The Best Pool Shapes for Small Yards (With Visual Examples)
Having a pool in your backyard enhances the appearance of your house but also serves purposes other than decoration. Rather, it's about spending scorching summer days with friends and family. However, are you wondering about having a pool but think your backyard is too small? Don't worry; you don’t need a big yard to enjoy a beautiful and relaxing pool. With smart planning and the right swimming pool consultants' team, even a small space can become your own private getaway.
A backyard pool isn’t just for looks. It's an excellent place to cool off, spend time with family, and have fun on hot summer days. Whether you want a modern-looking pool or something more natural and cozy, there is a design to fit your needs. That is why working with experienced pool builders in Daytona Beach, FL is essential.
These experts understand how to create beautiful pools for small yards while ensuring style and comfort. Ready to get started? Continue reading to learn how to transform your small backyard into the ideal spot for relaxation.
Top 5 Pool Shapes Perfect for Small Yards
Rectangular Pools
Ideal for: Modern homes, lap swimming, and a clean appearance
Why it works:
Rectangle pools are a classic and extremely useful option, especially for smaller yards that benefit from straight lines and symmetry. Their clean edges make it simple to align with fencing or existing architecture, maximizing usable space. This shape is also ideal for swimmers who want a dedicated lane for exercise, as well as families looking for a pool that can be used for both fun and fitness.
Examples: A stylish 10x20-foot rectangular lap pool installed lengthwise along a backyard fence, complete with a built-in tanning ledge and a small lounging area at one end.
Plunge Pool
Ideal for: Cooling down, hydrotherapy, and compact relaxation zones
Why it works:
Plunge pools are perfect for creating a private oasis in a small backyard due to their depth and space-saving design. Despite their smaller surface area, they provide a luxurious, spa-like experience and are ideal for relaxation, particularly when equipped with massage jets or built-in seating. They also have lower maintenance and heating costs than larger pools.
Example: A 7x12 ft plunge pool tucked into a corner of the yard, complete with a raised spa wall, cascading waterfall, and underwater bench seating for a serene, high-end vibe.
Pools with Freeform Shapes
Ideal for: Natural landscapes, tropical aesthetics, and artistic layouts
Why it works:
Freeform pools deviate from traditional shapes, employing soft curves and irregular lines to mimic the natural flow of ponds or lagoons. This makes them very adaptable to different yard layouts and ideal for combining with gardens, rock features, or palm tree landscaping. Even in a small space, they create a relaxed, resort-like atmosphere.
A small, bean-shaped pool winding around a landscaped garden with stone accents, tropical plants, and built-in steps that double as seating.
Kidney-Shaped Pools
Ideal for: Retro design enthusiasts, multifunctional use in tight spaces.
Why it works:
Kidney-shaped pools are a nostalgic favorite that is still popular today due to their ability to naturally create shallow and deep zones within a small footprint. The curved indentation is an ideal location for benches or water features, and the overall footprint fits neatly into smaller yards.
Example: Consider a 12x24-foot kidney-shaped pool with a shallow tanning ledge in the indented area and a deeper swim zone on the other side, all surrounded by cozy pavers and minimalist landscaping.
Circular or Oval Pools
Ideal for: Casual swimmers, families, and above-ground installations.
Why it works:
Round and oval pools are a softer, more symmetrical alternative to angular designs, and are ideal for above-ground or centered layouts. These shapes encourage social interaction and are ideal for splash zones, float lounging, or simply relaxing with friends and family.
Example: A 15-foot oval above-ground pool installed in the center of a square yard, complete with a surrounding wooden deck and umbrella-shaded seating area, is ideal for weekend relaxation.
Design Tips for Small Pool Spaces
Even in a small yard, careful design decisions can make your pool area feel larger, more functional, and visually appealing. Here are some expert recommendations from our Daytona Beach pool consultants to help you make the most of your limited pool space.
Add a Built-In Bench or Tanning Ledge
Create a multifunctional area for relaxing, playing, or cooling off by adding a shallow tanning ledge or an in-pool bench. These features take up little space while greatly improving usability and comfort.
Use Clear or Frameless Fencing
Contact a Pool Fencing Company for glass or frameless pool fencing makes the area feel open and connected to the rest of the yard. It also provides safety without obstructing sightlines or making the space feel cramped.
Incorporate Vertical Water Features
A raised wall waterfall, or vertical fountain, adds luxury and beauty. It adds interest while minimizing floor space. It draws the eye upward, making the space appear more spacious and dynamic.
Select Lighter Pool Finishes
Pool interiors in light colors like sky blue, sand, or soft gray reflect more sunlight. This makes the water look brighter and more inviting. This simple design choice can visually enlarge the entire pool area.
Conclusion
Having limited space does not imply that your imagination is limited. With the right pool shape and expert design advice, your backyard can become the ideal spot for summer fun, relaxation, and family gatherings. There is something for everyone's space and style, from sleek rectangle pools to cozy plunge designs.
Collaborate with experienced swimming pool consultants and trusted pool builders in Daytona Beach, FL, who understand how to make big dreams a reality, even in small yards. Whether you're just getting started or ready to break ground, the time has come to move forward.
Contact us today to set up a consultation and start planning your dream pool.
