Are you looking for inspiration for your new backyard pool?
After being in the business of fiberglass pools for many years, we would like to help you get your project off on the right foot.
But if you're like most people, the prospect of finding the perfect pool can seem daunting.
Well, you're in luck, because today we're going to walk you through a simple step-by-step process to finding the right pool shape, size, and features for your backyard space.
Let's jump right in!
Step One: Determine Your Pool Size
Wondering how to choose the size of your pool? Here are some questions to consider:
- How much space do I have to work with?
- How many people does the pool need to accommodate?
- How do I plan to use the swimming pool?
And here are some pool size guidelines:
- The average pool size in America is roughly 15'x30' although sizes vary greatly from region to region.
- The smallest pools are usually about 10'x20' and the largest are typically around 40' long.
There are three types of inground pools: fiberglass, vinyl liner, and concrete.
Vinyl liner and concrete pools are more flexible from a design perspective because the shape and size can be customized.
However, the vast majority of concrete and vinyl liner pools installed in America are "cookie cutter" designs that are selected from a brochure or catalogue.
Fiberglass pools, because they are constructed from an existing mold and shipped to the job site in one piece, are not customizable. However, because of their beauty, low maintenance benefit, durability, and speedy installation, a rapidly increasing number of people across the country feel that fiberglass pools are a good fit for their family.
Consequently, the popularity of fiberglass pools has tripled over the past decade.
Step Two: Determine Your Pool Shape
In terms of pool shapes, the sky is the limit, but there are several predominant styles to choose from that constitute the majority of pools installed today.
Rectangular Pool Design
The most popular pool shape of all time is the tried and true rectangle.
Its basic geometric shape and proportion make it a fitting style for most outdoor spaces.
If you are considering a fiberglass pool, you may be happy to know that we at River Pools have many rectangular designs ranging from 10'x20' to 16'x40' to choose from. Feel free to check out our pool designs if you're interested.
Freeform Pool Design
A freeform pool is basically a non-linear pool with flowing lines, and they can take virtually any shape.
Some of our most popular freeform pool designs are the I Series and C Series.
Lagoon Pool Design
A lagoon design is a freeform pool with an enhanced serpentine shape.
Thursday Pools' Wellspring design is a great example of a lagoon-style pool.
Roman End Pool Design
A roman end is a squared end with a centered arch.
This classic design is popular in many different settings.
Our L36 model is a great example of a roman end pool design.
Vanishing Edge Design Pools
A vanishing edge pool (also called an infinity pool), is where one or more sides of the pool are lowered so water can spill over the pool lip, giving the appearance of a vanishing waterline.
Thursday Pools' Infinity model is a vanishing edge fiberglass pool.
Step 3: Select Special Pool Features
Perhaps there are certain pool features you'd prefer to integrate into your backyard design such as a tanning ledge, attached spa, or water feature.
Check out our pool options and accessories guide to learn about neat pool features and see how they can fit into your backyard oasis.
Well, we hope this has helped you determine which swimming pool design might be best for you. If you are in the process of determining your pool budget, you may want to check out our inground pool pricing guide. As always, if you have any questions or comments feel free to leave them below.
If you think a fiberglass pool could be an option for your family and would like to speak to an independent installer, fill out this short form, and we will connect you with one in your area. Want to know how much your fiberglass pool might cost? Try out our pool pricing calculator below.
Want to see about how much that cost will be with all your favorite pool accessories?
Use our Design and Price Tool to walk through your options and approximate price!
If you are still looking for the right inground pool for your home, download our free ebook below which breaks down the key differences between the three main inground pool types. Happy swimming!
Up Next:
Everything You Need To Consider About Inground Swimming Pool Designs
Small Pools 101: Shapes, Dimensions, Features And Other Considerations
Editor's note: This blog article was updated on April 17, 2019.
Editor's note: This article was updated December 14, 2023.