Last Updated: October 2026
Building a pool based on your style means choosing a cohesive theme — modern, tropical, Mediterranean, minimalist, or natural — and carrying it through every visible element: the pool shape, the deck surface, the lighting, and the furniture around it. The shape and size you pick (see our guide to choosing a backyard pool design for that comparison) is only the starting point; style is what makes the finished space feel intentional rather than generic.
While installing a swimming pool in Toronto, it is only natural that you want to get the most out of your backyard investment. A custom backyard swimming pool offers you more features and amenities than a standard pool template, allowing you to add your creative flair to it. By working with a reputable pool builder, you can choose the design that best suits your needs and makes excellent use of the available space.
What Pool Styles Can You Choose From?
Before deciding on shape or materials, it helps to settle on an overall theme. Here are the styles Toronto homeowners ask for most often:
| Style | Defining Features |
|---|---|
| Modern / Minimalist | Clean geometric lines, monochrome decking, simple linear water features, minimal planting |
| Tropical / Resort | Freeform shape, lush landscaping, waterfalls, lagoon-style entries, warm wood decking |
| Mediterranean | Stone or tile coping, rounded edges, terracotta tones, integrated loungers and pergolas |
| Natural / Rustic | Irregular freeform shape, boulder edging, native plantings, muted earth-tone finishes |
| Classic / Traditional | Rectangle or Roman shape, symmetrical layout, formal landscaping, understated lighting |
Once you’ve picked a style direction, the shape, deck, and lighting choices below should all reinforce it rather than compete with it.
Top Pool Design Ideas to Build a Custom Pool!
Pool Shape & Size
How you are going to utilize your backyard space for the pool installation impacts the overall appearance of your home. Here are some options to help you pick the best one for your backyard swimming pool in Toronto:
| Pool Shape | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Freeform Pool | You can customize your pool with a freeform pool to add some curves. These shapes are popular as they are unique and offer you the freedom to add your personal touch. |
| Geometric Pool | Similar to freeform pools, this pool shape has sharper and well-defined lines. You can select a geometric pattern that suits your backyard. |
| L Shaped Pool | If your backyard swimming pool is going to be small, this L-shaped pool with its interesting symmetry will enhance the appeal of the space. |
| Oval and Round Shape | Oval and round pool shapes are generally ideal for larger spaces. They are fairly common and look great. |
| Rectangle Shape | Rectangle pool shapes are mostly suitable for lap pools. If you desire a traditional look, the classy lines of a rectangle swimming pool will enhance the appeal of your backyard. |
Want the full breakdown of which shape fits your yard and budget? See our backyard pool design comparison guide.
Decorating Ideas for Your Pool Deck
| Decorative Furniture Ideas for Your Pool Deck | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Chaise Lounges | These laid back chairs are perfect for relaxing by your pool area. You can select the colour and texture to show off your vibrant style. |
| Poolside Bed | Poolside beds are designed to help you relax and unwind. They are also great when you host a social gathering. |
| Patio Umbrella | A patio umbrella will help you make the most of your outdoor space and provide relief from hot summer days in Toronto. |
Whether you are planning to install a small swimming pool in Toronto or aiming for something grand, a well-decorated pool deck can define the space and offer comfort. While there are numerous fresh pool landscaping ideas to adorn your pool deck, here are some suggestions to enhance it and add functionality.
Outdoor Pool Lighting Ideas
Your custom backyard swimming pool design is incomplete without outdoor lighting. Installing light fixtures can highlight the best features of your backyard pool at night and also provide adequate security to your home. You may consider using outdoor lighting for your pathways, entryways, and pool deck. Here are a few pool landscaping designs to incorporate stylish outdoor lighting into your home:
- Underwater Pool Lights: Enhance your in-ground pool by installing lighting fixtures with the assistance of reputable pool builders. Colourful LED underwater lights can imbue your Toronto swimming pool with much-needed character.
- Lanterns: For a lovely evening ambiance, consider installing pathway lights and lanterns around your backyard swimming pool design to enhance the atmosphere.
- String lights: Illuminate your backyard swimming pool with string lights placed above the pool. Moreover, string lights are useful for nights when you are hosting a social gathering.
Read More: Top 30 Swimming Pool Designs
“The pools that photograph the best years later are the ones where every choice — shape, decking material, lighting color temperature — was made to support one style instead of borrowing a bit from everywhere. Pick your style first, then make the shape and material decisions serve it,” says Ofer Winkler, Co-Founder of Land-Con Pools.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose a pool style for my backyard?
Start by picking one overall theme — modern, tropical, Mediterranean, natural, or classic — based on your home’s architecture and personal taste, then choose your pool shape, decking, and lighting to reinforce that single theme rather than mixing several styles.
Which pool shape works best for a tropical or resort-style pool?
Freeform shapes work best for tropical and resort styles since their irregular, natural curves pair well with lush landscaping, waterfalls, and lagoon-style entries.
Does lighting really change the style of a pool?
Yes — lighting color temperature and placement significantly affect mood. Warm lanterns and string lights suit tropical and Mediterranean styles, while clean underwater LED lighting suits modern and minimalist styles.
Can I mix pool styles, like modern shape with tropical landscaping?
You can, but it’s harder to get right. Most homeowners who are happiest with their finished pool picked one style direction and kept the shape, materials, and lighting consistent with it throughout.
Design Your Dream Backyard Swimming Pool with Our Experts!
Land-Con Luxury Pools is a reputable company in Toronto, renowned for crafting custom and contemporary swimming pools. Our team comprises dedicated professionals and architects who will assess your backyard and design a swimming pool tailored to your specifications.
Our service regions include Toronto, Markham, Etobicoke, Vaughan, Mississauga, Richmond Hill, Barrie, Brampton, Hamilton, Ottawa, Woodbridge, North York, and the surrounding GTA.
Feel free to reach out to us at 416.504.5263 or send us your queries at info@landcon.ca.
About the author: This guide is reviewed by the Land-Con Pools team, a Toronto-based swimming pool design and installation company with 25+ years of experience building custom inground pools across the GTA.
