10 Rectangle Pool Design Ideas to Upgrade Your Backyard

A rectangle pool doesn’t have to look basic. These ideas show how to add features that improve both design and usability.

Rectangular pools are popular for a reason. They’re clean, simple, and functional.

But here’s the downside: without the right features, they can look plain.

If you want your pool to feel like a backyard upgrade instead of just a place to swim, the details matter.

Below are 10 proven ways to add style, function, and personality to a rectangle pool so it actually stands out.

1. Tanning Ledge (Baja Shelf): The Most Used Feature in a Pool

rectangular pool with tanning ledge and in-water lounge chairs

A tanning ledge is a shallow platform built into the pool.

Why it matters:
It’s where people actually spend time. You can lounge in the water, add chairs, or let kids play safely.

Design tip:
Add bubblers or accent tile to make the ledge stand out visually.

2. Floating Steps: A Clean, Modern Upgrade

rectangular pool with modern floating step stones across shallow water

Floating steps are platforms set in shallow water that look like they’re suspended.

Why it matters:
They add visual interest without cluttering a clean rectangular design.

Best for:
Modern-style pools where you want something subtle but different.

3. Infinity Edge: A High-End Visual Upgrade

An infinity edge lets water spill over one side, creating a seamless horizon effect.

Why it matters:
It instantly elevates a basic rectangle into a luxury-looking pool.

Best for:
Homes with a view or elevation.

4. Deck Jets & Laminars: Add Motion to a Flat Design

rectangular pool with deck jets creating arcing water streams laminar water features with LED lighting on rectangular pool

Deck jets create a softer, more diffused water arc, while laminars produce a clean, glass-like stream.

These features shoot arcs of water into the pool.

Why it matters:

They break up straight lines and add movement and sound.

Difference:

Deck jets = softer, more affordable
Laminars = cleaner arcs, can include LED lighting

5. Raised Wall (Bond Beam): Add Height and Dimension

rectangular pool with raised wall and sheer descent waterfall feature

A raised wall is a section of the pool that extends above ground level.

Why it matters:
It adds depth and gives you a place to add water features, tile, or fire elements.

Design tip:
Use it as a focal point with waterfalls or decorative finishes.

6. Pool Interior Finish: The Color That Changes Everything

rectangular pool with light interior finish for bright blue water rectangular pool with dark interior finish creating deep blue water color

Dark finishes create deeper, more reflective water, while lighter finishes produce a brighter blue look.

The interior finish is the surface inside your pool, and it plays a huge role in how the water actually looks.

Why it matters:
This is what determines whether your pool looks bright blue, deep blue, gray, or even green. It has a bigger visual impact than most add-on features.

Best for:
Homeowners who care about the overall aesthetic and want a specific water color.

7. LED Lighting: Make Your Pool Usable at Night

rectangular pool with color changing LED lighting at night

LED lights illuminate your pool and can change colors.

Why it matters:
Without lighting, your pool is limited to daytime use.

Bonus:
Color-changing options can shift the mood for relaxing or entertaining.

8. Fire & Water Bowls: Create a Strong Focal Point

poolside fire and water bowl feature on raised pedestal

These features combine flame and/or flowing water in decorative bowls.

Why it matters:
They add contrast and become a visual centerpiece, especially at night.

Design tip:
Place them on raised sections or corners for maximum impact.

9. Perimeter Decking & Coping: Frame the Pool the Right Way

rectangular pool with modern paver decking and contrasting coping

Decking and coping are the materials that surround your pool.

Why it matters:
These elements define how your pool looks within the space and help create a cohesive, finished backyard design.

Best for:
Anyone who wants their pool to feel like a natural extension of their outdoor living area.

10. Built-In Spa: Add Comfort and Year-Round Use

rectangular pool with attached raised spa and spillover feature

An integrated spa adds relaxation without changing the clean lines of a rectangular pool.

A spa can be integrated into or attached to your pool.

Why it matters:
It extends how often you use your pool and adds a relaxation feature.

Design tip:
A raised spa adds visual impact and a spillover water effect.

Other Features to Consider

Depending on your budget and space, you can also add:

Swim-up bars or seating
Built-in benches
Custom tile or pool finishes
Fire pits or outdoor seating areas

A good design comes down to choosing the right combination, not adding everything.

Not Sure Which Features Make Sense for Your Pool?

The right upgrades depend on your space, budget, and how you plan to use your pool.

Get a custom design and see exactly what works for your backyard.