If you are reading this article is because you either want to build a pool or you are considering remodeling your existing one. The first and most important part of the pool to choose to start the design process is the shape. There are many different shapes, designs, and swimming pool features to choose from. The fun part of designing your custom inground gunite swimming pool is that you aren’t limited to just a square, rectangular or other prefabricated shapes, when building a concrete pool, there’s nothing set in stone, you can customize it however and whichever shape may work best for your yard.
In addition to designing your pool any shape that you like, you can also add any pool feature you like, allowing you to build your dream oasis, the possibilities are endless.
Freeform
Freeform pool shapes are the most space-friendly and popular pool shape. With a freeform shape, you can customize your pool’s shape in any way that works best for you and your yard. Free-form pools generally have more curves than other pool shapes, allowing you to build a truly unique oasis. If you are artistic, have a clear idea of what you want, or are looking to have a one of a kind shaped pool, a freeform pool would be the best choice for you.
Pros: Unique, works for any kind of space, more curves that allow other components to blend in such as landscapes, trees, decoration, furniture etc.
Cons: When not designed right, it can eat it too much swim space, coping pieces will have to be cut and more grout lines will show. A free form pool requires more detail than a straight line pool, which can lead to additional material cost and/or labor.
Rectangle
While rectangles are not the most creative pool shape, they are one of the most common and classic pool shapes. Most homeowners in Southern California are choosing rectangular pools over all of the choices because of the simplicity, elegance, modern and clean look. You can find this shape of pools in honeymoon suites and in penthouses on their balconies as well.
Pros: Savings on material costs compared to any free form pool, less grout lines and cuts, can fit on most spaces. Rectangle pools are the perfect shape for those modern homes looking for a clean look and a simple design. Because of their “straight lines” a rectangular pool provides ample space for children to play and to swim laps.
Cons: Are mainly used for modern properties due to having straight edges.
Kidney
Kidney shaped pools are a classic custom free-form pool, shaped like a kidney bean, round on both sides and curved inwards on one edge. The kidney pool shape is excellent for pools with added water features such as spas, waterfalls and grottos.
Pros: Works for any kind of space, more curves that allow other components to blend in such as landscapes, trees, decoration, furniture etc.
Cons: Kidney shape pools are usually no bigger than 90 feet in perimeter, a very large kidney can look a little odd. Custom coping pieces will have to be installed or straight pieces need to be cut, then more grout lines will show. A kidney shape pool requires more detail than a straight line pool, which can lead to additional material cost and/or labor.
Figure 8
Figure 8 shaped pools, taper a bit from the middle and are rounded on both ends. One of the best things about figure 8 shaped swimming pools is that you can feel the free flow of water. On sharp edges of a rectangular pools, the water tends to refract strongly after hitting the walls. The curves of this pool shape help the water to circulate instead of being refracted backward.
Pros: Feel the free flow of water, can work with most spaces.
Cons: A figure 8 shape pool requires more detail than a straight line pool, which can lead to additional material cost and/or labor.
L–Shaped
L-shaped pools are as impressive as the name. The vertical shank of the L is generally shorter and of smaller width, while the other part of the oasis is longer and has more breadth. This form of a pool is useful for courtyards with unique needs, most people that like L shape pools use the vertical shank of the L to install a baja step to not take away much swim space.
Pros: Clean look and lines, baja step and pool steps won’t take up swim space. Also, they work wonders when working with small backyards.
Cons: Are mainly used for modern properties due to having straight edges.
Greek and Roman
The shape of the Greek pool is famous for its spacious and beautiful design. Greek shaped pools are similar to rectangular shaped pools, but the corners are tilted at 45 ° like a kite or curved inwards. This form of a pool is suitable for larger areas and larger families, as it typically can accommodate more people at a time, and is best for big yards. Roman shaped pools are a large rectangular pool with domes that emerge outward on both sides. One of the domes usually has stairs to enter the oasis. This form is excellent for sunbathing since the stairs provide a rather large platform to relax on while in the water.
Pros: Elegant designs, can accommodate more people at at a time. Domes are usually used as baja step saving up swim space.
Cons: Corners require a lot more attention to detail and materials (waste due to cuts increases) which can lead to additional costs. Won’t work much for small backyards.