Designing a Pool That Makes a Splash

A pool is the ultimate amenity—instantly turning the backyard into your own personal retreat. And depending on the design, it can elevate your space to an inspired oasis.

"A pool enhances the aesthetic appeal and visual grandeur," said Mark Bittoni, founding principal of Bittoni Architects in Los Angeles. "Pools also provide a focal point for outdoor living and entertaining, extending the usable space of the property."

For ideas on pool designs that sync with your style, follow these ideas from the design pros.

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Shape the Design

"The shape of the pool needs to respond to the architecture of the home and its surroundings.

Geometric shapes, such as rectangular or square pools, often exude a sleek and modern aesthetic. Freeform or curvilinear pools can add a more organic and artistic touch. What's more, the reflectivity of the water can bring the sky into focus, frame a view or create a feeling of infinite space.

"When it comes to landscaping, complement the architectural style of the home and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal. It should provide privacy, shade and a sense of tranquility. Choosing low-maintenance plants, incorporating water features and ensuring proper drainage are also important considerations.

"Lighting is a crucial aspect of pool design in a luxury home. Thoughtful placement of lighting fixtures can create a captivating ambiance, highlight architectural features and ensure safety around the pool area."

—Mark Bittoni, founding principal, Bittoni Architects in Los Angeles

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Strike a Balance

"When choosing materials, consider their ability to be waterproof and non-porous. Prioritize materials that offer slip-resistant surfaces, particularly in areas prone to high foot traffic or water splashing, to enhance overall safety and comfort.

"Striking a balance between shade and sunlight is crucial for ensuring comfort and enjoyment, allowing for both relaxation and protection from excessive exposure. The pool's orientation in relation to the sun can ensure efficient heating and energy efficiency.

"Utilize lighting to accentuate water features, such as fountains, waterfalls or underwater elements, as well as the surrounding landscaping, to enhance the visual appeal and create a captivating focal point."

—Adriana Hoyos, founder and chief designer of Miami-based Adriana Hoyos Design Studio

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Create Continuity

"A pool can be its own piece of art. We always tell homeowners they don't need a traditional deep end unless they have young kids; adults typically use pools to relax.

"Think about what blends with the surrounding environment and doesn't distract the eye from the pool itself. You don't want an abrupt change in material unless you are stepping down. If you are using stone, consider other moments of exterior stone at your home. Using the same material that's by the door, for instance, is always great for flow and continuity."Consider how the pool material interacts with the materials and colors on the inside of the house. Eased edges or tumbled edges should be considered for kids and give a more relaxed feeling than sharp edges. Waterline tile should be in the color family of the plaster: clean and less complicated will stand the test of time."

—Kiley Jackson and Aileen Warren of Jackson Warren Interiors in Houston

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Take Views into Account

"A pool is a significant investment, so it's best to select materials that are timeless to avoid an expensive renovation in the near term. An uncomplicated, traditional shape is an excellent starting point. Additions to the basic shape, such as an in-pool sundeck should build on that initial shape. It's more elegant to have a singular grand gesture rather than several smaller details; stadium stairs that run the entire width of a pool are a great example.

"The finest pools always take advantage of the best views on the property—there's nothing like swimming with a vista. For example, at one of our recent projects, The Huron, the windows are nearly full height, which takes advantage of the stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.

"The landscaping should complement the pool, if the pool is an ornate shape, the landscaping can be minimal and elegant. If the pool is quite simple in nature, and there is ample space, then it is always nice to landscape the perimeter."

—Becca Roderick, design director of interiors at New York-based Morris Adjmi design

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Color Sets the Vibe

"While it can be beautiful to tile your entire pool with mosaics, most pools are finished in variations of plaster. It can be smooth and matte or include glass or stone aggregate for a more curated feel. The color of the pool plaster has the biggest effect on water color, which will define the overall vibe. Looking for a tropical feel? Choose a lighter plaster that results in a vibrant bright blue for the water. Looking for a lush, shaded retreat? Try a darker plaster that creates rich, deep blue water.

"It can be beautiful and functional for grass to come up to the edge of the coping for a pool that is sitting directly in the landscape. Be mindful of the placement of the pool near trees—leaves or flowers often blow into the pool, increasing the maintenance, and the trees can create desired (or undesired) shade.

"We love the pool to feel like an extension of the outdoor space of the home. Connected to a patio, near an entrance to the house, or next to an outdoor kitchen are all conducive to creating opportunities for gathering."

—Emily Kettlewell AIA, project architect, and Catherine Craig AIA, project manager, of Sanders Architecture in Austin, Texas

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