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July 8, 2024

7 Pool Shapes and Their Benefits for Your Pool Installation

By 2026, annual installations of in-ground swimming pools in North America are projected to hit 320,000 units. Installing a pool is one of the best ways to enhance your backyard as swimming is a low-impact cardiovascular exercise suitable for nearly everyone. However, choosing the right pool shape is crucial to ensuring your pool installation perfectly suits your needs and complements your outdoor space. With so many shapes to choose from, each offering unique benefits, it can be challenging to decide which one is right for you.

Here are seven popular pool shapes and the distinct advantages each brings to your pool installation in Danbury CT.
Rectangular Pools

1. Rectangular Pools

Rectangular pools have a clean, geometric shape with straight edges and right-angle corners. This classic design exudes a sleek and modern look, making it a popular choice for contemporary and traditional backyard settings. The simple lines of a rectangular pool make it easy to integrate with various landscaping and architectural styles.


Why Choose a Rectangular Pool

  • Ideal for Swimming Laps: Rectangular pools are perfect for swimming laps due to their long, straight edges and uniform shape for your pool installation. This design provides a clear, uninterrupted path for swimmers, making it ideal for those who use their pool for exercise and fitness routines. The consistent width and length ensure a smooth swimming experience without the need for constant direction changes.
  • Easy to Cover and Maintain: The straightforward shape of rectangular pools makes them easy to cover with standard pool covers, which helps maintain water cleanliness and temperature. This ease of covering also translates to simpler maintenance routines, as pool cleaners and automated systems can efficiently clean the entire surface. Homeowners can spend less time on upkeep and more time enjoying their pool.
  • Versatile and Space-Efficient: Rectangular pools fit well in a variety of backyard sizes and shapes, maximizing available space. Their versatile design allows for numerous customization options, such as adding steps, tanning ledges, and built-in seating. This makes rectangular pools a practical choice for both small and large yards, as it provides ample swimming space and enhances the overall backyard aesthetic.


2. Freeform Pools

Freeform pools are characterized by their irregular, flowing shapes that mimic natural bodies of water. These pools have smooth, curving lines and can be designed to fit into unique backyard landscapes. The organic design of a freeform pool creates a relaxed, natural look, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more laid-back aesthetic.


 Why Choose a Freeform Pool for Your Pool Installation

  • Natural, Relaxed Aesthetic: Freeform pools are perfect for creating a backyard oasis that mimics the look of natural ponds and lagoons for your pool installation. The gentle curves and flowing lines blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, providing a serene environment. This design choice can transform your pool installation into a peaceful retreat, ideal for relaxation and escape from the daily grind.
  • Flexible Design Options: The irregular shape of freeform pools offers flexibility in design, allowing homeowners to incorporate various features such as rock formations, waterfalls, and lush plantings. This capability makes it easy to create a unique, personalized pool that complements your backyard's natural beauty. Freeform pools can also be tailored to fit into unusual or challenging spaces, making them a versatile option for many homeowners.
  • Enhanced Landscaping Integration: Freeform pools integrate beautifully with diverse landscaping styles, from tropical to rustic. Their organic shapes can be surrounded by natural stone, plants, and other elements that enhance the pool's aesthetic appeal. This not only improves the visual appeal of your pool installation but also creates a harmonious and cohesive outdoor living space.


3. Round Pools

Round pools feature smooth, rounded edges and an elongated shape that combines the best aspects of rectangular and circular designs. For example, a round pool can fit seamlessly into smaller backyards, providing a space-efficient option while maintaining a stylish look. This shape offers a soft, elegant appearance that fits well in various backyard settings, from traditional to modern landscapes. 


Why Choose a Round Pool 

  • Great for Swimming and Playing: Round pools provide a generous swimming area that is perfect for both swimming laps and recreational play. The elongated shape allows swimmers to move freely without the interruptions of sharp corners. This makes round pools ideal for families who enjoy both exercise and fun in their pool installation.
  • Aesthetic Appeal with Soft Edges: The smooth, rounded edges of round pools create a visually appealing and inviting look. This shape elevates the appeal of any backyard, as it blends seamlessly with various landscape designs. Whether you prefer a modern or traditional aesthetic, a round pool can enhance the overall appearance of your pool installation.
  • Space-Efficient for Narrower Yards: Round pools are excellent for maximizing space in narrower or more confined backyard areas. Their elongated shape allows for a large swimming area while fitting comfortably into tighter spaces. This makes round pools a practical choice for homeowners looking to make the most of their available space during their pool installation.


4. Kidney-Shaped Pools

Kidney-shaped pools have a distinctive curve with an indentation on one side, resembling the shape of a kidney bean. The gentle curve and soft lines of a kidney-shaped pool provide a harmonious blend with the surrounding landscape. For example, placing a kidney-shaped pool next to a patio or deck can create a cozy, intimate setting for your family. 


Why Choose a Kidney-Shaped Pool

  • Natural Division for Shallow and Deep Ends: The kidney shape naturally divides the pool into distinct areas, making it easy to create separate zones for shallow and deep ends. This division is perfect for families with children, as it provides a safe area for kids to play while allowing for a deeper section for swimming and diving. 
  • Aesthetically Pleasing and Unique: Kidney-shaped pools offer a visually interesting design that breaks away from traditional pool shapes. This distinctive shape adds character and charm to your pool installation, making it a standout feature in your outdoor space. Adding a waterfall or spillover spa to the indentation further enhances the pool’s visual appeal and functionality
  • Maximizes Swimming Area While Saving Space: The kidney shape is highly efficient in terms of space utilization. It provides a large swimming area while fitting into irregularly shaped or smaller yards. This makes kidney-shaped pools an ideal option for homeowners looking to maximize their swimming space without sacrificing too much of their backyard during their pool installation.


5. L-Shaped Pools

L-shaped pools have a distinctive right-angle design that forms an "L" shape. This innovative shape provides two distinct sections, offering versatility and functionality for various activities. The angular design of L-shaped pools makes them a practical and stylish choice for many backyard settings.


Why Choose an L-Shaped Pool 

  • Provides Separate Areas for Different Activities: The L-shaped design naturally divides the pool into two sections, creating distinct areas for different activities. One section can be used for swimming laps or diving, while the other can serve as a shallow play area or lounging space. This separation is ideal for families who want to accommodate multiple activities within their pool installation, ensuring everyone has a designated area for enjoyment.
  • Maximizes Use of Corner Spaces: L-shaped pools are perfect for making efficient use of corner spaces in your backyard. The right-angle design fits snugly into corners, maximizing the available space without encroaching on the rest of your yard. This efficient use of space makes L-shaped pools a smart choice for homeowners looking to optimize their pool installation within a limited area.
  • Adds a Modern Touch to the Backyard: The angular, contemporary design of L-shaped pools adds a modern aesthetic to any backyard. This shape complements various architectural styles and landscaping designs, providing a sleek and stylish look. Adding features like a vanishing edge or LED lighting to the pool enhances its sleek and stylish look.
Roman and Grecian Pools

6. Roman and Grecian Pools

Roman and Grecian pools are characterized by their elegant, classical designs inspired by ancient architecture. Roman pools typically feature rounded ends with a central, often grand staircase, while Grecian pools are known for their rectangular shape with cut corners and intricate detailing. Both styles exude a sense of luxury and timeless sophistication, making them ideal for upscale backyard settings.


Why Choose a Roman or Grecian Pool

  • Timeless and Sophisticated Appearance: Roman and Grecian pools offer a refined and elegant look that never goes out of style. Their classical design elements, such as rounded ends and cut corners, provide a sophisticated and luxurious aesthetic. This timeless appeal makes these pools a perfect choice for homeowners who want their pool installation to stand the test of time in terms of style and elegance.
  • Symmetrical Design Adds a Touch of Luxury: The symmetrical and balanced design of Roman and Grecian pools creates a visually pleasing and harmonious look. These pools often feature grand entrances, such as wide staircases, that enhance their luxurious feel. The symmetry and attention to detail in these designs make them ideal for creating a high-end, resort-like atmosphere in your backyard pool installation.
  • Perfect for Formal Gardens and Upscale Homes: Roman and Grecian pools blend seamlessly with formal gardens and upscale home designs. Their classic shapes and elegant details complement manicured landscapes, ornate statues, and formal flower beds. This integration with luxurious surroundings makes these pools an excellent choice for homeowners looking to elevate their pool installation with a touch of classical grandeur.


7. Figure-8 Pools

Figure-8 pools feature a unique shape that combines two rounded ends connected by a narrow center, creating the appearance of a figure eight. This design offers a visually interesting and balanced look that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The smooth curves of a figure-8 pool provide a playful and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular choice for many homeowners who want to stand out. 


Why Choose a Figure-8 Pool 

  • Combines the Best of Oval and Kidney Shapes: Figure-8 pools offer the advantages of both oval and kidney-shaped pools, providing ample swimming space with a natural division of areas. The dual rounded ends create separate zones that can be used for different purposes, such as a deep end for diving and a shallow end for lounging. 
  • Natural Separation for Different Swimming Activities: The unique shape of figure-8 pools allows for a natural separation between various swimming activities. One end can be designated for active swimming and exercise, while the other can serve as a relaxation and play area. For example, one end of the pool can be designated for shallow lounging, with built-in seating and umbrella stands, while the other end can be deeper for swimming and diving. 
  • Enhances Backyard Aesthetics: The graceful curves and balanced design of figure-8 pools create a visually appealing focal point in any backyard. This shape adds a sense of harmony and fluidity to the landscape, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space. A figure-8 pool can transform your pool installation into an eye-catching feature that elevates the beauty and enjoyment of your backyard.
Figure-8 Pools

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best material for constructing a pool?

The best material for constructing a pool depends on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and maintenance considerations. Common materials include concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl liners. Concrete pools are highly customizable and durable, allowing for various shapes and finishes. Fiberglass pools are pre-fabricated, offering low maintenance and quick installation. Vinyl liner pools are budget-friendly and provide a smooth surface, but they may require liner replacements over time.

How much does it cost to install a pool?

The cost of installing a pool varies widely based on the type of pool, size, materials, and additional features such as heating, lighting, and landscaping. On average, a basic inground pool installation can range from $35,000 to $65,000. Custom designs, high-end materials, and luxury features can increase costs significantly, often exceeding $100,000. It's important to obtain detailed quotes from multiple contractors to understand the full scope of expenses. Additionally, consider ongoing maintenance costs when budgeting for a pool.

How long does it take to install a pool?

The time required to install a pool depends on the type of pool and the complexity of the design. A basic inground pool installation typically takes between 6 to 12 weeks from start to finish. Factors such as weather conditions, permitting, and customization can extend this timeline. Concrete pools generally take longer due to curing times and intricate construction processes. Fiberglass pools can be installed more quickly, often within a few weeks, since they are pre-fabricated.

What kind of maintenance is required for a pool?

Pool maintenance involves regular cleaning, balancing chemicals, checking equipment, and ensuring proper water circulation. Weekly tasks include skimming debris, vacuuming the pool floor, and testing water chemistry to maintain safe and clean water. Monthly or seasonal maintenance might involve more thorough cleanings, filter changes, and inspections of pool equipment. Proper maintenance helps prevent issues such as algae growth, equipment failure, and water imbalance. Hiring a professional pool maintenance service can ensure that your pool remains in optimal condition.

Can I add a heating system to my pool?

Yes, you can add a heating system to your pool to extend the swimming season and enhance comfort. Options for pool heating include gas heaters, electric heat pumps, and solar heating systems. Gas heaters are effective for quickly raising water temperature but can be costly to operate. Electric heat pumps are energy-efficient and maintain consistent temperatures but may have higher upfront costs. Solar heating systems are environmentally friendly and have low operating costs, although their efficiency depends on local climate conditions.

Transform Your Outdoor Space with Expert Pool Installation with FJV Construction in Danbury, CT!

Ready to turn your backyard into a stunning oasis? FJV Construction in Danbury, CT, specializes in custom pool installations that bring your vision to life. Our expert team will guide you through every step, from selecting the perfect pool shape to adding luxurious features and landscaping. Don’t wait to enjoy the benefits of a beautiful, well-designed pool—contact FJV Construction today for a consultation and let us create the backyard paradise you’ve always dreamed of. 

Transform your outdoor space with the trusted professionals at FJV Construction and dive into luxury and relaxation this season! Call us now!



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