Before settling on a particular pool shape or style, consider how your backyard functions and what you want from your new pool.
Backyard size and layout: The available space, property boundaries, existing landscaping, and proximity to your home all influence which pool designs will work best. It’s also important to identify any existing utility easements or other easements on your property, as these may restrict where a pool or other structures can be built. A smaller backyard may benefit from a compact geometric pool, while a larger property may accommodate an expansive freeform design with additional outdoor living features. Before finalizing your design, your pool builder should consider applicable property setbacks, easement restrictions, underground utilities, and other site-specific requirements.
How you plan to use your pool: Do you want a place for children to play, a relaxing retreat, a space to entertain guests, or an area for exercise? Your primary goals will help determine the pool’s shape, depth, layout, and features.
Your home’s architectural style: A well-designed pool should complement your home rather than compete with it. Clean lines often pair well with contemporary architecture, while flowing shapes can complement traditional homes and natural landscaping.
Desired features: Consider whether you want an attached spa, tanning ledge, waterfall, beach entry, swim-up seating, or other custom features. Planning these elements early helps create a cohesive design.
Maintenance and long-term use: Different layouts and features can affect cleaning requirements, equipment needs, and ongoing maintenance. Consider how much time you want to spend maintaining your pool alongside how you want to enjoy it.
6 Swimming Pool Designs to Consider for Your Backyard
There isn’t one pool design that works for every homeowner. These six options offer different advantages depending on your available space, personal style, and intended use.
Geometric pools feature defined shapes, straight lines, and clean angles. Common designs include rectangular, square, and L-shaped pools.
Their structured appearance makes them a natural fit for contemporary homes, minimalist landscaping, and outdoor spaces with strong architectural lines. Geometric pools can also create a natural visual connection between the house, patio, and surrounding landscape.
Why choose a geometric pool?
Creates a clean, timeless architectural appearance.
Works well with modern homes and structured landscaping.
Can accommodate dedicated swimming lanes or open swimming areas.
Pairs naturally with tanning ledges, integrated spas, and linear water features.
A rectangular pool with an attached spa and a spacious patio, for example, can create an elegant outdoor living space without overwhelming the home’s architecture.
Best for: Homeowners who prefer modern design, defined shapes, and a clean, organized backyard layout.
Freeform pools feature curved edges and flowing shapes that create a more organic appearance. Rather than following strict geometric lines, these designs can work with the contours of the property and surrounding landscaping.
They are particularly appealing to homeowners who want their backyard to feel like a private retreat. Natural stone, lush landscaping, cascading waterfalls, and strategically placed boulders can enhance the effect.
Why choose a freeform pool?
Creates a softer, more organic appearance.
Complements natural landscaping and curved garden beds.
Offers flexibility when designing around existing outdoor features.
Works well with rock waterfalls, grottos, and tropical-inspired settings.
A freeform pool surrounded by layered landscaping and a cascading water feature can transform an ordinary backyard into a relaxing escape.
Best for: Homeowners who prefer natural shapes, resort-inspired environments, and a more relaxed outdoor atmosphere.
A smaller backyard doesn’t necessarily mean giving up on a custom swimming pool. Compact designs can provide a place to cool off, relax, and entertain without requiring a large portion of the property.
Geometric shapes are often a practical choice for smaller spaces because their defined footprints can make planning easier. However, the best layout depends on property dimensions, setbacks, access, and other site conditions.
Why choose a compact pool?
Makes efficient use of limited backyard space.
Can leave room for seating, landscaping, or an outdoor dining area.
Can incorporate premium features in a smaller footprint.
May reduce the amount of space dedicated to pool decking and surrounding hardscape.
Features such as a tanning ledge, bench seating, or a compact attached spa can add functionality without requiring a sprawling pool design.
Best for: Homeowners with smaller lots who want to balance swimming and relaxation with other outdoor living priorities.
4. Family-Friendly Pools: Best for Recreation and Everyday Enjoyment
For households that envision their pool as the center of family activities, the layout should prioritize how everyone will use the space.
A family-friendly pool may feature a shallow lounging area, a tanning ledge, open swimming space, or different depth zones designed around the household’s needs. The goal is to create a versatile environment for play, relaxation, and spending time together.
Why choose a family-focused design?
Can accommodate different activities within one pool.
Provides opportunities for lounging and open swimming.
Can incorporate seating areas for adults and shallow areas for supervised play.
Offers flexibility as family needs change over time.
When planning a family pool, discuss appropriate depths, visibility, entry and exit points, and safety features with your pool designer. Shallow areas and tanning ledges are not substitutes for active supervision or appropriate barriers.
Best for: Homeowners who want a versatile backyard gathering place for everyday family use and entertaining.
5. Lap Pools: Best for Fitness and Swimming
Lap pools are designed primarily for swimming exercise. Their long, relatively narrow shape provides a dedicated area for swimming back and forth, making them appealing to homeowners who want to incorporate fitness into their outdoor space.
Although rectangular designs are common, the ideal dimensions depend on the available property, intended workouts, and personal preferences.
Why choose a lap pool?
Provides dedicated space for swimming exercise.
Offers a straightforward, functional layout.
Can complement contemporary landscaping and architecture.
May fit along the side of a property or within a narrow backyard, depending on site requirements.
Homeowners interested in swimming workouts should discuss the intended pool length, depth, and circulation with their designer. For some properties, a compact pool with a suitable counter-current swimming system may be another option.
Best for: Homeowners who prioritize swimming, exercise, and a functional design over elaborate recreational features.
6. Resort-Style Pools: Best for Luxury Outdoor Living
Resort-style pools focus on creating an immersive outdoor experience. These designs often combine multiple features into a cohesive environment that feels like a private vacation destination.
Depending on the property and homeowner’s vision, a resort-inspired pool may include an integrated spa, tanning ledge, waterfall, fire bowls, dramatic lighting, or expansive lounging areas.
Why choose a resort-style pool?
Creates a focal point for the entire backyard.
Combines swimming, relaxation, and entertaining.
Offers opportunities to integrate water, fire, lighting, and landscaping.
Can connect the pool to outdoor kitchens, covered patios, and other living spaces.
The most successful resort-style designs balance impressive features with practical circulation, seating, maintenance access, and the overall layout of the property.
Best for: Homeowners who want a more immersive outdoor living environment with space for relaxation, entertaining, and enjoying their backyard.
Which Pool Features Should You Consider?
Once you’ve narrowed down the general pool design, consider which features will make it more enjoyable and functional.
Tanning ledges: These shallow areas provide space for lounging in the water and can accommodate in-water lounge chairs designed for the intended depth.
Spas: An integrated spa adds another way to enjoy the backyard and can create a natural transition between relaxation and swimming areas.
Waterfalls and water features: Cascades, deck jets, and other features add movement and sound while helping establish the pool’s overall aesthetic.
Beach entries: A gradually sloping entry can create a distinctive look and provide a gradual transition into the pool. The appropriate design depends on the property’s space and intended use.
Fire features: Fire bowls and other outdoor fire elements can create a striking contrast with the water and add atmosphere to evening gatherings.
Lighting: Thoughtfully placed pool and landscape lighting can improve visibility and create a more inviting environment after sunset. Lighting should be designed alongside appropriate pool safety measures.
You don’t need to include every available feature. The best design prioritizes the elements that suit your lifestyle, complement your home, and fit your outdoor space.
How Do You Choose the Right Pool Shape for Your Backyard?
If you’re deciding between a geometric, freeform, or compact pool, start by evaluating the property itself.
A geometric pool may be the strongest option when you want defined lines that complement the home’s architecture. A freeform design may work better when you prefer a softer appearance that blends with the landscaping. A compact design can help balance swimming space with a patio, garden, or other outdoor living features.
The shape is only one part of the decision. Your designer should also consider property dimensions, setbacks, drainage, underground utilities, access for construction equipment, and any site-specific engineering requirements.
It is also important to look beyond the pool itself. A design that fills the entire backyard may leave little room for the seating, shade, landscaping, and gathering areas that make the space enjoyable. Planning the pool and surrounding environment together can help create a more balanced result.
What Type of Pool Is Best for Your Lifestyle?
The right pool is ultimately the one that fits the way you want to live.
If you enjoy hosting gatherings, you may prefer an open swimming area with convenient access to outdoor seating. If relaxation is your priority, an attached spa, tanning ledge, or water feature may be more important than maximizing swimming space. If fitness is your primary goal, a dedicated lap pool may make more sense than a design centered on decorative features.
Consider how your needs might change over time, too. A pool that works for young children should also offer flexibility as they grow, while homeowners planning to stay in their homes for many years may prioritize long-term accessibility and ease of maintenance.
A custom design gives you the opportunity to balance these priorities rather than choosing a one-size-fits-all layout.
Design a Custom Pool With Cody Pools
The best swimming pool design starts with your property, your priorities, and your vision for outdoor living. From sleek geometric pools and natural freeform designs to family-friendly layouts and resort-inspired backyards, a thoughtful design can help you get more enjoyment from your outdoor space.
Cody Pools brings experience in designing and building custom swimming pools for homeowners with different properties, lifestyles, and design preferences. Our team can help you explore your options, consider the details that matter most, and develop a design tailored to your backyard.
Ready to start planning? Explore our pool design gallery for inspiration and contact Cody Pools to discuss your custom pool project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular swimming pool shape?
Rectangular and other geometric pools are popular choices for their clean appearance and versatility. Freeform pools are also widely used, particularly in backyards designed around natural landscaping or resort-style features. The best shape depends on the property, home architecture, and intended use.
What type of pool is best for a small backyard?
A compact geometric pool is often a practical starting point because its defined footprint can make it easier to plan around patios, landscaping, and property boundaries. The right design depends on the available space, local requirements, and the features you want to include.
Are geometric pools better than freeform pools?
Neither design is universally better. Geometric pools tend to suit structured, contemporary spaces, while freeform pools offer a softer, more organic appearance. Both can be customized with features such as spas, tanning ledges, lighting, and water features.
What type of pool is best for families?
A family-friendly pool should reflect the ages, interests, and needs of the people who will use it. Open swimming space, appropriate depth zones, convenient entry points, and thoughtfully selected features can help create a versatile environment. Active supervision and appropriate safety barriers remain essential.
Can you add a spa or tanning ledge to a custom pool?
Yes, an attached spa or tanning ledge can be incorporated into many custom pool designs. Feasibility depends on the available space, layout, engineering, and other project requirements, so these features should be discussed during the design process.
How do you know which pool design will fit your property?
Start by evaluating the usable backyard area, property setbacks, access, drainage, and existing structures. A custom pool designer can help assess these factors and develop a layout that balances swimming space with decking, landscaping, and outdoor living areas.
Should you design your pool and outdoor living space together?
Yes. Planning the pool alongside patios, shade structures, landscaping, outdoor kitchens, and seating areas helps create a cohesive backyard. It can also make it easier to coordinate circulation, utilities, and construction requirements before work begins.
Cody Pools is proud to announce that our teams have received 28 International Awards of Excellence from the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), recognizing outstanding pool and outdoor living projects across multiple categories.
This year’s awards include:
5 Gold Awards
5 Silver Awards
7 Bronze Awards
11 Merit Awards
These awards recognize the creativity, craftsmanship, and attention to detail that go into the pools and outdoor living spaces designed and built by Cody Pools.
See Our Award-Winning Work
Take a look at some of the projects and craftsmanship behind this year’s recognition:
From innovative pool designs to thoughtfully integrated outdoor environments, each project reflects our commitment to creating spaces that bring people together and are built to be enjoyed for years to come.
Recognized Among the Best in the Industry
The PHTA International Awards of Excellence are among the pool and spa industry’s most respected design and construction honors. Each year, the program recognizes exceptional work from professionals across the industry, highlighting projects that demonstrate creativity, technical expertise, craftsmanship, and thoughtful design.
For Cody Pools, these awards are a reflection of the many people who contribute to bringing each project to life.
Our designers work to understand how homeowners want to use their outdoor spaces. Our construction teams turn those designs into reality through careful planning and craftsmanship. And our project managers, service teams, and support staff help ensure every detail receives the attention it deserves.
28 Awards Across Our Markets
Receiving 28 awards in a single year is particularly meaningful because the recognition spans a wide range of projects and design approaches.
Some projects showcase clean, modern lines and sophisticated finishes, while others incorporate expansive outdoor living areas, water features, custom details, and unique architectural elements. Each project presents its own challenges and opportunities, and our teams work to create a finished space that is both visually striking and functional for the people who will use it.
The result is a collection of award-winning projects that demonstrates the range of possibilities available when thoughtful design and quality construction come together.
Recognition Made Possible by Our Teams
Awards like these are never the result of one person or one department. They are the result of collaboration from the first design concept through construction and completion.
We are proud of the designers, sales professionals, project managers, construction crews, subcontractors, and support teams whose work makes these projects possible.
Most importantly, we are grateful to the homeowners who trusted Cody Pools to bring their outdoor living visions to life. Their ideas, preferences, and partnership throughout the process are an important part of every successful project.
Featured in Aqua Magazine
The winning Cody Pools projects will also be featured in the October 2026 issue of Aqua Magazine, providing an opportunity to showcase this work to an even broader audience within the pool and spa industry.
We are honored to have our projects recognized alongside exceptional work from pool builders and professionals from across the industry.
Building Award-Winning Outdoor Spaces
Since 1994, Cody Pools has continued to evolve while staying focused on the fundamentals that matter most: thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and a commitment to our customers.
These 28 PHTA International Awards of Excellence are another milestone in that journey. They recognize not only the finished projects, but also the people, ideas, and craftsmanship behind them.
Congratulations to everyone at Cody Pools who helped make these 28 awards possible, and thank you to our customers for allowing us to create outdoor spaces where families and friends can gather, relax, and make lasting memories.
To explore more of Cody Pools’ award-winning work and learn what is possible for your own backyard, contact Cody Pools today.
For the 14th consecutive year, Cody Pools has been recognized as the #1 Pool Builder in the Nation by Pool & Spa News in its prestigious 2026 PSN/Hayward Top 50 Builders rankings.
This remarkable achievement is more than an award, it’s a reflection of the trust our customers place in us, the dedication of our team, and our unwavering commitment to building exceptional pools and delivering an outstanding customer experience. Being named the nation’s top pool builder for 14 straight years is an honor we don’t take lightly, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has made it possible.
A Legacy of Excellence
Since 1994, Cody Pools has been helping families transform their backyards into extraordinary outdoor living spaces. From timeless, elegant pool designs to resort-inspired retreats complete with spas, water features, fire features, outdoor kitchens, and more, every project is thoughtfully designed and expertly crafted to reflect each homeowner’s vision.
Each year, the Pool & Spa News Top 50 Builders list recognizes the industry’s leading pool builders based on business performance, innovation, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence. Earning the #1 ranking for 14 consecutive years is a testament to the consistent quality, craftsmanship, and service that have become synonymous with the Cody Pools name.
Thank You to Our Customers
This recognition would not be possible without the thousands of homeowners who have trusted Cody Pools with one of the most meaningful investments in their home.
Thank you for allowing us to bring your backyard dreams to life. Your confidence inspires us to continue raising the bar and delivering an experience that exceeds expectations every step of the way.
Celebrating an Incredible Team
This achievement belongs to every member of the Cody Pools family. From our designers and superintendents to our construction crews and support staff, our team’s passion, expertise, and commitment to excellence are what continue to set Cody Pools apart.
Their dedication to quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service is the foundation of everything we do.
Watch Our #1 Announcement
We’re excited to celebrate this milestone with our customers, employees, and partners.
See the Official Rankings
View the complete 2026 PSN/Hayward Top 50 Builders rankings here:
Being named the #1 Pool Builder in the Nation for the 14th consecutive year is an incredible honor, but it’s also motivation to keep improving, innovating, and delivering the level of quality and service our customers have come to expect.
To everyone who has chosen Cody Pools over the years, thank you for your trust and support. We look forward to continuing to create beautiful backyards and unforgettable memories for families for many years to come.
Three States. One Common Theme: Summer Is Better by the Pool.
There are few things that Texas, Arizona, and Florida have in common geographically. Texas offers sprawling landscapes and vibrant cities, Arizona is known for its desert beauty and breathtaking mountain views, and Florida is surrounded by miles of coastline and tropical scenery.
But when summer arrives, these three states share one undeniable reality: the heat is here to stay.
Instead of planning your schedule around soaring temperatures, imagine stepping into your own backyard oasis whenever you want. A custom swimming pool transforms summer from something you endure into something you look forward to. Whether you’re hosting friends, spending time with family, or simply cooling off after work, a pool becomes the centerpiece of your home all season long.
Texas: Your Backyard Becomes the Weekend Destination
Summer in Texas means backyard barbecues, Fourth of July celebrations, and long evenings spent outdoors. But with temperatures regularly climbing into the 90s and 100s, finding a way to stay cool is essential.
A custom pool allows homeowners to make the most of every summer day without leaving home.
Watching the sunset from the spa with a cold drink in hand.
Rather than spending hours driving to crowded beaches, lakes or water parks, your favorite summer destination is just outside your back door. For Texas homeowners, a pool isn’t simply a luxury, it’s an extension of everyday living.
Arizona: Beat the Desert Heat
Arizona summers are legendary. Triple-digit temperatures are common, and afternoon sunshine can make outdoor activities challenging. While many people retreat indoors, homeowners with custom pools enjoy an entirely different experience.
Morning swims become part of the daily routine. Afternoons are spent floating beneath shade structures or relaxing beside cascading water features. Evenings become comfortable gathering spaces once the desert sun begins to set.
Today’s pool designs also incorporate cooling features such as:
With thoughtful design, your backyard becomes a private resort designed specifically for Arizona’s climate.
Florida: Enjoy Resort Living Every Day
Florida is synonymous with outdoor living. Warm weather, palm trees, and nearly year-round sunshine make pools one of the most popular home improvements throughout the state.
A custom pool perfectly complements Florida lifestyles by creating a space for:
Whether overlooking a lake, nestled among tropical landscaping, or situated just minutes from the beach, a thoughtfully designed pool creates the feeling of being on vacation without ever packing a suitcase. In Florida, outdoor living isn’t seasonal, it’s a way of life.
More Than a Place to Swim
Modern pools have evolved far beyond a simple rectangle filled with water.
The result is a complete outdoor living environment that can be enjoyed from sunrise until well after sunset. A custom pool becomes the centerpiece that brings every outdoor feature together.
A Place Where Families Make Memories
Some of life’s best moments happen at home. Children learning to swim. Birthday parties filled with laughter. Holiday cookouts. Quiet evenings floating beneath the stars.
These are the memories that families remember for decades. A custom pool creates opportunities to spend more time together without needing elaborate vacation plans or expensive weekend getaways. Instead of asking, “What should we do this weekend?” the answer is often as simple as stepping outside.
Designed for Your Lifestyle
No two families use their outdoor spaces the same way. Some homeowners prioritize entertaining large groups. Others want a peaceful retreat after busy workdays. Some envision a backyard where children can play safely for years to come.
A custom pool should reflect the way you live. Whether your style is sleek and modern, timeless and elegant, tropical, or resort-inspired, every design can be tailored to complement your home, your property, and your lifestyle.
Build Your Backyard Vacation
Across Texas, Arizona, and Florida, one thing is certain: summer isn’t going anywhere. Instead of escaping the heat, embrace it with a backyard built for relaxation, entertaining, and making memories.
At Cody Pools, we’ve spent decades designing award-winning custom pools that help homeowners enjoy more of the places they already love most, their own homes. This summer, skip the crowded resorts, avoid the long drives, and create a destination that’s always open. Because the best vacations don’t always require travel. Sometimes they’re waiting just outside your back door. Get started on building your dream pool today by reaching out for a free design and quote with Cody Pools.
The countdown to summer has officially begun. With the school year winding down and warmer days already here, families are getting ready for longer evenings, backyard gatherings, and nonstop time outside. That can only mean one thing: pool season is almost in full swing.
At Cody Pools, we know this time of year is all about preparing your home for the memories that summer brings. From family swim days to weekend cookouts, your backyard is about to become the place everyone wants to be.
Get Your Backyard Ready for Summer Fun
As kids finish up the school year, families start spending more time outdoors. A custom pool creates the perfect space to relax, stay active, and enjoy quality time together all summer long. Whether it is cooling off after summer camp, hosting friends for a weekend barbecue, or enjoying a quiet evening by the water, a pool transforms your backyard into a private retreat built for everyday living.
Poolside Living Starts Now
Summer entertaining starts before school is even officially out. Homeowners are already preparing their outdoor spaces with features designed for comfort, relaxation, and fun, including:
Open seating areas for entertaining family and friends
Today’s pools are designed to create a complete outdoor experience that can be enjoyed all season long.
Make Sure Your Pool Is Swim-Ready
Before summer schedules fill up, now is the perfect time to make sure your pool is clean, running efficiently, and ready for the busy season ahead. Proper maintenance helps keep your water clear and your equipment operating smoothly so you can enjoy a stress-free summer.
In addition to building custom pools, Cody Pools offers professional pool maintenance and repair services to help homeowners prepare for pool season. From equipment checks to weekly service, our team can help get your backyard ready before summer officially arrives.
Get Ready for Your Best Summer Yet
The school year may be winding down, but backyard season is just getting started. Now is the time to prepare your outdoor space for the months ahead and create a place where your family can relax, gather, and make memories all summer long.
Whether you are planning a new custom pool or getting your current pool ready for the season, Cody Pools is here to help you make the most of summer. Start by getting your free design and quote today!
