Top 5 Design Trends for Pools in 2026

The start of a new year ushers in a fresh wave of trends, affecting everything from fashion to home décor to outdoor living spaces. As we dive into 2026, homeowners are increasingly reimagining what a backyard pool can be—from sleek, minimalistic retreats to thoughtfully designed spaces that blend beauty, functionality, and efficiency. If you’re planning a new build or pool renovation this year, keep in mind the following five trends that are shaping the industry and elevating outdoor living spaces across the country.

1. Rich, Dramatic Finishes & Tiles

Today’s pool owners are seeking to make an impact with color and texture beneath the waterline. Deep hues like charcoal gray, emerald, and midnight blue are gaining traction for pool interiors, delivering a luxe, mirror-like surface that feels more like a boutique resort than a backyard amenity. Glass mosaic tiles—whether glossy for sparkle or matte for serenity—are especially popular for accents and waterlines, adding depth and personality. We suggest pairing darker pool finishes with warmer decking materials, such as travertine or natural stone, to balance bold water tones with inviting outdoor textures.

2. Clean Architectural Shapes & Minimalist Design

In recent years, overly ornate pools have generally been declining in popularity. In 2026, pool owners are favoring elegant simplicity, including geometric shapes like rectangles, L-shapes, and sharp architectural lines. These crisp outlines create a seamless flow between the pool and the surrounding landscape, particularly when paired with minimalist decks and subtle water features. Additionally, modern shapes can make your outdoor space feel larger and more cohesive, and they complement a range of architectural styles.

3. Integrated Lighting & Smart Tech

Innovative lighting has become much more than a way to see at night. Many pools now incorporate LED color-changing lights, illuminated water features, and smart systems that can be controlled via smartphone or voice assistant. Specific features may include:

• Mood lighting for evening ambience
• Underwater LEDs for safe night swims
• Smart controllers for temperature, lighting, and pumps

These technologies add both beauty and convenience, transforming your pool into an adaptable centerpiece for day or night.

4. Sustainable & Eco-Conscious Pool Design

As environmental awareness continues to grow, sustainability has become a core design driver in modern pool projects. In 2026, more homeowners are choosing materials, systems, and construction practices that reduce environmental impact without sacrificing style or performance.

From energy-efficient equipment to water-smart features, sustainable pool design focuses on smarter operation and long-term savings. High-efficiency variable-speed pumps, LED lighting, and advanced automation systems can cut energy use dramatically compared with traditional setups. Meanwhile, water-saving technologies like smart cover systems and rainwater harvesting integration help minimize evaporation and keep your pool greener.

Design elements such as permeable decking, native landscaping, and drought-tolerant plantings around the poolscape can further enhance sustainability while creating a visually cohesive outdoor environment. The result? A pool that not only looks beautiful but performs responsibly with reduced energy and water usage year-round.

5. Natural Materials & Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow

Blending the pool with the surrounding environment is a defining design priority for 2026. Homeowners are gravitating toward natural stone, textured porcelain tile, and warm wood accents that help the pool feel like a natural extension of the landscape rather than a standalone feature. These materials bring visual warmth, durability, and timeless appeal—particularly when used across both the poolscape and adjacent outdoor living areas.

This trend carries through to pool decking as well, with travertine, pavers, and large-format tiles leading the way for their slip resistance, longevity, and ability to create a cohesive look. When paired with thoughtful landscaping—such as native plants, layered greenery, and subtle landscape lighting—the result is an outdoor space that feels intentionally designed, inviting, and connected to the home. The goal is a true “outdoor room” experience that’s just as comfortable and stylish as the interior.

Ready to Bring the Best Pool Design Trends of 2026 to Life?

Whether you’re starting fresh or planning a pool renovation, these design trends can offer inspiration and direction for creating a stylish, functional, and future-ready backyard oasis.

If you’d like to explore the possibilities for your dream pool, the team at Aqua Pool & Patio is here to help! With over 50 consecutive years of experience designing and building custom gunite pools, we will create a pool that reflects your unique vision. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!