Custom Pool Designs: Must-Have Features & Top Trends
A luxury swimming pool isn’t just about cooling off—it’s about creating a stunning backyard retreat that enhances your lifestyle and property value. With evolving trends and innovative features, homeowners today have more options than ever to design a custom swimming pool that’s both beautiful and functional.
Whether you’re planning a new luxury swimming pool design or upgrading an existing pool, this guide explores the best pool designs and top swimming pool design trends shaping 2025.
Must-Have Features for a Luxury Custom Pool
A truly high-end swimming pool isn’t just about the size or shape—it’s about integrating the right features to create a one-of-a-kind backyard experience. Here are some must-have elements to consider.
1. Infinity Edges
Infinity pools (also known as vanishing edge pools) create the illusion of water merging with the horizon. These are especially popular for properties with stunning views, such as those overlooking hills, lakes, or city skylines.
2. Sun Shelves & Tanning Ledges
A tanning ledge is a shallow, built-in platform within the pool, perfect for lounging in the water while staying partially dry. These are great for families, as they provide a safe spot for small children to play while adding a resort-like feel.
3. Built-in Spas & Hydrotherapy Jets
Why settle for just a pool when you can have a spa built right in? Custom pools often integrate hot tubs or hydrotherapy jets, allowing homeowners to enjoy relaxation and wellness benefits alongside their main swimming area.
4. Waterfalls & Fire Features
Adding natural elements like cascading waterfalls, fire bowls, or fire pits can create a dramatic focal point and enhance the ambiance of your backyard retreat. Fire and water features are among the most sought-after custom pool features in modern luxury designs.
5. Advanced LED Lighting
Smart color-changing LED lights can set the mood for evening swims, highlight architectural features, and even sync with music or outdoor entertainment systems.
6. Swim-Up Bars & In-Water Seating
Bringing resort-style living to your home, swim-up bars and in-water seating allow guests to relax with a drink without ever leaving the pool.
7. Smart Pool Technology & Automation
From app-controlled pool heating and filtration to self-cleaning pool systems, smart technology is making pool maintenance easier than ever. Many high-end pools now include automation features that allow homeowners to control temperature, lighting, and cleaning systems remotely via a smartphone or tablet.
Top Swimming Pool Design Trends for 2025
As pool design evolves, homeowners are embracing sleek, contemporary styles combined with sustainable and energy-efficient solutions. Here are the biggest swimming pool design trends for 2025, from Ocean Modern Home.
1. Organic, Freeform Shapes
While classic rectangular pools remain popular, many homeowners are opting for freeform, curved designs that mimic natural lagoons. These designs integrate better with landscaping and create a more relaxed, resort-like atmosphere.
2. Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Pools
With growing concerns about environmental impact, more homeowners are choosing energy-efficient pool systems, solar heating, and natural filtration methods. Saltwater pools and chlorine-free systems are also gaining traction as healthier, more eco-friendly alternatives.
3. Dark Interior Pool Finishes
Rather than the traditional bright blue, many luxury swimming pools now feature dark plaster or pebble finishes in deep grays, blacks, or dark blues. This creates a sleek, mirror-like effect and helps absorb heat, making the pool naturally warmer.
4. Plunge Pools & Cocktail Pools
For homeowners with smaller backyards, plunge pools (compact pools designed for cooling off and relaxation) are becoming increasingly popular. These are often paired with built-in seating and hydrotherapy jets for maximum comfort in minimal space.
5. Glass-Tiled Pools
Glass tile interiors create a shimmering, high-end look that enhances the pool’s aesthetic appeal. These tiles reflect sunlight beautifully and offer a more luxurious, modern finish than traditional plaster or pebble surfaces.
6. Baja Shelves with Umbrella Holders
Shallow Baja shelves (also called sun shelves) are being customized with umbrella holders, lounge chairs, and built-in seating, allowing for a true resort-style experience right at home.
7. Multipurpose Pools for Exercise & Relaxation
Instead of just recreation, homeowners are designing pools with lap lanes, resistance jets, and underwater treadmills for fitness-focused swimming. This trend blends health and leisure in one space.
Creating Your Dream Pool with Element Pools & Spas
At Element Pools & Spas, we specialize in custom luxury pool designs that combine stunning aesthetics, innovative features, and top-tier craftsmanship. Whether you’re in Temecula, CA, Phoenix, AZ, or Salt Lake City, UT, our team is here to turn your vision into reality.
We offer:
Custom pool design consultations to match your style and space
Premium materials and state-of-the-art features
Expert craftsmanship backed by years of experience
Seamless project management from start to finish
Start Designing Your Luxury Pool Today
If you’re ready to transform your backyard with a custom pool tailored to your lifestyle, contact Element Pools & Spas today.