Planning a Swimming Pool Design

If you're planning to install a swimming pool on your property, you should know that swimming pool designs are practically unlimited. You can get a pool in almost any size, style, shape or design.

The first things you need to think of in terms of pool design are the purpose and size of your pool. If you have a very limited space, your pool design options will be more limited. But even when working in a small space, you have a lot more options than the same boring square or rectangular swimming pool most people have.

The purpose of your swimming pool may seem to be a no brainer - it's to swim in - but not all pools are limited to just plain swimming. A lap pool for instance gives competitive swimmers a place to practice their strokes and to stay in shape. A "stay in place" or "swim in place" pool allows swimmers to swim against a constant current - perfect for training, aerobic exercise and physical rehabilitation.

Of course, the main purpose for a home swimming pool is relaxation. Pool design that incorporates a hot tub with relaxing jets and a heated pool with plenty of poolside seating is the perfect way to relax away the stresses of everyday life. Many of these swimming pool designs include a wading area that is partially blocked from the deeper areas of the pool and is perfect for children who haven't yet learned to swim.

The size of the area you have to build your pool in will be the next main consideration in choosing a pool design. Very few people have the space for an Olympic sized swimming pool in their backyard, but many people want a swimming pool for exercise. Swim in place pools are perfect for serious swimmers with a small area for a pool, since they can be installed in a space approximately 7' x 14' and as shallow as approximately 40 inches. The swim in place pool design uses a jet system that provides fully adjustable current for different swimming strokes, speed and difficulty levels

Size may also have in impact on the shape of your swimming pool. Very small spaces can be taken advantage of by designing a freeform pool that fits within the shape determined by the landscape. Square, rectangular, bean-shaped and oval pools - although very common - aren't the only pool designs available to the creative swimming pool designer. Truly freeform swimming pools aren't limited to general geometric designs, but can follow the curves and lines of your yard.

The time spent planning the design of your swimming pool will pay off - insuring you get a pool perfect for your space and your purpose for wanting a swimming pool.