Swimming Pool Designs On a hot summer day, nothing is as refreshingas a swimming pool. Although often seen as a luxury, they can servemany functions and be well worth the splurge in the right area. Theoriginal pool had a small spa inside the main pool footprint. Wemoved the spa outside and to the east end of the rectangular pool,making it larger and surrounded by a tanning shelf. Entire yard wasripped out and redesigned with new cement, turf and a living/diningpavilion. Besides being a nice place to relax and cool off, poolscan add much-needed visual interest to your yard. -What are myswimming pool design options? Location, size and desired activitywill determine which pool designs might work best for you. If youlive somewhere that’s warm only four months out of the year, anoutdoor pool might not be worth the splurge — though an indoor onemight. Regardless of whether you go with indoor or outdoor, thesize of the space will dictate the shape of the pool. Carefullyconsider how much space you want dedicate to the entire project; ifyou start adding extras, like a pool deck and specialtylandscaping, your yard-to-pool ratio can quickly become unbalanced.With a long and narrow space, look for rectangular lap pool designideas that might fit well; wider areas will give you more freedomto have a specialty shape, which means the options are endless.Similarly, various installation techniques are more suited tocertain lifestyles. In-ground swimming pools are a major(potentially lifetime) commitment. Construction, maintenance andenergy bills add up, so make sure you’re ready to take that plunge.If you aren’t ready for that sort of commitment, consider analternative, such as an above-ground pool or a hot tub. Theabove-ground options can be set up when the weather permits, so youstill get to enjoy the warm summer months without sacrificing youryard year round. Make sure you have proper storage for the unitwhen it’s not in use though. Are you one of the many who see morecold than warm weather? A hot tub will surely see more more use andis not quite such a daunting commitment, both financially andmaintenance-wise. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whetheryou think the costs and upkeep are worth the time you will spendenjoying it. -What materials should I incorporate into my pooldesign? The quality of your materials can easily dictate the lifeof your swimming pool or spa. Although vinyl is often the cheapestoption, it also is the least durable, so it will need to bereplaced more frequently. Concrete and fiberglass swimming pooldesigns are popular, sturdy options, while metal above ground unitslast longer than plastic ones. To liven up blah concrete orfiberglass, consider adding a colorful mosaic tile border or aninteresting stone water feature. Some of the best pool ideasincorporate seamlessly into the landscape design by usingnatural-looking materials, or by using an infinity edge. Regardlessof what you do, the short-term costs shouldn't be your onlyconsideration; consider long-term maintenance and repair costs aswell, like replacing broken tiles or fixing leaks and cracks. -Whatswimming pool extras and accessories can I add? There are plenty ofswimming pool ideas that will help magnify their fun factor.Install a diving board, slide or small waterfall to make swimmingmore enjoyable, and add floats, toys and loungers for ultimaterelaxation. A cabana can help with entertaining during parties,while an outdoor shower and changing station come in handy onceyou're ready to head indoors. Adding ample seating and sunprotection, like chaise lounges and umbrellas, will ensure everyonecan enjoy the pool, even if they aren’t in it. Browse pictures ofpools to see how others have enhanced their setups, thenincorporate your favorite ideas into your own new build or remodel.