The World's Best Swimming Pool Designs

Swimming pools, since the first modern Olympic Games in Greece in 1896, have evolved from mere sports competition venues to architectural marvels that embody aesthetic appeal, leisure, and worldwide sporting standards.

The growth in interest has seen the construction of pools expanding beyond public institutions to include a myriad of innovative pool designs in both residential and commercial spaces. This surge in interest underpins the expected growth in the Global Swimming Pool Construction Design Market, indicating a widespread enthusiasm for unique and sophisticated pool designs across the globe.

This article delves into the realm of swimming pools, exploring a variety of pool designs that cater to a spectrum of preferences and functionalities. From infinity pools that offer breathtaking views, eco-friendly natural pools that blend with the landscape, to architectural gems and resort-inspired lagoon pools, it highlights how these designs not only serve as a leisure spot but also add value and character to spaces.

The guide aims to provide inspiration and insight into the global trends of swimming pool designs, marking the evolution from functional structures to artistic statements in luxury and style.

Infinity Pools with Breathtaking Views

Infinity pools, with their vanishing edges that blend seamlessly into the horizon, offer some of the most breathtaking views around the globe. These pools are not just about the swim but about the experience, merging the man-made with the natural in a harmonious display. Here are some standout examples:

• The Palm Tower, Dubai: This skyscraper boasts a wraparound infinity pool situated roughly 688 feet above ground, providing swimmers with a panoramic view of Dubai's skyline.
• Silversands Grenada: Home to the longest infinity pool in the Caribbean at 330 feet, this pool offers a sleek, modern aesthetic inspired by nature, making it a must-visit for those seeking luxury combined with natural beauty.
• Marina Bay Sands, Singapore: Perhaps one of the most iconic infinity pools, located 150 meters long atop the hotel, it offers unrivaled views of the Singapore skyline. Open to hotel guests and visitors with a day pass, the pool is surrounded by a restaurant, bar, and lounge area, perfect for enjoying a drink or meal with a view.

Other notable mentions include:

• Vero Beach, Florida: An infinity-edge pool with uninhibited views of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Goldwynn Resort and Residences, Nassau, Bahamas: Features a heated elongated eye-shaped infinity pool accompanied by luxury cabanas.
• Breathless Cancun Soul Resort and Spa, Cancun: Boasts three pools, including a Beachfront Energy pool with an Abyss swim-up bar and two rooftop infinity pools offering ocean and sunset views.
• Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como, Italy: A floating pool on Lake Como with chic custom loungers.
• Joali, Maldives: An infinity pool that blends into the surrounding lagoon for a serene retreat.
• The Dolli, Athens, Greece: Offers the illusion of floating in the Parthenon with its rooftop infinity pool.
• Alila Ubud, Bali, Indonesia: An infinity edge pool that merges flawlessly with the Ayung River valley landscape.

These pools are more than just places to swim; they are destinations offering unique experiences. Whether floating above a bustling city or blending into the serene blues of the ocean, infinity pools provide a luxurious escape, making them a key feature in the world of sophisticated pool designs.

Eco-Friendly Natural Pools

Eco-friendly natural pools are revolutionizing the way we think about swimming spaces, merging sustainability with luxury and leisure. These pools are not just a swimming area but a living ecosystem that uses natural processes to maintain clean and clear water without the need for harmful chemicals. Here's a closer look at the innovative features and benefits of eco-friendly natural pools:

Key Features and Benefits:

• Water Treatment Technologies: Utilizing high-tech, environmentally friendly water treatment methods such as salt chlorination, UV radiation, active oxygen, and ozone treatment. These systems are designed to minimize environmental impact while ensuring the pool water is clean and safe for swimming.
• Salt Chlorination: Converts dissolved salt into chlorine, eliminating the need for toxic chemicals.
• UV Radiation: Exposes water to ultraviolet light, effectively killing microorganisms.
• Active Oxygen and Ozone Treatment: Both methods significantly reduce the need for chemicals, with ozone treatment also neutralizing microorganisms efficiently.

• Design and Maintenance:
• Custom-shaped to include features like play areas, shallow sections for children, and integration with the local ecosystem, ensuring no environmental impact.
• Maintenance involves aquatic plants or biological filters, which preserve biodiversity and reduce water consumption by 35%.
• Energy-efficient designs that use the sun's energy, require less maintenance, and have a zero carbon footprint, making them cost-effective in the long run.

• Health and Environmental Benefits:
• The water in natural pools is gentle on the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes, making it safe for all swimmers, including those with atopic skin or other dermatological issues.
• These pools promote biodiversity and offer a habitat for local wildlife, contributing to the health of the surrounding environment.
• Reduced usage of heating equipment and lower energy consumption contribute to a smaller ecological footprint.

Notable Examples:

• The Acro Suites in Crete, Greece, and Alba Thermal Springs & Spa in Australia are prime examples of how luxury and eco-responsibility can coexist, showcasing clifftop and geothermal water pools that adhere to the highest environmental standards.

Natural pools represent a significant shift towards sustainable living, providing a beautiful, healthy, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional swimming pools. With their ability to blend seamlessly into any landscape and offer a myriad of benefits for both users and the environment, eco-friendly natural pools are setting a new standard in pool design across the globe.

Architectural Gem: Geometric and Freeform Pools

Exploring the realm of pool designs further, the distinction between geometric and freeform pools offers a vast array of choices for homeowners and designers alike.

Each style brings its unique appeal and functionality to the forefront, catering to different aesthetic preferences and landscape requirements.

Geometric Pools:

• Appearance: Characterized by their sharp lines and defined edges, geometric pools are the epitome of modern design. They often come in shapes like rectangles, squares, and ovals, offering a sleek and classic look.
• Customization and Features:
• Can be customized with a spa for a luxurious, cohesive look.
• Dark pool finishes and natural stone accents enhance their modern appearance.
• Ideal for adding features such as symmetrically layered entryways, tanning ledges, and vanishing edges.

• Benefits:
• Seamlessly complements contemporary and formal architecture.
• Cost-effective and suitable for swimmers of all abilities.
• Easy to incorporate into pool decks and outdoor living spaces, often accompanied by patios or pool houses.

Freeform Pools:

• Appearance: With their curvilinear form, freeform pools break away from the traditional pool shapes, offering a more organic and flexible design that adapts to the unique contours of any backyard.
• Customization and Features:
• Perfect for compact spaces, providing a lagoon-style feel.
• Offers stunning landscape design opportunities with features like waterfalls, caves, and custom spas.
• Additional elements such as fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, and landscaping services can further enhance the pool area.

• Benefits:
• Creates a beautiful, naturalistic oasis that blends with the surrounding landscape.
• Offers endless possibilities for customization, making each pool truly unique.
• Ideal for those seeking a more relaxed, informal pool design that still provides functionality and beauty.

Notable examples of these pool designs include:

• Geometric Pools: The St. Regis Bermuda Resort showcases two beachfront geometric pools that mimic the natural curve of St. Catherine's Beach, while the Live Aqua Beach Resort in Punta Cana features linear pools lined with day beds.
• Freeform Pools: Finca Rosa Blanca in Costa Rica integrates the pool seamlessly with living and partying spaces, and Cali Mykonos in Greece boasts a curvaceous pool that stands out in the secluded beach town hotel.

Both geometric and freeform pools offer distinct advantages and can be tailored to fit the specific needs and preferences of any homeowner, making them a central feature in the world of sophisticated pool designs.

Resort-Inspired Lagoon Pools

Resort-inspired lagoon pools are transforming the way we experience leisure and luxury, merging the beauty of natural landscapes with the comfort of modern amenities. These pools are designed to provide an immersive experience, often featuring elements that mimic a tropical paradise. Here are some notable aspects and examples:

• Unique Features:
• Small Swimming Pools: The Bali Mandira Beach Resort & Spa showcases the charm of plunge pools, perfect for a quick dip in a more intimate setting.
• Jump Rocks: Offering a subdued yet thrilling entry, jump rocks are a favorite in tropical or lagoon-style pools, enhancing the natural feel.
• Integrated Water Features: The Manava Suite Resort in Tahiti boasts a massive pool with waterfalls and an infinity edge, creating a seamless blend with the ocean.
• Activity-Centric Design: The Fairmont Kea Lani in Wailea, Maui, features two lagoon-style activity pools connected by a 140-foot waterslide, catering to both relaxation and fun.

• Resort Highlights:
• The Sobreiras–Alentejo Country Hotel, Portugal: A ceramic tile terrace connects the lounge, restaurant, and pool, emphasizing the seamless indoor-outdoor living.
• The Fountains Resort, Orlando, FL: Wakoola Springs pool comes equipped with a splash pad, two waterslides, and water volleyball, making it a haven for family fun.
• Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate, Orlando, FL: Known for its wave pool, zero-entry family pool, and an 850-foot lazy river, offering a variety of water experiences.
• Club Wyndham Bonnet Creek, Orlando, FL: Features five outdoor swimming pools, two lazy rivers, and a pirate ship pool, ensuring entertainment for all ages.

• For the Adventurous and Families:
• Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts, Punta Cana: Aqua Nick waterpark includes winding water slides and a lazy river ride, topped with the unique Slimulator for mass slimings.
• Disney's Aulani Resort, Ko Olina, HI: Offers a comprehensive pool area with water slides, a lazy river, and character time, perfect for family vacations.
• Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real, Dominican Republic: Houses multiple pools including an aqua waterpark and swim-up suites, blending luxury with fun.

Resort-inspired lagoon pools are more than just swimming areas; they are designed to be the centerpiece of the resort, offering a blend of relaxation, fun, and natural beauty. Whether it's a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, these pools cater to every type of traveler, providing unforgettable experiences that highlight the essence of luxury resort living.

Lap Pools for the Fitness Enthusiast

Lap pools, with their long and slim design, seamlessly fit into almost any property, offering an ideal solution for fitness enthusiasts seeking a convenient and efficient way to incorporate swimming exercises into their routine. Here’s a closer look at why lap pools, along with plunge pools and spools, are becoming a favorite among those looking to blend fitness with leisure:

• Versatility and Customization:
• Can be built to any size and depth, accommodating various spaces and preferences.
• Smaller volume than regular pools, resulting in cheaper heating costs.
• Custom pools can be tailored for aquatic therapy, catering to any ability level, making them inclusive for all.

• Fitness and Health Benefits:
• Lap pools provide resistance for swimming exercises, making them one of the best pool types for fitness.
• Plunge pools, though smaller, are excellent for cardio-based exercises which can significantly improve overall health.
• Cocktail pools are ideal for aerobic exercises such as kickboard drills, pool walking/running, and leg and core training, offering a versatile space for a comprehensive workout.

• Innovative Options for Exercise:
• Endless Pools and SwimEx are two notable brands offering products geared towards fitness enthusiasts:
• Endless Pools features modular pools with adjustable currents, underwater treadmills, and swim spas, providing a customizable resistance level for swimming and exercise. They also offer additional exercise equipment like the Aquabike, Underwater Treadmill, and rowing kit.
• SwimEx offers a range of residential swim spas, including lap pools, therapy pools, and fitness pools. Their swim spa models are compact, freestanding, and designed to be cost-effective in terms of heating and maintenance. Built to last, these pools come with a solid fiberglass composite structure, ensuring durability and ease of maintenance.

For those looking to incorporate swimming into their fitness regimen, the options are vast and varied. From the 50-foot long custom lap pool in Austin, Texas, designed for a homeowner’s triathlon training, to the 4,280-square-foot pool and guesthouse in Westport, Connecticut, featuring a 75-foot saltwater lap pool, the possibilities are endless. Whether it’s for rigorous training or gentle aquatic therapy, these pools offer a blend of functionality, design, and health benefits, making them a coveted feature for any fitness enthusiast.

Rooftop Pools: Urban Oasis

Rooftop pools serve as urban oases, providing a luxurious escape amidst the bustling cityscapes. These pools are not just for swimming; they are architectural marvels that offer breathtaking views, state-of-the-art amenities, and a unique swimming experience. Here are some notable rooftop pools from around the globe:

• Innovative Designs and Features:
• Swim spas with treadmill integration for fitness enthusiasts.
• Rooftop pools equipped with swim jet systems for resistance swimming.
• Features like bench seating, LED lighting, and neighboring copper spas enhance the luxury experience.

• Notable Rooftop Pools Around the World:
• The Downtown L.A. Proper hotel, Los Angeles: Indoor pool on the seventh floor designed by Kelly Wearstler.
• Publica Isrotel, Israel: Rooftop pool deck with views of the Herzliya city skyline.
• NOPSI Hotel, New Orleans: Located in the heart of the city, offering a vibrant rooftop pool experience.
• Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen, Mexico: Exclusive rooftop pool for Preferred Club guests, overlooking the Caribbean.
• The Ritz-Carlton, Turks and Caicos: An adults-only pool complemented by two vintage VW vans converted into cocktail bars.

• Rooftop Pools with Exceptional Views and Amenities:
• Hotel Californian, Santa Barbara: "Tan Tan" rooftop pool with Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez Mountains views. From $518 per night.
• Hewing Hotel, Minneapolis: Converts to a hot tub in winter, offering year-round enjoyment. From $189 per night.
• Market Pavilion Hotel, Charleston: Romantic hideaway with harbor views. From $289 per night.
• Bobby Hotel, Nashville: Live outdoor music and a fun Nashville scene. From $209 per night.
• 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, New York City: Rooftop plunge pool with Lower Manhattan views. From $400 per night.

These rooftop pools, from the heart of bustling cities like Los Angeles and New York to the serene landscapes of Santa Barbara and Charleston, redefine luxury and leisure. They not only offer a refreshing swim but also provide a unique vantage point to appreciate the beauty of the urban environment.

Whether it's for fitness, relaxation, or simply to escape the city's hustle and bustle, these rooftop pools are destinations in their own right, catering to a wide range of preferences and providing unforgettable experiences.

Sculptural Pools with Artistic Flair

Sculptural pools with artistic flair take swimming pool designs to the next level, transforming them from mere water bodies to immersive art installations. These pools not only serve the functional purpose of swimming but also act as focal points of aesthetic and artistic expression in outdoor spaces.

Here are some notable examples of sculptural pools that blend art with aquatic leisure:

• James Turrell's Heavy Water (1992): This unique pool measures 35-by-35-foot with a depth of five feet, inviting visitors to don retro-inspired bathing suits and dive into an experience that is both visually and sensorially stimulating.
• David Hockney's Roosevelt Hotel pool (1988): Known for its vibrant blue squiggly lines at the bottom, the pool transforms into a dynamic art piece when disturbed by the splash of a diver, creating an ever-changing canvas.
• Sylvie Fleury's Pool: Offers a stark contrast with its somber black-granite space, featuring the motivational words "Be Amazing" etched at the bottom using steel cutouts, encouraging swimmers to dive into depths beyond the physical.

In addition to these artist-designed pools, various elements can be incorporated into pool designs to enhance their sculptural quality:

• Enhancing Visual Appeal:
• Diver sculptures from Frontgate add a touch of whimsy and elegance, creating an intriguing visual narrative.
• Commissioned art projects and figurative art, such as the 'Summertime Woman' sculpture, integrate seamlessly with the pool area, inviting contemplation and conversation.

• Functional Art:
• Splinter Works introduces a line of sculptural water slides for modern pools, which are as much a piece of art as they are a fun addition to the pool. These slides feature sleek curves that echo the fluidity of water, merging functionality with artistry.

Resorts and hotels have also embraced the concept of sculptural pools, incorporating them into their design ethos to offer guests an unparalleled experience:

• L’Horizon Resort and Spa by Steve Hermann Design Studio in Palm Springs, California, showcases a pool that epitomizes Palm Springs modernism, blending clean lines with the desert landscape.
• Falcon’s Resort by Melia – All Suites Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, features expansive main pools lined with swim-up suites, complemented by BLAST! Waterpark and Katmandu Park – Punta Cana, offering both artistic appeal and entertainment.

These examples illustrate how sculptural pools with artistic flair are not just about swimming; they are about experiencing art in a unique, immersive environment, making every dip a dive into the extraordinary.

Pools with Integrated Spa Features

Integrating a spa into the design of an inground swimming pool provides a seamless blend of relaxation and aquatic enjoyment. Here's how these integrated spa features elevate pool designs:

• Design Integration and Functionality:
• The spa is ingeniously positioned within the swimming pool, appearing as an integral part of the pool’s overall structure, separated only by a dam wall. This design prevents cold pool water from mixing with the heated spa, ensuring optimal temperature control.
• Utilizing the same pump and filtration system for both the pool and spa not only saves energy but also reduces costs, making it an efficient choice for pool owners.
• Whether attached or detached, spas can be customized in shape and size, either blending with the pool’s design or contrasting it to stand out as a focal point.

• Types of Integrated Spas:
• Raised Perimeter-Overflow Spas: Feature walls set lower than the water level, allowing water to spill over the perimeter into the pool, creating a visually stunning effect.
• Spillover Spas: Designed with sections of the spa wall built at a lower level, enabling water to flow gracefully into the pool.
• Detached Spas: Situated in a separate area, these spas offer more space and privacy, making them a perfect retreat.

• Additional Features and Benefits:
• Custom Swim Spas: Merge cutting-edge technology with durability and visual appeal, offering benefits like reduced muscle strain, enhanced cardiovascular function, and improved muscle strength.
• Indoor Options: The Arctic Ocean™ swim spa by Arctic Spas™ simplifies indoor pools by combining traditional swimming functions with luxurious spa features, offering a compact, all-in-one solution.
• Stainless Steel Water Curtains: Not only serve as an elegant visual accessory but also provide hydromassage benefits, aiding in pain relief and stress reduction.
• Child-Friendly Designs: Spas can be especially appealing to younger children, offering a controlled environment that’s comfortable and safe for kids to play in.

Integrating spa features into pool designs not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also adds a layer of functionality and luxury, making the swimming experience more enjoyable and relaxing. Whether it’s for health benefits, aesthetic reasons, or to provide a safe play area for children, pools with integrated spa features represent a sophisticated and versatile choice in modern pool design.

Kid-Friendly Designs: Pools with a Fun Twist

Transforming a backyard pool into a kid-friendly paradise is about blending fun features with safety and convenience. Here are some innovative ideas and accessories to make swimming pools enjoyable for children while ensuring parents' peace of mind:

• Fun Features for Kids:
• Slides and Diving Boards: Custom-designed slides with water jets add an exhilarating way for kids to enter the pool. For an added "unbridled-joy-of-flying-through-air" feeling, springboard diving boards with different levels of bounce are a hit.
• Water Slides and Grotto Waterfalls: Built-in water slides offer endless fun, and rock grotto waterfalls create a magical play space beneath, turning the pool into an adventure land.
• Sports Pools: The "3-5-3" or "4-5-4" design, featuring shallow areas at both ends and a slightly deeper middle, is perfect for pool games and sports, catering to kids' competitive spirit.
• Deck Jets: These create captivating arcs of water, often illuminated with colored LEDs for nighttime enjoyment, adding a visual spectacle to the pool area.

• Safety and Comfort:
• Pebble Sheen Finish: A pool finish like Pebble Sheen by Pebble Tec offers a non-slip surface, reducing the risk of slips and falls around the pool area.
• Safety Covers: Essential for families with young children, safety covers provide an extra layer of protection against accidental drownings and pool accidents.
• Sun Shelves and Benches: These features create shallow areas where children can play under supervision and offer a place for adults to relax while keeping an eye on the little ones.

• Additional Touches:
• DIY Pool Towel Rack: A unique and functional addition, a DIY towel rack made from repurposed croquet mallets, keeps towels dry and adds a playful element to the poolside.
• Tanning Ledge: Also known as a sun shelf, this shallow area is perfect for smaller children to splash and play safely, doubling as a cool spot for adults to lounge.

Incorporating these elements into pool designs not only enhances the fun factor for kids but also addresses parents' concerns for safety and convenience. With companies like Blue Haven Pools & Spas offering a variety of child-friendly designs, including those with integrated water slides, creating a backyard oasis that is both enjoyable and safe for the whole family has never been easier.

The World's Best Swimming Pool Designs

Exploring the world's best swimming pool designs reveals a diverse range of aesthetics and functionalities, from serene natural settings to architectural marvels. Here's a closer look at some of the most stunning pools across the globe, showcasing innovation and luxury:

• Innovative Water Features and Accessories:
• Stainless Steel Water Curtain: Adds a sleek, modern touch and the soothing sound of falling water.
• Fountain Elements: Create a spa-like ambiance with the tranquil sound of flowing water.
• Swimming Jets and Baja Shelves: Enhance the swimming experience with built-in resistance for workouts and shallow lounging areas.

• Notable Global Examples:
• Explora Valle Sagrado, Peru: Offers breathtaking views of the Andes, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and luxury.
• Habitas Namibia: Located on a private wildlife reserve, this pool allows guests to immerse themselves in nature.
• Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Antibes, France: A saltwater pool carved into basalt rock, epitomizing glamour on the French Riviera.
• Alila Kothaifaru Maldives: Surrounded by lush nature, it stands out as one of the most beautiful pools in the Maldives.

• Design and Material Considerations:
• Materials: Vinyl, concrete, and fiberglass are popular for their durability, with colorful mosaic tiles or stone water features adding aesthetic value.
• Design Options: Location, size, and desired activity guide the design process, emphasizing long-term maintenance and quality materials for longevity.
• Luxury and Small Pool Designs: Both can achieve a high-end look, with options for incorporating pool houses and patios for outdoor living spaces.

The integration of innovative features and careful consideration of design elements and materials contribute to creating some of the world's most stunning swimming pools. From the serene to the architectural, these pools not only serve as places for relaxation and exercise but also as significant enhancements to the landscapes and properties they adorn.