7 Basic Pool Designs
![Two kids swimming underwater with goggles](https://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20210624042002im_/https://media.angi.com/s3fs-public/styles/widescreen_large/s3/s3fs-public/ax064_787a_9_0.jpg?YiBBlMt163F_OFH1oUnntvk3wsgouODY&itok=6c9lMzLd)
3 pros!
Check out these simple backyard pool ideas.
For those on a budget, keeping things simple can help lower the expense of adding a backyard pool. Swimming pool installation costs vary, anywhere from $5,000 for above-ground to $50,000 for deluxe in-ground.
Here's a look at some common pool designs:
Standard rectangle
![Rectangle in-ground pool with diving board and basketball goal](https://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20210624042002im_/https://media.angi.com/s3fs-public/styles/structured_-_full_width_image/s3/s3fs-public/ax222_30da_9.jpg?_aGQrIDgHZS.zihgxYLez3V0O7XjjVDm&itok=iqCQ5edX)
Photo by Eldon Lindsay
The most utilized in-ground pool design for over a half-century. With a 10-foot deep end, you can install a diving board or slide. A basketball goal also makes a fun, inexpensive add-on.
Let there be light
![Pool with purple lighting](https://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20210624042002im_/https://media.angi.com/s3fs-public/styles/structured_-_full_width_image/s3/s3fs-public/ax042_2437_9.jpg?Kk4v.OyNNWte5sUSdwwi70JqdtXvbX1Q&itok=l5twkntx)
Photo courtesy of Meira M.
Four mini soaker fountains and simple colored lighting give this standard in-ground pool increased appeal.
Basic brick
![Small pool on brick patio](https://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20210624042002im_/https://media.angi.com/s3fs-public/styles/structured_-_full_width_image/s3/s3fs-public/ax003_30e3_9_0.jpg?Oboz8ew_pa1ZBL4UkKqFIDJ52Cg7GyGk&itok=F9Z4G56B)
Angie's List photo
Understated is the theme of this small pool inserted into a brick paver patio.
Space saver
![Small backyard pool](https://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20210624042002im_/https://media.angi.com/s3fs-public/styles/structured_-_full_width_image/s3/s3fs-public/ax068_06f8_9.jpg?g8e8LaclqaA4UtHKx57RHh1u7nWxSkDc&itok=wAToRh2V)
Angie's List photo
You don't need a lot of room for a backyard pool. As this one illustrates, pool service professionals can customize to fit almost any space.
Above-ground comfort
![Above-ground pool with composite deck](https://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20210624042002im_/https://media.angi.com/s3fs-public/styles/structured_-_full_width_image/s3/s3fs-public/ax101_60ba_9.jpg?5tbyD5_UKHYPdFQCYb58etMngRllmn3F&itok=2s70PU1W)
Photo courtesy of Christopher Corbett
Above-ground pools cost a fraction of in-ground models but also offer terrific enjoyment, like this version with composite deck.
Pool and spa under cover
![Pool and hot tub with lanai](https://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20210624042002im_/https://media.angi.com/s3fs-public/styles/structured_-_full_width_image/s3/s3fs-public/ax149_3bed_9.jpg?2s2tcHTj.uFWNKX9R9cPGs5Ma8pP7beP&itok=fswb1YtB)
Photo courtesy of Richard O.
If you want to enjoy your pool (and hot tub if you have one), but live in an area plagued by summer bugs, a lanai like this can provide the insect shield you desire.
Old-school vinyl
![Small vinyl liner pool](https://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20210624042002im_/https://media.angi.com/s3fs-public/styles/structured_-_full_width_image/s3/s3fs-public/ax195_76eb_9.jpg?bJjH9R1HjC4Byp2Rti_6uq1Ysn14bxLd&itok=_2TuEsCI)
Angie's List photo
While fiberglass pools are known for their ease of installation and adaptability, many homeowners still go with vinyl liner pools, which also offer space versatility.