There’s something about a pool that feels like it belongs in the landscape rather than simply sitting in the middle of the backyard. That’s the idea behind a lagoon pool. 

Known for their organic shapes, tropical landscaping, natural materials, and resort-inspired features, lagoon pools can transform a South Florida backyard into a space that feels more like a private escape. And while the traditional lagoon look may bring waterfalls and rock features to mind, today’s designs can range from lush and tropical to much more refined and modern. 

If you’re considering a lagoon-style pool, here are some of the design elements that can help bring the look together. 

Start With a More Natural Pool Shape 

One of the easiest ways to recognize a lagoon pool is by its shape. 

Rather than the straight edges and sharp corners often seen in contemporary pools, lagoon-style swimming pools typically use curves and freeform edges to create a softer, more natural appearance. The goal is to make the pool feel integrated into the surrounding landscape. 

That doesn’t mean every lagoon pool needs to be dramatically curved. A more subtle freeform shape can still create that relaxed look while working with the size and layout of your property. 

For South Florida homes, where outdoor living is often an extension of the house itself, the pool should also work with patios, outdoor kitchens, seating areas, and the flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. 

Use Landscaping to Create the Oasis 

The pool itself is only part of a backyard lagoon. Landscaping is what really helps create the sense of privacy and escape. 

Palms, tropical greenery, layered plants, and other lush landscaping can soften the edges of the pool and make the backyard feel more secluded. Instead of having every part of the pool visible at once, landscaping can also create different views as you move throughout the space. 

This is where planning the entire backyard together becomes important. The pool, landscaping, hardscaping, and architecture should complement each other rather than feel like separate projects. 

Add a Water Feature 

Waterfalls are a classic feature of lagoon pools, but there are plenty of ways to interpret them. 

Natural rock waterfalls can lean into the traditional tropical look, while more streamlined spillways and water walls can give the same concept a more contemporary feel. Bubblers, fountains, and spa spillovers can also introduce movement and sound without becoming the main focus of the design. 

Beyond appearance, the sound of moving water can add to the atmosphere of the backyard and make the space feel even more removed from everything around it. 

Create Areas for Lounging In and Around the Water 

A tropical backyard should be somewhere you actually want to spend the day. 

Adding a sun shelf or Baja shelf creates a shallow area for loungers, while an integrated spa can make the pool useful well beyond a summer afternoon. Built-in seating, nearby fire features, shaded areas, and outdoor living spaces can make the entire backyard more functional. 

With a lagoon-style pool, these areas can often be incorporated into the curves of the design so they feel like a natural part of the pool rather than an addition. 

Choose Finishes That Complement the Setting 

The finishes you choose can completely change the direction of a lagoon design. 

Blue and turquoise interiors can create brighter, more tropical-looking water, while deeper blues, greens, and darker finishes can give the pool a more natural appearance. Stone, textured tile, and natural-looking decking can further connect the pool to its surroundings. 

For homeowners who want a cleaner interpretation of the style, lagoon pools can also be paired with neutral decking, sophisticated waterline tile, and more restrained landscaping. You can capture the feeling of a tropical retreat without making the backyard feel overly themed. 

Don’t Forget About Lighting 

The backyard shouldn’t lose its impact once the sun goes down. 

Thoughtful lighting around the pool, landscaping, pathways, and water features can completely change how the space feels at night. Underwater lighting can highlight the pool’s shape, while landscape lighting can bring attention to palms and other greenery surrounding it. 

In South Florida especially, where the backyard can be enjoyed throughout much of the year, designing for both daytime and nighttime use makes the space that much more valuable. 

Make the Lagoon Style Your Own 

A lagoon pool doesn’t have to follow one specific formula. Some homeowners want the full tropical experience with lush greenery, waterfalls, and natural stone. Others may prefer a more modern pool that simply borrows the organic shapes and relaxed atmosphere of a traditional lagoon. 

The best design is one that works with your home’s architecture, property, and the way you plan to use the space. 

Create Your Own Backyard Escape With Van Kirk & Sons 

At Van Kirk & Sons Pools & Spas, we design pools around more than just the water. From the shape and finishes to spas, water features, decking, and surrounding outdoor spaces, every detail plays a role in creating the finished environment. 

Whether you envision a lush backyard lagoon or a more modern take on tropical South Florida living, our team can help bring the entire space together.