Rock waterfalls and grottos are beautiful, but they're not right for every backyard. If you want something sleeker, more contemporary, or just different, you have a lot of options.

These 10 swimming pool water features range from affordable deck jets to high-end rain curtains, and each one adds movement, sound, and visual interest in a way a static pool simply can't match. Here's what each one looks like and which style might suit yours.

Topics: custom spas, Design / Features, swimming pool photos, swimming pool plans, LED, infinity swimming pool, negative-edge pool, Buyer Tips, custom pool ideas, swimming pool waterfalls, lighting, tanning ledges

—Dark swimming pools and the common risks that accompany them 

Let’s call a spade a spade: Black-bottom swimming pools come with an array of perils.

Ask someone who chose black pool plaster for their backyard resort about their experience.

Topics: pool plaster, plaster, interior finish, Buyer Tips, custom pool ideas, sanitizer, water maintenance, Purification, Maintenance, tropical pools

If your kids are spending more time at the neighbor's house than yours, your pool might be missing something.

The good news: you don't need a waterpark budget to build a backyard your family actually wants to use. Whether you're planning a new pool or thinking about a remodel, these seven features make a real difference for kids and teens.

Topics: Design / Features, pool construction, swimming pool remodeling, custom pool design, custom pool ideas, tanning ledges, Games & Activities, Owner/Lifestyle, children

A tropical pool should feel relaxing, immersive, and connected to the surrounding backyard, not overcrowded with random features that compete for attention.

Topics: Design / Features, Beach entry pool, custom pool ideas, swimming pool waterfalls, natural entry pool, backyard design, tropical pools, lagoon pools

—Imagine the benefits a custom inground design can bring

Many products claim to change your life, very few even come close. Swimming pools and spas are among those that actually often do.

Topics: Backyard Additions, outdoor kitchens, swimming pool plans, healthy lifestyle, aquatic fitness, custom pool design, custom pool ideas, gunite spa, tanning ledges, Backyard Entertaining, Health & Lifestyle

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

Topics: pool layout, Design / Features, swimming pool photos, swimming pool plans, LED, infinity swimming pool, Buyer Tips, custom pool ideas, gunite spa, vanishing-edge pool, lighting, tanning ledges

—Marrying two backyard amenities for optimal fun and functionality

A custom outdoor kitchen—often built around an existing swimming pool or in conjunction with a new or remodeled one—provides a wonderful amenity to expand options for outdoor dining and entertaining.

Topics: Backyard Additions, outdoor kitchens, pool construction, pool buyer tips, swimming pool plans, island grill, custom pool ideas