Fibreglass inground pools are a great option for a backyard, as they're much quicker to install than concrete and incredibly long-lasting. You can have tiles laid along the top of the waterline, giving it a beautiful look. You can also choose from different coloured pools, including grey, blue and white, each of which will affect the colour of the water differently. Plus, you can generally use salt in the water as it won't affect the fibreglass shell. Here are some design options when it comes to the shape and configuration of the pool.

Shapes

An important facet of a pool is its shape. Even though you can't customise a fibreglass pool, you can choose from a variety of shapes and sizes. The exact shapes will depend on the products on offer, but some general choices are rectangle, Roman and freeform. The straight edges of a rectangular pool look clean and modern, and you can complement them with simple landscaping to continue the minimalist theme. For example, you could opt for square-tiled decking with a simple pattern.

An alternative pool shape is the Roman, which is straight on the long edges and curved at the ends. This contour has a classic, timeless look and architectural quality. Its arched ends might remind you of ancient buildings.

A freeform pool will give your yard an entirely different look and feel. These pools curve and wind on the edges, just like a natural body of water, such as a lake or pond. You could create a rock garden nearby and use irregularly shaped tiles on the deck. A fun and lively freeform pool will look at home, surrounded by trees and lawns.

Configurations

It's easy to focus on the shape of the pool, which is understandable as it defines the edges and the aesthetic. But fibreglass pools can differ in terms of what they offer under the water as well. You could choose a pool with a shallow splash deck at one end, where you could sit with your legs dangling over the edge before pushing yourself off and swimming to the deep end. You may prefer a pool with a gradual slope from shallow to deep, which will allow you to walk to the depth you're comfortable with.

Another fibreglass pool may have a different configuration. It may be the same depth the entire length, with a bench seat running down one side. If you want a diving board, you'll need a deep pool to make that a safe activity. Some pools have a spa at one end, which is another appealing feature. A pool builder can help with choosing a configuration that suits your needs.