In 2025, pool design experts are reporting a trend in classic interior colors such as black, gray and white, accented with bold statement options like large-format porcelain tiles. For a streamlined and contemporary look, geometric pool shapes are popular for their crisp angles and shimmering surfaces. Also, with an invisible edge that gives the impression of the water merging into the surrounding terrain, infinity pools are one of the most luxurious and timeless options on the market.
According to Clint Fore, owner of Aqua Blue Pools, shallow platforms, also known as sun ledges, tanning shelves or Baja steps, are still in vogue as a must-have feature for many homeowners. They provide the perfect spot to relax, soak in the vitamin D and stay cool without fully submerging. With the continued growing demand for in-pool relaxation, sun ledges offer a natural extension of decking that blurs the lines between sunbathing and swimming. The feature can also be enhanced for an at-home resort experience by adding lounge chairs directly onto the sun ledge, creating an ideal space for enjoying a cocktail, reading or simply cooling off.
Also on trend, Fore said, are plunge pools. “The water offers a delightful way of waking yourself up after a long day or giving yourself a kickstart ahead of a busy schedule. And these pools can be beautifully complemented by fountains or waterfalls, creating an oasis perfect for either lounging around or a quick dip. Elegant and relaxing, the sound of the water complements the beautiful aesthetics of the feature itself.”
Fore added that UV and ozone sanitizing systems are gaining traction as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional chlorine. By using ultraviolet light and ozone to neutralize bacteria and contaminants, these alternatives to chlorine sanitizing reduce chemical use to provide a cleaner and healthier swimming experience.
“Pool experts at Aqua Blue are also monitoring how AI may revolutionize pool management systems in the years to come,” explained Fore. “Artificial intelligence may include tasks from water chemistry and filtration to energy efficiency and maintenance schedules, ensuring optimal performance with minimal effort from homeowners.”
Perfect Your Pool’s Perimeter
The layout of the landscaping around the pool is of equal importance to the pool design itself, according to Adam Dukes, owner of GrandScapes. He said that by using an exclusive formula, GrandScapes achieves visually appealing results and delivers solutions that evolve to meet market trends, ensuring the preservation of the natural look and feel of vegetation and greenery.
Part of that equation could include hardscapes, which are man-made features used in landscape architecture that contrast with the surrounding natural vegetation. “When done correctly, hardscaping will offer an attractive long-term addition to a backyard, giving homeowners the option of creating unique custom spaces suited to any lifestyle,” Dukes said.
Dukes added that noticeably growing trends such as fire features like a fireplace or dedicated firepit area, vibrant decking patterns, outdoor entertainment rooms and green turf can take the outdoor living space to the next level. “Keeping your lawn alive is a year-round job. Between mowing, fertilizing, watering and trimming, yard maintenance can also quickly become a full-time job,” stated Dukes. “While we are happy to come in and take care of this for you, there is an alternative. Artificial turf is becoming a popular option for many Mount Pleasant home and business owners. Not only do artificial lawns give you back your Saturdays, they are a more sustainable, affordable and eco-friendly option than real turf.”
Additionally, Dukes suggested incorporating enhancements, which can entail a variety of landscaping projects around the property. These can include installing new plants, removing older ones, shaping current shrubs, adding new beds or adding pine straw or mulch to existing beds. “We can install irrigation to new plantings, add borders to beds, patch sod, create new walkways and so much more,” he said.
Besides aesthetics, functionality is a big part of the equation. Sleek modern handrails are an intentional design choice that can make pool use easier for more “seasoned” swimmers without taking away from a beautiful setting.
To learn how to plan a pool project by blending luxury, functionality and sustainability into one refreshing package, visit aquabluepools.net and grandscapes.com.
By Sarah Rose
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