Inground swimming pools can be built in just about any shape imaginable. If you’ve been contemplating putting in a pool of your very own, you may have wondered what the best shape would be for your particular backyard pool. The answer to that is easy: Build a pool that fits your family’s lifestyle, suits your taste and complements your house and the surrounding landscaping.
Some pool designs are more popular than others and there are certainly some “standard” pool shapes to choose from. Although one of these may work perfectly well for you, there are also some less conventional shapes that you probably have never seen before. By working with a knowledgeable Phoenix swimming pool contractor that has experience with custom pool design, you can open up a range of possibilities that you might never have thought of.
Rectangular – The oldest and most obvious shape for a pool, and one that dates back at least to ancient Roman times. Rectangular pools work well in rectangular yard, especially one that features a more formal, geometric landscaping layout. The corners of a rectangular pool can be rounded to soften the design a bit. Rectangular pools are a good all-purpose choice that can accommodate many different activities well, from swimming laps to a game of “Marco Polo.”
Lap Pool — If exercise is your main goal and yard space is limited, consider putting in a dedicated lap pool –a narrow rectangle just wide enough for one or two swimming lanes.
Grecian – A classic look that starts with a basic rectangular shape, but with truncated or “cut off” corners. The Grecian look can complement architecture and backyard garden areas that have a classical theme, but some pool surface area is lost by cutting off the corners.
Roman – Another classic, symmetrical design that starts with a rectangle, but adds semi-circles at the pool’s ends and/or sides. The corners are usually elegantly rounded as well. The semi-circles are good places to add steps or submerged benches.
Kidney – First designed in 1948, this is probably the most common asymmetrical pool shape. The main appeal of the kidney shape is its lack of sharp angles or corners. The round lines of the kidney shape go well with more contemporary home designs and fit well with backyards that don’t conform to the geometric regularity of a rectangle. The indented area can be a focal point for patio furniture, statuary, landscaping features, a water feature or even a spa area. In a limited space, the kidney shape also creates the sense of the pool having two parts for different activities and visually demarcates the deep and shallow ends.
L-shaped – Just what the name says, the L-shaped pool consists of two small rectangles joined at a right angle. This shape can be used to strongly demarcate the shallow and deep ends, and is a good choice when the deep end of the pool is meant for diving. The L-shape makes the best use of space on properties where the backyard has a similar shape. A variation is the Lazy L, in which the angle between the two parts of the pool is a less severe 45 degrees.
Freeform – Again, just what the name says, a freeform pool is limited only by imagination. Freeform pools lend the most natural feel to a backyard and may give the impression of a pond, a secluded cove or a desert oasis. Rock waterfalls or a grotto built into the perimeter of the pool can add to the naturalistic effect.
Hop Cassidy Pools is a leading Scottsdale swimming pool builder with experience in designing pools and spas of every shape and size for homeowners and contractors throughout the Valley. Our licensed, certified pool professionals can help you choose a pool design that will fit you and your family’s needs while adding to the beauty and value of your home. We’ll even help you visualize your new pool with our state-of-the-art 3D pool design services.
The professionals at Hop Cassidy Pools have been constructing the highest quality Arizona swimming pools for more than 25 years. The season for swimming in central Arizona is fast approaching, so call us today at 480-905-8780 to get started with a free initial consultation.
