Written by Van Kirk Pools –
When transforming your backyard space into an outdoor oasis, choosing an inground pool shape and design is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Aside from picking out an enchanting landscaping plan, the shape of your pool will have the biggest impact on the overall look and feel of your backyard space. A swimming pool offers hours of relaxation, exercise and fun. Beyond the recreational and aesthetic benefits, this backyard upgrade may also boost property value.
With so many different shapes and designs to choose from, finding the perfect pool for your home can be a bit tricky. With these important considerations, you can easily determine what pool shape to choose for your backyard.
Understanding Pool Shapes and Styles
When it comes to choosing a swimming pool, one of the most important decisions is the shape and style. The right pool shape and style can enhance the beauty of your backyard, provide a unique and functional space for relaxation and recreation, and even increase the value of your property. In this section, we’ll explore the different types of pool shapes and styles, their characteristics, and the benefits they offer.
Swimming pools come in a variety of shapes and styles, each with its own unique appeal and functionality. From the classic elegance of rectangular pools to the organic feel of freeform designs, the shape you choose can set the tone for your entire backyard oasis. Rectangular pools are perfect for those who love clean lines and a modern aesthetic, while freeform pools offer a more natural, lagoon-like appearance that blends seamlessly with lush, wild landscaping.
Geometric pools, with their sharp angles and structured designs, are ideal for contemporary spaces and can be customized to fit any backyard layout. On the other hand, kidney-shaped pools provide a playful and versatile option that maximizes space and offers a unique look. Whether you prefer the timeless appeal of a classic rectangle or the sophisticated curves of an oval or circular pool, there is a shape and style to suit every taste and backyard design.
Choosing the right pool shape and style is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about functionality. Consider how you plan to use your pool. If you enjoy swimming laps, a rectangular pool might be the best choice. If you prefer a more relaxed, resort-like experience, a freeform or kidney-shaped pool could be perfect. Ultimately, the only limits are your imagination and the space available in your backyard.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Pool Shape
There are several factors that will determine which pool design and swimming pool shape is best for you and your home. Before you start shopping around and comparing prices of popular pool shapes, here are the most important considerations to weigh when choosing a design:
Backyard Size
The size of your backyard is a key factor in choosing the right pool shape. It’s important to review local residential pool regulations and obtain any necessary permits before building. Once you understand the rules, assess your available space. Smaller pools suit compact homes, while larger pools fit expansive yards. Consider leaving room for outdoor amenities like furniture or fire pits to create a balanced backyard retreat. The pool size should complement your yard—too large can overwhelm a small space, while too small may feel out of place in a larger yard.
Backyard Shape
Rectangle-shaped pools suit square or rectangular yards, while freeform or kidney shapes fit irregular spaces. However, strategic landscaping can create the illusion of a square yard, allowing flexibility in pool shape selection. If mixing shapes, consider working with a residential landscaping service to design a cohesive backyard layout.
Aesthetic Preference
Of course, it’s crucial that you settle on a shape and design that complements your aesthetic preferences. You want to match the swimming pool style to your landscaping theme. Whether you’re creating a woodland wonderland, a tropical retreat, a peaceful prairie or any other style, your pool must fit into the scene.
Functionality
Are you hoping to get your weekly cardio swimming laps in your new pool? Or would you prefer to spend your time relaxing? You might hope to host parties with your friends. Whichever resonates with you, different designs offer different functionality.
A small kidney-shaped pool might not be the best option if you plan to use the pool for exercise — but a classy rectangle shape is suitable for this use. A luxury L-shape might be the best choice for a modern luxury backyard and hosting lavish backyard parties. Be sure to choose a shape that offers the functionality you’re looking for.
Pool Sizes and Dimensions
Pool size and dimensions are essential for ensuring a comfortable fit, meeting your budget, and providing space for swimming and relaxation. Options range from compact plunge pools to large lap pools, with the best choice depending on your backyard size, budget, and intended use.
For smaller yards, a 16 x 32-foot pool offers a balance of functionality and space efficiency, ideal for cooling off without overwhelming the area. Larger yards can accommodate pools like a 20 x 40-foot design, providing ample room for swimming, entertaining, and a resort-like feel.
Consider not only the pool size but also the surrounding space for furniture, landscaping, and amenities. Pool depth is also important—shallower pools suit families and casual swimmers, while deeper pools are better for diving and vigorous swimming. Thoughtful planning ensures your pool enhances both your lifestyle and outdoor space.
Popular Swimming Pool Shapes
There are several pool shapes worth considering:
Classic Rectangles
This timeless shape makes a statement with classic elegance and crisp, clean lines. Rectangle pools work well with most landscaping styles, whether contemporary and creative or modern and formal. Rectangle shapes are also best for those who want to swim laps and get exercise or host backyard celebrations with friends and family. Rectangle shapes are available in just about every size as well, so you can choose a design that fits seamlessly into your backyard, regardless of how large or small your outdoor space is.
Naturally Beautiful Freeform Shapes
Freeform pool shapes are naturally beautiful and offer more of an organic feel. These creative shapes mimic irregular shapes that are more common in nature. If you have chosen a prairie or woodland landscaping plan incorporating more freely growing plants and flowers, this is the best shape for your home. This shape can help you create a backyard oasis similar to a lagoon or peaceful natural pond. With flowing lines, nooks and curves, freeform designs will naturally complement irregular backyard shapes and wild landscaping designs.
Roman and Geometric Designs
Roman and geometric pool shapes are stunning, unique designs that work well in larger, lavish backyards. This structural shape complements tropical landscaping plans and can maximize space, while the creative shapes can help to zone off the backyard. Moreover, incorporating a hot tub space is easy with geometric shapes. If you’re creating a contemporary oasis, this is the best shape for you.
Playful Kidney Shapes
Kidney-shaped pools are undeniably playful. This shape is functional and appealing. They can also maximize smaller backyards without cramping up the space. If you enjoy hosting celebrations and entertaining guests or lounging around in your backyard, a kidney shape might be the best option. These versatile shapes are a popular choice for families as well because the unique shape and shallow design are unarguably the most suitable option for children.
Sophisticated Oval and Circular Shapes
Circular and oval shapes offer a sophisticated spin on classic rectangular shapes. This shape is typically best for modern, simplistic landscaping designs and larger backyards. Even though you can opt for an oval shape with a smaller yard, this particular shape works best when there is ample space.
Luxury L-Shapes
L-shapes are incredibly luxurious. The unique and practical design is perfect for swimming laps and getting exercise, while this shape is also perfect for hosting outdoor celebrations or simply lounging around. This shape is also best for larger backyards with acres to spare. The distinct design works well with modern minimalistic landscaping themes.
Pool Materials and Construction
The materials and construction methods used for a swimming pool affect its durability, maintenance, and performance. Common options include fiberglass, concrete, and vinyl liners, each with unique benefits.
Fiberglass pools are durable, low-maintenance, and quick to install since they come pre-fabricated. They resist algae growth, reducing upkeep. Concrete pools offer the most customization, allowing any shape or size, and are highly durable but require more maintenance, including periodic resurfacing. Vinyl liner pools are the most affordable and versatile, with replaceable liners available in various colors and patterns.
When choosing materials, consider your budget, maintenance preferences, and desired aesthetic. The right choice ensures a durable, attractive pool that enhances your backyard for years to come.
Find Your Perfect Pool With Van Kirk & Sons Pools and Spas
Choosing a pool shape is a big decision. But when weighing in all the key considerations, you can choose a shape that complements your home and lifestyle preferences.
Whether you have a small backyard and a prairie landscaping style or a large yard with a clean, modern design, we have the perfect pool shape for you. Schedule a consultation with Van Kirk & Sons Pools and Spas to find the right pool shape and create the backyard oasis of your dreams.
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