7 Stunning Swimming Pool Trends For 2024

By Amanda Mushro
Contributor

Reviewed By

Lowe Saddler Editor
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If you’re getting ready to take the plunge and build a pool this year, it can be overwhelming to choose between so many types, styles and layouts. Most types of pools are completely customizable, allowing you to make a splash with your design choices. From the colors to the lighting and the materials, you can design a pool that matches your style and instantly calms you every time you look at your water view.

Here’s everything you need to know about the top pool trends to make your outdoor oasis feel sleek and modern this summer.

1. Pool Finishes That Change the Color of Water

There are a lot of natural factors that can change the appearance and color of the water in your pool. The water will look different first thing in the morning compared to later in the afternoon because of how the sun hits the surface. Additionally, landscaping around the pool can cast shadows on different parts of the water to change the overall color, and even the deep end is likely to have a hue that varies from the shallow side.

One way to change the water’s appearance is to choose a pool finish with a unique hue. Traditionally pool interiors and liners were either white or blue. However, you no longer need to limit yourself to just those two colors to achieve your perfect pool.

  • If you want water that looks bright blue and bold, choose a light grey liner.
  • For blue water that is translucent or crystalline, go with an interior tile or liner that’s pale blue or shades of white.
  • Accent the natural design of your pool with green, tan or brown colors that will create soft green tones in the water
  • For a deeper blue, choose a dark blue liner or tile.
  • Dreaming of a turquoise pool? Beige or cream interiors reflect the light to create turquoise water.
  • For an unexpected choice that has gorgeous results, go with black. If your pool has a modern or contemporary design, a black interior will create a mirror effect on your pool and makes the water look reflective.

2. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Designs

When it comes to the construction, the chemicals and the maintenance, designing the pool of your dreams doesn’t have to be a drain on the planet. The latest pool trends make it easy and affordable to design a water feature using sustainable practices and materials to minimize environmental impact.

During the planning and construction of the pool, choose materials that are eco-friendly, recycled or locally sourced. From the materials in the pool to the fencing and furniture that surround it, there are plenty of eco-friendly options to choose from.

Look for energy-efficient selections when choosing lighting inside and outside of the pool. Solar-powered and rechargeable fixtures are great to start. When it comes to cleaning and filtering the water, opt for systems that require less energy to power.

You can also harness the sun when you’re heating the pool. Skip the heating systems that raise your electricity bill and instead use solar covers and solar panels to keep the water at the perfect temperature.

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3. Tanning Ledges

chaise lounge chairs in tanning ledge of swimming pool

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Don’t let the name fool you, the shallow entry design of a tanning ledge—also known as a sun shelf—offers plenty of entertainment and options for adults and kids. So while you can use this feature as a spot to relax and work on your tan, the benefits of a tanning ledge go beyond just catching a few rays.

For families with young children, tanning ledges offer babies and toddlers a place to splash and play without having to be fully submerged in the pool. It also gives little ones an easier entryway since pool steps can be difficult for young swimmers.

Tanning ledges can also be large enough for several pool-friendly lounge chairs to be partially submerged in the water, and umbrella stands can be incorporated into the design of the tanning ledges. Just imagine relaxing on a shaded lounge chair in your pool. It’s like having a resort in your backyard.

4. Multiple Lighting Features

Just because the sun goes down doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. The latest trends in pool lighting offer better visibility inside and outside of the water in addition to making the space more inviting so it’s perfect for those late-night splash parties.

  • Underwater LED lights give off a soft glow that allows swimmers to see all angles and sides of the pool while they swim.
  • Floating lights add fun and function to the pool at night. From glowing orbs to flatdisks, many of these soft lights can be controlled by an app on your phone. Depending on your mood, you can change up the color and brightness as well.
  • In-ground lighting creates dramatic contrasts with shadows. They can be installed around the pool’s perimeter or along a fence or landscaping line around the pool.
  • Solar lighting is an eco-friendly option that can accent special elements of your pool like water fountains or unique tile work.
  • Traditional perimeter and path lighting now comes in a variety of sizes and styles. No matter your budget or design, there are lighting options that will work for you.

5. Simplicity in Design

modern house with blue pool

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The clean lines and simple design trends that we’re seeing pop up again and again inside homes are are being replicated for pools. Instead of oversize pools with rounded and freeform edges as well as massive rock and stone features, more homeowners are opting for pools that are streamlined and square. They no longer take over the entire outdoor space.

Not only are these minimalist pools easier to maintain, but they also create a calming aesthetic that can complement any type of backyard landscaping.

6. Non-Standard Depths

When it comes to depth, usually one side of the pool is shallow and the other is much deeper. However, new designs feature unique depths that work according to the homeowner’s specific lifestyle.

All sides of the water can be the same depth with the deepest point at the center of the pool. However, if your family consists of serious swimmers, it’s possible to create a pool with a uniform water height throughout. For another design idea, extend the tanning ledge to every side of the pool for more space to lounge in shallow water.

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7. Fire and Water Features

swimming pool with tanning ledge and fire pots

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While outdoor fire features, like fireplaces and different varieties of fire pits, tend to be located on patios and decks, the latest pool design trends put fire and water together. Both elements add dramathat can elevate the look and feel of your pool. Whether you are looking for some added ambiance, warmth and lighting for nighttime swims, or a place to roast a few s’mores, there are plenty of ways to incorporate both fire and water features into your overall design.

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