The Best Pools for Small Backyards

Many of us would love to have our own swimming pool in our backyard, but that doesn’t mean we all have enough space to install one. Or do we?

With new innovations in concrete pool constructions and designs, there are now many wonderful pool design options even for the smallest backyards and narrow lots of land. In this article we guide you through some of the more flexible pool designs that have gain immense popularity lately thanks to their convenience and ability to fit into tight spaces.

At Burleigh Pools on the Gold Coast, we build pools in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can help you decide on one that will fit your space perfectly. 

Plunge Pools

This is perhaps the most popular pool design among home owners in Australia at the moment. Plunge pools are typically small (between 2m and 7m in length, and a width of 2m to 4m) but deep pools designed for soaking and relaxation rather than swimming. They can be installed in-ground or above ground (less common) and fit most spaces.

These pools are highly affordable to buy and maintain due to their small size, but are still just as cooling and refreshing on a hot summer’s day in Queensland. These pools are generally not as labour intensive as larger swimming pools, and a contractor should be able to install a plunge pool in a few weeks versus the six-to-eight-week time period for a regular in-ground pool.

Spa Pools

If you want to combine the affordability and convenience of a plunge pool with the relaxation and luxury of a spa bath, you can install a ‘spool’ or a spa pool. Same size, same fit and designs as a plunge pool but now with the extra in-built seating and spa jets.

It’s the ultimate experience in relaxation and won’t cost you an arm and a leg to heat up. Because of its humble size and affordability, most people enjoy a soak even during the winter months. They come as standalone features or can be installed adjacent to a full sized swimming pool, it all depends on the space you have.

Also read: What to look for in a spa pool

Compact Infinity Pool

If you are someone who lives on a sloped block, you’re in luck. Not only do you have some amazing views that usually come with building on a sloping block, but you can also leverage that slope to create an infinity pool that appears bigger than it is by ‘looking down the hill’. Infinity pools come in all sizes and shapes and are signified by their seemingly edge free design.

This type of pool requires a bit more time and expertise than other pool designs, largely because of the difficulty to work on a sloped block. Generally, infinity pools are installed partially or completely above the ground and the pool shell requires a special support that enables this.

Lap Pool parallel to your home or fence line

Home owners with a narrow block who still want to be able to swim in the pool could consider a lap pool. This pool design can be built to run parallel to your home right up against the house wall or fence line, and maximise the space even on the narrowest lots.

Contrary to what some people may think, lap pools do not have to be plain or boring. Nowadays lap pools are modern and built to complement the home and its surroundings. Include stunning water features, special underwater lighting or create your own resort style sanctuary in your very own backyard.

Freeform garden pool

You have all the choice you could want with a concrete inground freeform pool. Due to its flexible design, you can form it according to your existing backyard, thus maximise what little space you have. Incorporating natural elements, you can turn it into a pond or artificial lake, making it the centrepiece of your backyard.

Gold Coast Plunge Pool Builders

Burleigh Pools are award-winning Gold Coast pool builders. 

Talk to us about designing and building a pool that will fit your home and backyard.  Our team have the experience to give you a great looking pool complete with landscaping, fencing and more.

Meeting your budget and nailing your preferred style is our utmost priority which is why we provide a free consultation. You can view our previous pool projects here.