Luxury Pool Design Ideas to Inspire Your Next Renovation

If you’re ready to transform your backyard into a resort-style retreat, it’s time to explore pool design ideas that combine beauty, innovation, and functionality. At Fountain Blue Pools, we’ve helped South Florida homeowners bring their dream pools to life with custom designs that reflect their lifestyle and elevate their outdoor living spaces. Whether you’re renovating an outdated pool or building new, these luxury design ideas will spark inspiration and help you envision what’s possible.

1. Glass Tile Finishes: Dazzling Depth and Color

For homeowners who want their pool to double as a work of art, glass tile is a standout choice. These luxury finishes create a luminous, jewel-toned effect that catches the light and shimmers beneath the surface. Whether you prefer deep ocean blues, soft iridescent hues, or custom mosaic patterns, glass tile adds instant elegance and a truly unique visual signature to your backyard.

At Fountain Blue Pools, we source premium glass tile options that not only look stunning but are also durable in the South Florida sun. We often use these finishes for entire pool interiors, decorative waterline accents, raised walls, and even spa surrounds to create a cohesive, luxurious look.

Pro Tip: Pair glass tile with LED lighting to amplify the shimmer effect at night and set the perfect mood for evening swims or cocktail hours.

2. Spa + Pool Combos (Spools): Relaxation in Any Space

Don’t have the footprint for a full-size pool and spa? You don’t need one to enjoy the full luxury experience. At Fountain Blue Pools, we specialize in designing “spools” — a sophisticated fusion of spa and pool that delivers all the relaxation and visual appeal of a larger setup, without demanding excess space.

A spool (short for spa-pool) is the perfect solution for homeowners with smaller lots, townhomes, or intimate courtyards. Despite their compact footprint, these versatile pools are big on features. Whether you want to enjoy a rejuvenating soak, light aquatic exercise, or simply dip your toes in after a long day, a spool offers the best of both worlds.

We customize each spool to reflect your lifestyle and preferences. Popular features include:

• Hydrotherapy jets for muscle relief and therapeutic benefits
  
  
• Submerged benches or wraparound seating for socializing and comfort
  
  
• Multi-zone LED lighting for ambient evening use
  
  
• Temperature control systems for year-round usability — warm in winter, cool in summer
  
  
• Elegant finishes, including natural stone, glass tile, or glass tile accents to match your home’s aesthetic
  
  

Because spools are smaller, they’re also more energy-efficient and easier to maintain, making them a smart choice for homeowners looking to enjoy luxury with less upkeep. And when paired with surrounding hardscape like a cozy patio, vertical garden, or fire feature, a spool becomes a central piece of a truly refined outdoor retreat.

Whether you're looking to unwind solo, entertain close friends, or enhance your wellness routine, a custom-designed spool delivers style, serenity, and sophistication — even in the most compact spaces.

3. Recessed Seating Areas: Built for Entertaining

Love to entertain? Recessed pool seating brings everyone into the conversation — whether they’re swimming or staying dry. Picture a sunken firepit lounge inside the pool, where guests can gather under the stars without ever leaving the water. This feature has quickly become a client favorite in our South Florida renovations, combining function and flair.

Pro Tip: Add color-changing LED lighting beneath the seating area for an unforgettable nighttime atmosphere.

4. Tanning Ledges + Submerged Loungers

Also known as Baja shelves or sun shelves, these shallow ledges allow you to lounge in just a few inches of water — perfect for cooling off while soaking up the sun. We often install these ledges with built-in umbrella sleeves and in-pool loungers to recreate the feel of a high-end beach resort.

Pro Tip: White or light-colored finishes on your tanning ledge will keep the surface cooler during the summer heat.

5. Modern Minimalist Designs

If your style leans clean and contemporary, a minimalist pool might be the perfect fit. Think sleek lines, geometric shapes, and dark interior finishes for a reflective, mirror-like water surface. At Fountain Blue Pools, our modern designs often pair these pools with elegant limestone or porcelain coping, creating a high-contrast, architectural look.

Pro Tip: Integrate smart automation controls to manage lighting, temperature, and water features with your smartphone.

6. Integrated Outdoor Living Spaces

A luxury pool should feel like the centerpiece of your backyard — not a standalone feature. At Fountain Blue Pools, we believe that a truly exceptional pool is just one part of a thoughtfully designed outdoor experience. That’s why we approach every renovation with the full outdoor lifestyle in mind, crafting spaces that feel like a five-star resort — right at home.

Our custom designs often integrate seamlessly with outdoor kitchens, built-in grilling stations, and al fresco dining areas — perfect for hosting everything from Sunday brunches to sunset dinner parties. We also design and build poolside bars complete with countertops, refrigeration, and stools in or out of the water, so you never have to leave the fun to grab a drink.

For those who love to entertain or unwind outdoors, our team can incorporate covered cabanas, lounging pergolas, and shaded daybeds — ideal for staying cool during South Florida’s sunny afternoons. Every detail, from the placement of lighting and fire features to the flow between seating areas and walkways, is considered to create a space that feels cohesive, functional, and elevated.

Pro Tip: Consider built-in audio systems and waterproof TVs for the ultimate backyard entertainment setup.

7. Statement Water Features

From sheer descent waterfalls to LED-lit rain curtains, water features add motion, sound, and visual impact to any design. These features aren’t just decorative — they help cool the water, improve circulation, and create a spa-like vibe. We often recommend pairing water elements with lush tropical landscaping to create your own slice of paradise.

Pro Tip: Use automation to control water features remotely or set them on a timer for ease and efficiency.

8. Family-Friendly Fun Without Sacrificing Style

Want a pool that’s kid-approved but still luxurious? It’s all about zoning your design. We’ve created pools with integrated slides, splash pads, and swim-up seating — all wrapped in upscale finishes and materials. One of our favorite South Florida builds includes a slide built into a coral stone grotto with a hidden storage area underneath.

Pro Tip: Choose slip-resistant decking materials like travertine or shell stone for added safety and sophistication.

Your Dream Pool Starts Here

Whether you envision a sleek infinity-edge pool, a spool for relaxing evenings, or an entertainer’s paradise with every amenity, Fountain Blue Pools is here to bring your vision to life. Our team specializes in high-end pool design and renovation, blending cutting-edge technology with custom craftsmanship.

Let’s transform your backyard into a space that’s as functional as it is stunning. Ready to get started?

Call us or request your design consultation today.
Serving South Florida homeowners in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and beyond.
🔗 Fountain Blue Pools | Custom Pool Design & Renovation