Pool design has evolved significantly over the past decade, and a remodel is often the perfect opportunity to bring an older pool's look in line with current trends, rather than simply restoring it to its original appearance. For DFW homeowners planning a renovation, understanding what's currently popular can help clarify design decisions.

Pebble and Aggregate Finishes

Pebble finishes have largely overtaken traditional white plaster as the preferred resurfacing choice for homeowners seeking a more natural, textured look. Beyond aesthetics, these finishes tend to offer better durability and staining resistance than standard plaster.

Darker Pool Interior Colors

Dark-colored pool finishes — deep blues, grays, and even near-black options — have grown in popularity for the dramatic, lagoon-like appearance they create, along with better heat absorption that can help maintain warmer water temperatures.

Waterline and Accent Tile Updates

Updating waterline tile is one of the most visually impactful and cost-effective parts of a pool remodel, instantly modernizing the pool's appearance. Popular current styles favor natural stone-look tile and glass accent tile over the more ornate ceramic patterns common in older pools.

Minimalist Coping and Deck Design

Clean-lined coping in natural stone or concrete, paired with a simplified deck design, has become a popular alternative to more ornate, textured coping styles from previous decades, aligning pool areas with broader trends toward simplified, modern outdoor design.

Integrated Water Features

Sheer descent water features, bubblers, and deck jets are increasingly popular additions during a remodel, adding both a visual and auditory element to the pool area without requiring a complete structural overhaul.

Sun Shelves and Tanning Ledges

Shallow sun shelves near the pool's entry point have become a popular addition during remodels, providing a shallow lounging area for relaxing in the water without needing to be in the deep end.

Energy-Efficient Equipment Upgrades

Variable-speed pumps and updated filtration systems are commonly included in remodels, both for their operating cost savings and quieter performance compared to older single-speed equipment.

Cohesive Design With Surrounding Hardscape

A growing trend in pool remodeling is coordinating the pool's finishes and tile with the surrounding patio, landscaping, and outdoor living features, so the pool reads as one cohesive element of the overall backyard rather than a separate, disconnected feature.

Choosing Trends That Fit Your Long-Term Plans

While current design trends are worth considering, the best choices are ones that also fit your personal taste and how long you plan to stay in the home, since some more dramatic trends may have a shorter design lifespan than more timeless, neutral options.