Australians love the outdoors, which is why so many Sydneysiders choose to install a swimming pool on their property. We’re blessed with a great climate, and our culture is built around a love of the world around us. But if you’re considering a swimming pool for your backyard, it’s important to know some of the trends for Sydney pool designs. 

We’ve come a long way since the days when all fibreglass swimming pools were practically the same size and shape. Today, you can choose from all sorts of materials such as concrete, fibreglass and natural materials like stone. Multiple finishes are available for different parts of your pool, and you can even have one custom-designed to suit your available space. 

So, without any further delay, let’s jump into some of the top pool design trends for Sydney homes, and why they’re much more than a passing phase.

 

The factors driving modern pool trends

When it comes to modern pool trends, there are several factors that can influence the decisions homeowners make. Naturally, people always want beautiful, aesthetically pleasing and functional pools. However, there are many different ways to achieve that and everybody’s needs are different. Trends often occur because something becomes wildly popular, but there are also a range of key factors that drive these trends. In this section, we’re going to discuss some of the reasons for a shift in the way we think about the humble backyard swimming pool.

 

Cost

Not many people have an endless budget, which is why people need to consider the costs when purchasing a pool. Firstly, you need to consider the upfront cost of the pool. Materials, construction and finishes all contribute to your initial outlay and the prices can vary depending on the type of pool you choose. 

Secondly, the modern market doesn’t want swimming pools that will cost a fortune to run and maintain. Homeowners want durable, reliable, long-lasting pools that are essentially self-maintaining. Like anything, the ongoing costs are just as important to consider as the purchase and installation price.

 

Sustainability

Most people are now aware of the need to be more environmentally friendly, because sustainability is a huge issue for the modern world. Traditionally, swimming pools require a lot of water and electricity, which isn’t the best thing for our environment (or your back pocket). This shift towards eco-friendly pool designs means more sustainable materials, energy-efficient components, solar heating systems and reduced water consumption.

 

Available space

If you remember 20 or 30 years ago, the Australian dream was a nice house, big backyard and plenty of room for a swimming pool and entertaining area. As housing becomes an issue across the country, plots of land have become smaller, or there are now multiple units where a single house used to be. This reduction in available space requires homeowners to carefully consider the types of swimming pools they install. No doubt, the trend of lap pools and plunge pools is heavily influenced by the amount of space people have for a pool.

 

Getting more from your pool

Value for money is crucial when making any type of home improvement. One way to maximise your dollar is to get the absolute best out of your swimming pool. So, rather than having a standalone pool in the middle of the backyard, homeowners now want to incorporate outdoor entertaining areas and beautiful landscapes to enhance the entire experience. The inclusion of spas and saunas around the pool is also becoming popular as consumers discover new ways to maximise their outdoor areas.

 

The top trends in pool design for Sydney homes

Now that we understand some of the drivers behind modern pool trends, it’s time to explore some of them in more detail. Of course, not everybody will want to incorporate all of these trends into their pool, but they certainly serve as a good starting point when deciding what type of pool you’d like at your home. 

From environmentally-friendly designs to maximising your available space, here are some of the top trends for Sydney pool designs in 2024.

 

Eco-friendly and sustainable designs

How can we make swimming pools more sustainable? You’d be surprised to know there are countless ways to improve your pool’s sustainability profile. Mineral pools are a popular choice because they use no added chemicals, reduce water waste by around 12,000 litres per year and include an eco-friendly pool pump that reduces energy consumption by 80%. Homeowners can also consider pool covers to reduce evaporation, solar pool heating and the use of natural materials during pool construction.

 

Tanning ledges

Tanning ledges are known by many other names, such as sun shelves, Baja shelves or shallow ledges. Essentially, they all provide the same function, which is a shallow area of the pool where people can relax. Incorporating a tanning ledge gives your pool a luxurious feel and provides the perfect space for catching some rays, reading a book, or just relaxing in the sun. These shallow ledges are also a safe space where young children can get used to the water. You can either sit and cool off in the shallow water, or even use chairs and sun lounges on the shelf. Overall, tanning ledges add a touch of elegance and offer great functionality.

 

Expert pool lighting

Pools aren’t just to be enjoyed during daylight hours, especially in the warmer parts of Australia. But without proper pool lighting, you can pretty much discount the idea of swimming at night. People want more from their outdoor spaces, and that means being able to use them for more hours of the day. Professionally designed and installed lighting inside and around the pool gives you more flexibility with how you use your pool. Are you having a gathering and do your guests fancy an evening dip? With energy-efficient LED pool lighting, you can enjoy your pool at all hours of day and night.

 

Lap pools

A lap pool is a long, narrow swimming pool design that’s perfect for daily exercise. Due to the lack of available space in many Sydney backyards, lap pools are becoming an increasingly popular choice. Due to their shape, lap pools can be installed in tight spaces where larger swimming pools simply wouldn’t fit. Lap pools are extremely functional for fitness enthusiasts, but they also add a sleek, modern look to any outdoor space.

 

Plunge pools

Much like lap pools, plunge pools are smaller in size but high in functionality. You won’t be swimming laps or playing volleyball in a plunge pool, but it’s still a great place to cool off and relax during a long, hot summer. Plunge pools are usually deeper, but with smaller dimensions, making them a practical choice for Sydney homes lacking in outdoor space. You can even add features like built-in seating, hydrotherapy jets and more.

 

Custom pool shapes

We just mentioned some of the smaller swimming pool types that are becoming popular, but what about odd-shaped pools? Well, it depends on your definition of ‘odd’, but many homeowners have turned to non-traditional pool shapes in order to maximise their outdoor space. Whether it’s an ‘L’ shape or something that blends more seamlessly with your outdoor area, there are virtually no restrictions on swimming pool shapes. Blue Haven offers customised pool designs, meaning you can get the perfect fit for your yard.

 

Integrating the natural landscape

While this trend is more common with mineral pools, there is an increasing desire in the marketplace to have a more natural look and feel around the pool. This can include incorporating natural elements such as rocks, timber decking and professional landscaping. Many of these stunning, natural swimming pools feel like a resort, offering a serene and aesthetically pleasing environment where you can relax. Many people even incorporate features like waterfalls for added effect.

 

Pools and entertaining areas combined

Remember we mentioned that people want to get more from their swimming pools? That’s why it’s becoming popular to see swimming pools surrounded by covered outdoor entertaining areas. From outdoor kitchens and dining to swim-up bars, fire pits and tanning ledges, there are countless ways to bring your favourite outdoor activities together. Provided you follow the appropriate pool fencing and safety rules, you can create a multi-functional outdoor space the whole family will love.

                                                                                                           

Want to discuss pool design trends with the experts?

With over 40 years of industry experience, Blue Haven Pools has built a reputation for excellence. Unlike other swimming pool retailers, we offer a completely personalised service. Pool designs are tailored to your specific needs, and we can custom-make both concrete and fibreglass pools. Our skilled swimming pool installers make safety a priority and adhere to all local regulations for swimming pool construction. When you choose Blue Haven, you get a hassle-free experience and a long-lasting, durable swimming pool that enhances your home and lifestyle. Contact us today to explore our amazing range of pools and spas.

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