A swimming pool isn’t just a big tub of water that you and your family soak in during the hot season. It’s an exciting addition to your outdoor area that will serve to keep you preoccupied and physically active while also boosting your home’s curb appeal.
Building a swimming pool is a huge investment. Make sure that when you pick a swimming pool design, it can cater to your wants and most importantly, to your needs. The most important choice you’ll be making in this project will be choosing your swimming pool shape.
To select the right shape, here are important tips to consider:
Evaluate your preferences
Picking a swimming pool shouldn’t be a solo decision, unless you live alone and no family members will react to your decision. Else, you will need to evaluate each of your family members’ preferences and goals for the pool as well as for the entire outdoor area. This way, you can ensure everybody’s wants and needs are met (hopefully) – making your swimming pool a sound investment.
Selecting Pool Shapes
- Free-form – This follows no rules and boundaries, and is made according to the designer’s creativity. Since this pool can follow whatever path necessary for the space available, it’s a great option for most properties.
- Geometric – This is popular for its sharp look and clean lines. If you want something modern or contemporary, you can choose either a triangle, square, or other finely-crafted shapes.
- Kidney-shaped – This is quite similar to a round pool but with an oval shape, or a round pool but with an indentation on one side. This has a soft, natural look which is ideal for adding a spa or hot tub within the indentation area.
- L-shaped – This is a twist to the classic rectangular design and is ideal for different water depths. The “L” extension is usually allocated for diving while the rectangular side which is shallower is meant for younger swimmers.
- Rectangular – This is a traditional choice for homeowners who like swimming laps or doing cardio exercises.
- Round – Soft and simple, this is perfect for a family that enjoys water sports as this shape easily allows for setting up a court, nets, and slides.
With today’s technology, it’s possible to create other pool shapes other than the six ones mentioned above. All you need is a good swimming pool designer and sufficient space to achieve what you desire.
Discuss what you want with your builder
There are instances where the pool shape you’ve selected may not be ideal for the kind of features that you seek. Or, you may be able to incorporate all the things you want but at a higher cost and with bigger backyard space. In this case, you need to discuss your needs and wants with your pool builder to make a more informed and practical decision.
The following questions will serve as your guide during your discussion with your pool builder:
- How much is your budget for your pool?
- How big do you want your pool to be?
- Where will you place your swimming pool?
- How much outdoor space will you allocate for it?
- Who will be using the pool often?
- Does any family member have mobility challenges?
- What types of activities will the pool users engage in?
- Do you have a particular pool for inspiration?
- Have you envisioned a hardscape?
- Do you plan to preserve any existing landscape or add landscape features?
- How deep do you want your swimming pool to be?
- What structural, functional, and decorative features do you want?
By answering the questions above, your builder can get a better grasp of what you want for your pool. Your builder will also review your preferences against local building codes and regulations to ensure that you won’t be violating them.
Hire a reliable swimming pool designer and builder
Before you even settle on a swimming pool shape that will best suit your needs and budget, the first step is to hire a trustworthy pool designer and builder. No matter how hard you think of the right swimming pool design, it won’t become a reality without the right people for the job.
A pool building professional has the knowledge and skills to construct the swimming pool of your dreams even if you have challenges with your budget, space, and desired specialty features.
AUTHOR BIO
Rachel Hennessey manages the Pools and Landscaping Division of Hennessey LLC. She also works on Tender and Pre-Qualification and brings in new business to the company’s Construction, Interiors and Civils Division.
