Your swimming pool is more than just a place to cool off on a hot day—it’s the centre of your outdoor space. With the right changes, you can make it look modern, stylish, and relaxing. Whether you want luxury, simple style, or a natural feel, a few smart upgrades can completely change how your pool looks and feels.
With the right updates, your pool can become a stunning feature that enhances your entire backyard. From cool lights and beautiful tiles to waterfalls and infinity edges, this guide will give you 30 great swimming pool remodelling ideas for your next pool makeover.
Design Upgrades for a Modern Pool Remodel
First of all, we’re talking about how even small changes can make your pool look modern and beautiful. Here are some easy and useful design ideas to help improve the look of your backyard.
Resurfacing with Textured Finishes
If your pool surface looks old or damaged, resurfacing is one of the best affordable swimming pool remodelling ideas. You can pick materials like pebble, quartz, or polished marble, which are not slippery and look great. These materials are strong and improve your pool’s appearance.
For something more durable, you can choose gunite resurfacing. It allows you to create different pool shapes while making the surface last longer. This update will completely change how your pool looks and feels. Resurfacing is a great way to make your pool look new again.
Adding Mosaic Tile Accents
Mosaic tiles are a great option for pool redesigns. You can place them on the edges, floor, or even create designs on the walls. Glass mosaic tiles shine in the water and sunlight, while stone or ceramic tiles offer a more natural look.
Whether you prefer bold patterns or simple designs, mosaic tiles can make your pool stand out and look unique. They’re a stylish way to add personality and charm to your pool, making it a beautiful focal point in your outdoor space.
Installing an Infinity Edge
An infinity edge creates a luxurious, modern look, ideal for upscale pool remodels. It’s perfect for locations with scenic views, like a lake or the ocean. This design is popular in contemporary pools, offering a serene, high-end vibe, similar to a luxury hotel pool.
The water seems to disappear at the edge, creating a stunning visual effect that enhances the beauty of your outdoor space. An infinity edge is a great way to add elegance and make your pool stand out.
Upgrading to LED Lighting
LED lights are one of the easiest and most effective pool remodelling tips for evening ambience. They last a long time, stay cool, and are energy-efficient. Available in various colors, these lights can be set to change colors or even sync with music for a lively atmosphere. Some models can be controlled through an app on your phone for easy adjustments. Whether you’re looking to create a relaxing vibe or a fun party atmosphere, LED lights can transform your pool into a stunning feature for night-time enjoyment.
Using Natural Stone for a Rustic Look
Natural stone can make your pool area feel calm and cozy. Stones like flagstone, slate, and travertine are strong and look beautiful. They work well around pool edges, decks, or even waterfalls. These stones match nicely with plants and help create a peaceful, spa-like space.
They are not only pretty but also last a long time, even in wet areas. Whether your pool is above ground or in the ground, using natural stone is a smart and stylish pool remodelling idea.
Adding a Glass Wall
Glass walls are a popular new idea in pool design. They make your pool look clean and modern. A glass wall lets you see outside easily, whether you have a garden, patio, or beach view. It looks stylish and also helps keep people safe.
Glass is very strong and doesn’t break easily. It’s also simple to clean and lasts for many years. Adding a glass wall can make your pool feel more open, bright, and fancy, just like a high-end resort or hotel pool.
Add a Fire Feature to the Pool
Adding fire features like fire bowls or fire pits near the pool makes your space look amazing. The bright flames next to the water create a cool and beautiful contrast. They give off light and warmth, which is great for relaxing by the pool in the evening.
Fire features also make your pool area feel fancy and stylish. The mix of fire and water looks really special and can turn a simple backyard pool into something that feels like a luxury getaway.
Install a Poolside Water Wall
A poolside water wall is a stylish and modern design where water flows gently down a tall wall into the pool. It looks beautiful and creates a relaxing sound, like a small waterfall. This calming water noise helps make your pool area feel peaceful and soothing.
A water wall also adds a fancy touch to your pool, making it look more special. If you want a quiet, relaxing space to enjoy, a water wall is a great choice for your next pool upgrade.
Enhancing the Deck with Modern Pavers
New decking is one of the most practical pool remodelling tips. The space around your pool matters just as much as the pool itself. Modern pavers made from concrete, porcelain, or stone are great choices. They’re strong, non-slip, and easy to clean, making them safe and low-maintenance.
These materials can handle sun, rain, and foot traffic without damage. With many colors and styles to choose from, you can create a pool deck that looks stylish, feels safe, and gives you a great place to relax.
Incorporating Free-Form Shapes
You don’t have to settle for a basic rectangle. Free-form pools with curves, soft edges, or lagoon-style shapes look more natural and welcoming. They blend beautifully with gardens and give your backyard a relaxed, tropical feel. These designs can include built-in benches, waterfalls, or shallow lounge areas.
Free-form pools offer flexibility, making them a great choice for both large and small yards. Their smooth, flowing lines create a more custom look, turning your pool into a fun and peaceful escape that fits your outdoor space perfectly.
Adding Greenery for a Natural Touc
Adding plants around your pool makes the area feel fresh, lively, and more relaxing. Tropical plants, flowering bushes, or easy-care succulents can soften the space and create a natural, beautiful setting. They also provide shade and privacy, and help clean the air, turning your poolside into a peaceful escape.
Choose plants that match your local weather so they grow well with little effort. This simple upgrade boosts the look and comfort of your pool area, giving it a calm, inviting vibe that’s easy to enjoy year-round.
Functional Pool Remodelling Ideas for a Smarter, Safer, and More Efficient Pool
Next, let’s talk about making your pool more functional and easier to enjoy. Remodelling your pool isn’t just about appearances. These pool remodelling tips focus on efficiency, convenience, and safety. Whether you’re looking to save energy, simplify maintenance, or add safety features, these upgrades will make your pool smarter and more enjoyable every day.
Add Smart Pool Technology for Easy Control
Take full control of your pool with smart technology. A smart pool system lets you manage lights, water temperature, filtration, and chemical levels from your smartphone or tablet—anytime, anywhere.
These systems save time and energy by automating routine tasks and can even send alerts when your pool needs attention. With less manual work and more automation, you’ll spend less time managing and more time relaxing, making pool maintenance easier and more efficient.
Upgrade to Energy-Saving Pumps and Heaters
If your equipment is outdated, upgrading to energy-efficient pumps and heaters can lower electricity bills and reduce noise. Variable-speed pumps adjust their power based on demand, making them more efficient than traditional models.
Pairing them with a modern heat pump keeps the water warm without high costs. Many of these upgrades qualify for energy rebates, providing savings both now and in the future. This is a smart choice for improving your pool’s efficiency while saving money over time.
Use Solar Panels for Eco-Friendly Heating
Solar heaters are eco-friendly and one of the best affordable swimming pool remodelling ideas, especially in sunny regions. Solar pool heating systems use energy from the sun to warm your water naturally.
As water passes through rooftop solar panels, it gets heated and flows back into the pool. It’s a cost-effective system, especially in sunny regions, and can extend your swimming season. Over time, solar heating reduces electricity use and helps lower your carbon footprint.
Install an Automatic Pool Cover for Safety and Cleanliness
An automatic pool cover provides convenience, safety, and cleanliness. With just the push of a button, it rolls out to protect your pool. It prevents accidental falls by keeping children and pets safe, blocks leaves and debris, reduces water evaporation, and helps retain heat.
Some covers even offer smart controls, allowing you to open or close them from your phone. This makes maintaining your pool easier and ensures it stays safe and clean with minimal effort.
Switch to a Saltwater Filtration System
Say goodbye to harsh chlorine smells and constant chemical handling. A saltwater filtration system uses natural salt to generate chlorine, keeping your pool clean with less effort. Saltwater pools are gentler on the skin, eyes, and hair.
While the initial setup cost is higher, the system requires fewer chemicals over time, making it a more cost-effective and comfortable choice in the long run. It’s a great option for those looking to enjoy a cleaner, more pleasant swimming experience.
Add Built-In Pool Cleaning Systems
Cleaning your pool doesn’t have to be a chore. Built-in cleaning systems use pop-up jets or rotating heads that automatically sweep dirt and debris toward the drain.
These systems are installed during renovation and work silently in the background. You can even customize them to clean harder-to-reach areas like steps and corners. The result? A cleaner pool with less daily maintenance.
Improve Drainage and Plumbing Systems
Upgrading your pool’s plumbing and drainage may not be flashy, but it’s essential for long-term function and safety. Replacing old plumbing with modern PVC pipes improves water flow and reduces leaks.
Adding trench or channel drains around the deck prevents standing water and reduces the risk of slips. These behind-the-scenes updates protect your pool area and lower future repair costs, ensuring your pool stays in good condition for years.
Enhance Safety with Modern Pool Fencing
Safety should always come first, especially if you have children or pets. Modern pool fencing options offer a mix of protection and style. When choosing a pool fence, you have options like clear glass panels for an open view or classic aluminum or wrought iron for a timeless look.
Whichever style you select, make sure the fence includes self-closing, self-latching gates, a minimum height that meets local safety codes, and a non-climbable design for extra protection. A well-chosen fence enhances both safety and the overall appearance of your backyard, making it an essential feature for your pool area.
Add Non-Slip Surfaces Around the Pool
Wet poolside areas can be slippery and unsafe. Upgrading to non-slip decking helps make the space safer while still looking good. You can use materials like textured concrete, slip-resistant tiles, or rubber coatings for better grip.
If you don’t want to replace your current deck, you can apply anti-slip treatments instead. These simple changes lower the risk of slipping and falling without taking away from your pool’s style. It’s a smart upgrade that adds both safety and comfort to your poolside experience.
Install a Pool Alarm System for Extra Protection
Pool alarms offer an extra layer of safety by alerting you when something or someone enters the pool unexpectedly. There are different types to suit your needs. Surface wave alarms detect ripples on the water, while subsurface alarms sense changes in water pressure.
Gate alarms go off when someone opens the pool gate, and wearable alarms for children trigger if they fall into the water. Many of these alarms can even connect to your smartphone for instant alerts. They’re easy to install, subtle in appearance, and an effective way to help keep your pool area safe.
Luxury Pool Upgrades to Elevate Your Space
Once your pool is smart, safe, and efficient, it’s time to make it stunning. Luxury upgrades take your pool from simply functional to extraordinary. Whether you want to entertain guests, enjoy peaceful evenings, or create a backyard oasis that feels like a private resort, these upgrades will enhance both style and experience.
Swim-Up Bar for Built-In Entertainment
Imagine sipping your favorite drink without ever leaving the water. A swim-up bar combines fun and convenience, perfect for hosting pool parties or enjoying a lazy afternoon. You can add submerged stools for seating, durable countertops, and even a shaded canopy to make it feel like a resort.
Besides elevating your lifestyle, this upgrade boosts your home’s visual appeal and value. Customize it to match your aesthetic using stone, tile, or concrete finishes for a polished look.
Waterfall or Fountain Features for Tranquillity
Add relaxing movement and sound to your pool with water features like cascading waterfalls or bubblers—great for high-end inground pool remodelling ideas. Choose natural rock waterfalls for a rustic, nature-inspired look, or go for sleek deck jets and bubbler fountains for a modern style.
Sheer descents offer a clean, dramatic sheet of water that looks stunning. These additions don’t just improve your pool’s appearance—they create a peaceful atmosphere and transform your backyard into a calming, resort-like escape where you can unwind and enjoy the view.
Fire Bowls and Fire Pits for Evening Warmth
For a striking focal point and extra warmth, add fire bowls along the pool’s edge or build a cozy seating area around a fire pit. The contrast between fire and water is both dramatic and inviting, making your pool area stand out.
These features are perfect for evening gatherings, adding a magical glow that enhances the ambience. They also let you enjoy your pool during cooler nights, whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a quiet swim under the stars. It’s a simple way to elevate your backyard experience.
Poolside Lounge Area for Relaxation
Take your poolside comfort to the next level by creating a stylish and cozy lounge area. Start with reclining chairs, cushioned daybeds, or even an outdoor sofa set for relaxing in style. Add shade with umbrellas or pergolas to keep cool during sunny days.
Include cozy touches like soft pillows, throws, and outdoor rugs to make the space feel warm and inviting. Finish it off with ambient lighting to set a calm, relaxing mood in the evening. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, entertain guests, or enjoy the sun.
Hot Tub or Spa for Wellness
Adding a hot tub or spa to your pool area brings a mix of luxury and wellness. Whether you choose a built-in spillover spa or a freestanding hot tub, the warm, bubbling water helps relax muscles and ease stress.
To make the space even better, you can include features like soft mood lighting, gentle water effects, or privacy screens made from tall plants or stylish fencing. It’s a perfect upgrade that offers comfort and relaxation all year round, making your pool area feel like a personal retreat.
Underwater Sound System for a Unique Experience
With a smartphone or remote control, you can easily manage your poolside music to suit any moment. Play relaxing tracks during spa time to unwind, or switch to upbeat tunes for lively pool parties. You can even change playlists based on the mood or occasion.
Whether it’s a quiet evening swim, a family gathering, or a celebration with friends. Many modern sound systems also let you adjust volume, bass, and song order right from your phone, adding both convenience and fun to your outdoor space.
Lazy River for Effortless Fun
For a bold and exciting upgrade, consider adding a lazy river to your pool area. Designed to gently wind through your backyard, a lazy river brings the fun and relaxation of a water park right to your home. It offers a peaceful float for adults, endless fun for kids, and adds a unique visual element to your landscape.
You can customize it with soft curves, mini waterfalls, rocks, and lush greenery to match your yard’s layout and create a truly immersive and relaxing outdoor retreat.
Poolside Kitchen or BBQ Area for Outdoor Dining
Don’t miss out on poolside fun by adding an outdoor kitchen or barbecue area nearby. This addition turns meal preparation into a convenient and enjoyable part of your outdoor experience. Consider incorporating an in-built grill, sink, and compact refrigerator to make cooking easy.
Adding bar seating or dining tables creates space for everyone to gather. Covered areas provide shade and protection, while lighting transforms the space into a vibrant gathering spot, perfect for evening parties that guests will love.
Retractable Pool Enclosure for Year-Round Use
Want to swim in any weather? A retractable pool enclosure provides users control of their environment so they can make it hot or cold as needed. You can open or close the enclosure according to sunshine conditions or temperature changes.
Advantages include:
- Extended swimming season
- Cleaner water with fewer leaves or debris
- Better energy efficiency and safety
Themed Pool Designs for a Personal Touch
Create a unique pool area by customizing it with a theme that reflects your personal style. A well-thought-out theme adds elegance, fun, or fantasy to your pool’s design. Some popular themes include:
- Tropical Paradise: Sandy edges, tiki decor, palm trees
- Modern Zen: Clean lines, dark tiles, bamboo fencing
- Mediterranean Retreat: Stone finishes, mosaic tiles, water features
- Kids’ Fantasy Pool: Pirate ships, mermaid grottoes, castles
Consider using decorative lighting, props, and landscaping to bring your theme to life. Collaborating with a designer will help you create the perfect pool space tailored to your vision.
Poolside Cinema for Outdoor Entertainment
Together with your pool, you can establish an amazing outdoor movie theatre setup. A projector alongside a screen or blank wall should be installed, while surrounding the area with comfortable seating options that could consist of lounge chairs or bean bags.
The addition of soft lighting will enable you to watch movies under a starlit sky. This upgrade transforms your pool area into an entertainment hub for family movie nights or hosting friends. You can even have a built-in sound system for an immersive experience.
Conclusion
With these 30 stunning pool remodelling tips, you have plenty of ways to upgrade your pool. From simple features like lighting or lounges to bold upgrades like a lazy river or themed design, the options are endless. Whether you’re exploring affordable swimming pool remodelling ideas, dreaming up bold pool redesign ideas, or searching for practical inground or above-ground pool remodelling ideas, your pool has the potential to be the highlight of your home. Invest in what matters most to you, and enjoy a backyard escape that feels like a true getaway.
FAQ
Which sequence is proper for pool remodelling?
Set your needs first, then establish a budget, followed by receiving expert advice for creative suggestions and planning steps. Take note of all aspects that need fixing as well as your desired improvements, whether they relate to looks or performance or security measures in your present layout. Staring inspiration through magazine pages and internet-based resources helps to bring clarity to your vision.
How long does remodelling take?
Typically 2–6 weeks. The duration for basic swimming pool modifications is shorter, but extensive transformations need additional time. The timeline for remodeling work may extend due to weather variations, together with product availability and official authorizations thus, planning flexibility delivers better results.
Is remodelling expensive?
Costs vary by project. The decisions regarding costs depend on whether you choose basic updates or opt for high-end enhancements to your space. Focus on your priorities. To identify the most suitable choice within your budget range consult multiple contractors to obtain several cost quotes.
Is renovation possible throughout the off-peak period?
Yes! Off-season remodeling provides builders with better availability in addition to shorter wait times for project scheduling. The off-season allows you full time to finish the pool construction before swimming season starts, so you can begin using your newly renovated pool.
Do I need permits?
Most major changes require permits. Check local regulations before starting. Having missing permits results in schedule disruptions and monetary penalties, which buyers need to handle by confirming their situations early during planning.
