40 Best Swimming Pool Designs to Elevate Your Backyard
Popular looks to revamp your outdoor space, regardless of size.
There's no denying the fun that comes along with diving into a pool. Think crystal clear water, warm weather and the company of family and friends — right in the comfort of your home. In light of the season, we're sharing beautiful swimming pool designs that can elevate your backyard or airy indoor space.
Whether you want a minimalist look or a luxurious, statement-making setup, these popular swimming pool ideas are perfect for your home. We've included pictures of elaborate styles that showcase the views of a mountainous terrain or picture-perfect palm trees. Plus, designs that showcase how you can surround your pool area with a variety of decking materials (such as pavers, bricks or stone), and create a unique escape surrounded by lush greenery.
So if you're making plans to upgrade your home, consider these swimming pool looks for a backyard refresh. Your kids and guests will thank you.
A Cozy Indoor Oasis
All-white, including round pendant lights, steal the show in this indoor pool layout by Leanne Ford Interiors.
Modern Farmhouse
This sleek swimming pool by Maestri Studio adds contrast to this home's brick exterior.
R Shaped
With its unique R-shape design, this pool encompasses the beauty of nature around it.
Vacation Nook
Looking for a design that embodies vacation vibes? Take a cue from this look by Lindye Galloway Studio + Shop and design an indoor swimming pool off of your backyard. There's nothing like basking in the beauty of your garden's florals while taking a dip.
Spa-like Spring
This look features a relaxing spa-like experience, from the brick and stone elements to the surrounding trees and sky views.
The Feeling of Luxe
Joshua Smith Inc. designed this outdoor area with a luxurious aesthetic. The pool's shape and white design blends in with the refined and midcentury modern look.
Water Park Fun
Installing a slide and brick waterfall only added to the natural elements surrounding this structure.
T-Shape
A classic T-shape is great for those with an artsy mind. The vertical stem in this design by David Turner Studio is smaller and lesser in width.
Multiple Pools
This freeform look gives the impression of multiple pools in one. It has an irregular shape that perfectly complements the surrounding trees.
Bar Area
While you'll usually find swim-up pool bars at resorts, this doesn't mean they have to be reserved for these spaces. They're perfect for entertaining guests at home, too.
River Views
Opposite this pool area by Jessica Lagrange Interiors and Grand Tradition Homes, you'll see gorgeous views of a river that only enhances the layout.
Underground Plunge Pool
This underground haven is surrounded by a pebble and stone wall. Light gleams from the stairwell above, offering a beautiful reflection of the cave-like setting.
A Taste of the Tropics
This eccentric pool shape and design is marked by Mediterranean influences. Bright colors and a brick outline complete the look.
The Classic L Shape
An L-shaped appearance divides the shallow and deep ends, while helping to fill those empty spaces around the corner of the house.
Wooden Enclosure
This arched wooden enclosure provides the perfect cocoon, helping to evoke a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Crystal Blue Lagoon
Round pools are simple and free-standing, making them great additions to any small backyard.
A Rocky Landscape
The rectangular layout at the Red Mountain Spa in St. George, Utah, is ideal for swimming laps, while offering majestic views of the Rocky Mountains and rugged terrain.
Black Bottom Pool
Black bottom pools are trendy and brilliant for retaining heat. They're also incredibly dramatic and make a moody option, whether indoors or in the backyard.
European Influence
Classic white pillars surround this pool, while the glass structure above paves the way for light to seep through and reflect on its surface.
Floating Balcony Pool
Swim on the edge with a floating balcony pool that overlooks an alluring sky and landscape views.
Mariah Thomas (she/her) is an assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home and lifestyle content. Mariah has more than four years of editorial experience, having written for TLC, Apartment Therapy, Women's Health and Avocado Magazine. She received her master's degree in journalism at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism and published her first book, Heart and Soul: Poems of Thoughts and Emotions, in 2019. She's also the founder of RTF Community, a platform for creatives of color to connect, learn and showcase their work.
