When designing your dream pool, choosing the right pool shape and size can make all the difference. With the right design, your inground pool becomes more than a place to swim—it becomes a personal luxury escape that enhances your entire backyard.
At Pools Out Back, we specialize in helping Amarillo homeowners create custom pools that fit their lifestyle and turn backyards into personal retreats. If you’re just starting to explore pool design ideas, here’s what you need to know about selecting the perfect fit for your yard.
Key Factors in Planning Your Backyard Pool Design:
Backyard Layout and Pool Size
Before diving into shapes and features, it’s essential to start with the space you have. Your pool should complement your yard—not compete with it. Consider your existing backyard layout, like the size, landscaping, patios, and structures like sheds, fences, and trees.
Think about how much of your yard you want the pool to take up. Do you need to leave a grassy area for dogs and children? Would you like a space for outdoor furniture or an outdoor kitchen? A well-sized pool is one that leaves enough room for other features that matter to you.
The average backyard pool is between 12×24 feet and 20×40 feet, but there’s no one-size-fits-all. A pool that’s too big can overwhelm the space, and one that’s too small may look awkward and out of place. We’ll help you evaluate your yard, your goals, and any HOA or city regulations to determine the ideal dimensions for your pool.
Depth
When considering custom pool sizes, don’t overlook depth. A pool with a consistent shallow depth (3–5 feet) may be perfect for socializing, while one with a deep end is better for diving or cannonballs. If you have young children, a gradual slope from shallow to deep offers versatility and safety.
Depth will affect your pool’s overall shape. For example, an L-shaped pool or kidney design can accommodate varied depths better than geometric or rectangle designs.
Your Pool’s Purpose
The way you plan to use your pool will help determine its shape and size. Start by asking yourself: what’s your pool for?
Family fun: Choose a shape with plenty of shallow space, room to swim, and built-in seating.
Lap swimming: Long, narrow shapes like rectangles or lap pools work best.
Entertaining: Consider pools with tanning ledges, swim-up bars, or attached hot tubs for maximum luxury.
Once you define how you’ll use the pool, it becomes much easier to choose a shape and size that supports that experience.
Aesthetic
Your pool should feel like an extension of your home, not an afterthought. If your house has clean, contemporary lines, a geometric pool might be the best match. More rustic or natural landscaping may call for a freeform design. During your consultation, we’ll look at your home’s architecture and exterior materials to create a cohesive visual flow.
Popular Pool Shapes
While your pool can be customized in nearly any configuration, these popular shapes are loved for their versatility and style:
Rectangle:
A classic and functional choice, great for both swimming laps and a sleek, modern look.
Freeform:
Designed with curves and irregular edges, this style mimics natural bodies of water and blends well with landscaping.
L-shape:
Ideal for dividing shallow and deep ends or separating lounging and swimming areas.
Kidney or Oval:
Offers a softer look and works well in a variety of backyard sizes.
Geometric:
Think clean lines and sharp angles—perfect for contemporary homes.
Don’t be afraid to combine elements or go entirely custom. The beauty of working with a local builder like Pools Out Back is that we tailor each project to suit your space and style.
Ready to Design Your Dream Pool?
Whether you’re drawn to timeless shapes or you want something truly unique, Pools Out Back is here to guide you every step of the way. We specialize in designing and building custom pool sizes and shapes that reflect your vision and make the most of your Amarillo backyard.
Contact us today to schedule your free estimate and start bringing your pool design ideas to life.
