Pool Design
A swimming pool is a major investment, and like any investment needs planning. Follow this simple guide and decide what you want before you talk to the contractor.



> In-ground pools
> Above-ground pools
> Pool Decoration



Pool choice

A swimming pool in your yard can bring great pleasure. It can become the central and social focus of your summer, you can keep your eye on the kids and it can add great value to your investment in your property.

There are two main types of residential swimming pools: in-ground and above-ground. In-ground pools give you a great opportunity to improve your backyard with a design that can be customised to your landscape. It can be built in all kinds of shapes and sizes to overcome any limitations of your block.

The main consideration before buying a pool is where you are going to place it. It will need to be a spot in your garden that is clear of underground pipes and cables. Think about the location of trees and other possible sources of debris. Consider its position in relation to the neighbours, from a noise and privacy point of view.

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In-ground pools

In-ground swimming pools come in three main varieties: concrete, vinyl and
fibreglass. In all three cases, a hole will need to be dug before it can be installed.
  • Concrete pools have a reinforcing frame built to which the concrete is applied. To this can be added a wide range of pool surfaces. They offer the greatest  design flexibility and are usually perceived as being the best quality.
  • Vinyl pools require a frame to be constructed with walls and floor. The vinyl layer is applied to the frame.
  • Fibreglass pools come prefabricated in a specific shape and this shell is inserted into the hole. Fibreglass pools can be less expensive, but give you the least flexibility in your design.
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Above-ground pools

Above-ground swimming pools are a very good alternative for those on a tight budget - they can be bought or less that $1500 for a small pool and up to $10,000 for a large pool. They are designed for ease of installation and you don't have to worry about disturbing pipes and cables under your backyard.

The biggest issue with above-ground pools is that they are not as attractive as the in-ground option. The support structure is completely visible and because of it's height it can look intrusive or temporary. There are options to help disguise this appearance with decking and the use of siding. But if you plan to go that way, it may be worth checking the cost of an in-ground fibreglass pool.

The other option is an inflatable pool. They come in many sizes, from a meter in diameter for small children (or limited spaces) to something large enough to hold an entire family. Most inflatable pools do not come with any filtration system, which means they have to be emptied, cleaned and refilled regularly and this makes them more difficult to maintain. Inflatable pools can damage your lawn if they are left in the same spot for too long.


These are the main options. Your choice will be determined by available space, your budget and how committed you are to splashing around in your own backyard.

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