A swimming pool has always been a symbol of luxury and leisure, but in today’s world of custom home design, it’s so much more than just a place to cool off. Modern pools have evolved into personal backyard retreats, complete with high-tech pool features and sleek aesthetics that rival five-star resorts. If you’re building a custom home or updating your backyard pool, you might be wondering which pool features are trending right now.
Popular Pool Features to Add to Your Custom Home
1. Infinity Edges (Vanishing Edge Pools)
One of the most striking features gaining popularity is the infinity edge pool, also known as a vanishing edge or negative edge pool. They create a seamless visual effect where the water appears to merge with the distant landscape.. Commonly seen in luxury resorts, they’re now making their way into private custom homes, especially those with scenic views. Whether overlooking a city skyline, mountains, or a desert sunset, infinity edge pools add dramatic visual appeal and an undeniable wow factor.
2. Baja Shelves (Tanning Ledges)
Modern pool designs often feature a Baja shelf, a spacious shallow area ranging from 6 to 18 inches deep, where you can lounge and cool off without going all the way in. Homeowners use them to sunbathe, read, or keep toddlers safely entertained while staying cool. Pair a Baja shelf with a couple of in-water lounge chairs and a shade umbrella, and you’ve got a relaxing resort-style setup right in your backyard.
3. LED Lighting Systems
Today’s pools aren’t just about daytime fun. LED lighting systems have become a must-have for modern pools, offering customizable colors and dynamic light shows for nighttime ambiance. Homeowners can program color themes for parties, holidays, or quiet evenings by the water. Not only do these lights enhance the aesthetic of your pool, but they also improve safety for after-dark swims.
4. Smart Pool Automation
With smart technology advancing rapidly, pool automation systems are now highly sought after for custom homes. These systems allow you to control everything — from water temperature and lighting to pumps and waterfalls — through a smartphone app or voice assistant. You can schedule pool cleanings, adjust chlorine levels, and even heat your spa remotely, making pool maintenance and operation easier and more efficient than ever.
5. Fire and Water Features
The mix of fire and water elements transforms any outdoor space into a captivating retreat. Fire bowls, floating fire pits, and water walls are becoming popular additions to modern pool designs. Fire features add warmth and drama, especially during evening gatherings, while water features like cascades, bubblers, and deck jets offer soothing soundscapes and a visually dynamic experience.
6. Integrated Spas
Why have a separate hot tub when you can integrate one into your pool design? Attached spas with spillover edges not only save space but also look seamless and sophisticated. You can enjoy a warm soak while still feeling connected to the pool area. Many modern spas now include hydrotherapy jets, lighting, and automation options for a fully customizable relaxation experience.
7. Naturalistic and Lagoon-Style Designs
While sleek, geometric pools are still in style, many homeowners are opting for naturalistic, lagoon-style pools that blend with desert or tropical landscapes. These pools often feature freeform shapes, rock waterfalls, grottos, and lush plants, creating a peaceful, nature-inspired escape in your own backyard.
8. Energy-Efficient Equipment
Sustainability is a growing priority for homeowners, and modern pool equipment reflects that. Variable-speed pumps, solar heaters, and energy-efficient filtration systems are now standard in many custom homes as the go to pool features to add. These upgrades not only reduce your environmental footprint but also lower operating costs over time.
9. Swim-Up Bars and Outdoor Kitchens
For those who love entertaining, swim-up bars are a fun, social addition to custom pools. Paired with adjacent outdoor kitchens, these features transform your backyard into a resort-style entertainment hub. Guests can swim up to the bar for a drink or snack without ever leaving the water, making it perfect for summer gatherings and parties.
Modern pools have moved well past the standard rectangle and diving board look of the past. Today’s most popular pool features focus on combining beauty, technology, and functionality to create personal backyard retreats tailored to homeowners’ lifestyles.
Whether you’re drawn to the sleek look of an infinity edge, the convenience of smart automation, or the relaxing vibe of a natural lagoon-style pool, there’s no shortage of exciting pool features to consider. Adding these modern pool features can elevate your custom home’s outdoor space and enhance your quality of life — right in your own backyard.