions at night.

Types of Pool Lighting

LED Pool Lights

• Energy efficient
• Long lifespan
• Available in white or colour

Feature Lighting

• Highlights steps and ledges
• Improves safety
• Creates ambience

Well-designed lighting allows your pool to be enjoyed day and night.

Pool Steps, Ledges and Seating

Functional features can also be strong design elements.

Built-In Pool Features

Entry Steps

Wide, gradual steps provide safe and welcoming access.

Sun Shelves

Shallow ledges perfect for relaxing or supervising children.

Bench Seating

Ideal for socialising and resting.

These features improve comfort and usability while enhancing design.

Pool Design for Families

Family pools should balance enjoyment with safety.

Family-Friendly Design Considerations

• Gradual depth transitions
• Non-slip finishes
• Clear sightlines
• Safe entry points

Thoughtful planning creates a pool that works for all ages.

Pool Design for Entertaining

For those who love to entertain, the pool should connect seamlessly with outdoor living areas.

Entertaining Pool Design Ideas

• Integrated seating
• Poolside lounging areas
• Connection to alfresco spaces
• Feature lighting and water elements

These elements help turn your pool into a social centrepiece.

Matching Pool Design to Your Home

A pool should feel like a natural extension of your home.

Design Alignment Tips

• Match colours and materials
• Reflect architectural style
• Coordinate with landscaping

Cohesive design creates a polished, high-end finish.

Planning Your Pool Design

Before finalising your pool design, consider:

Key Planning Factors

• Budget
• Block size and layout
• Intended use
• Maintenance requirements
• Council regulations

Good planning early on helps avoid compromises later.

Conclusion

There’s no single perfect pool design — the best pool is one that suits your home, lifestyle, and long-term needs. From concrete pool styles to tiles, coping, lighting, and water features, every choice plays a role in the final outcome.

By working with experienced pool builders and carefully considering your design options, you can create a pool that’s visually stunning, practical, and enjoyable for years to come.