How to Get Your Dream Pool with Custom Pool Designs

A backyard pool isn’t just a place to cool off on a hot day—it’s a personal retreat, an entertainment hub, and a reflection of your lifestyle. But to create a pool that truly matches your vision, you need more than a standard blueprint. You need a custom pool design that’s tailored to your space, preferences, and the way your family lives.

At Family Time Pools, we believe every backyard deserves a unique design that blends beauty, function, and craftsmanship. Whether you dream of a modern infinity pool, a tropical lagoon, or a simple geometric design, custom pools allow you to transform your outdoor space into something extraordinary.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get your dream pool with a custom pool design, from planning and budgeting to design inspiration and construction.

1. Why Choose a Custom Pool Design?

Every homeowner’s lifestyle and backyard are different, and a custom pool design ensures your pool fits both perfectly. Instead of settling for pre-made templates or standard shapes, a custom design allows you to:

• Personalize the shape, size, and depth to suit your property

• Incorporate unique features like waterfalls, tanning ledges, or spas

• Match your home’s architecture and landscape aesthetics

• Maximize functionality for relaxation, exercise, or entertaining

A custom design turns your backyard into a true extension of your home—not just another pool. It’s an investment in comfort, creativity, and long-term enjoyment.

Pro Tip: The design stage is the best time to dream big. Your pool builder can help refine your ideas into something beautiful and realistic for your space and budget.

2. Start with a Vision

Before diving into design details, start by defining your vision. Ask yourself:

• What do I want to use my pool for—exercise, leisure, or family fun?

• What design style matches my home: modern, natural, or classic?

• How much maintenance am I willing to handle?

• Do I want additional features like a spa, slide, or fire pit?

Gather inspiration from magazines, Pinterest, or pool design galleries to clarify your preferences. When you meet with a pool designer, having visuals ready helps communicate your ideas clearly.

At Family Time Pools, we encourage clients to share photos, sketches, or mood boards. These tools help our design team bring your vision to life through professional renderings and layout options.

3. Evaluate Your Backyard Space

Every custom pool design starts with understanding your property’s unique characteristics. Factors such as yard size, slope, sun exposure, and soil type all influence what’s possible.

Our experts at Family Time Pools conduct a detailed site assessment to determine:

• The most efficient placement for sunlight and shade

• The best elevation for water drainage

• How to balance pool size with other outdoor features like patios or gardens

By tailoring the design to your property, we ensure your pool not only looks stunning but functions perfectly within your landscape.

Did You Know? A well-placed pool can also increase your home’s resale value by up to 7%, especially when it complements your outdoor living space.

4. Plan Your Budget Wisely

Budgeting for a custom pool design is an essential step that ensures your dream pool stays realistic. Custom pools can vary in cost depending on:

• Size and depth

• Materials (tile, plaster, or pebble finishes)

• Add-ons like waterfalls, spas, or lighting

• Landscaping and decking

At Family Time Pools, we help homeowners design within their budget by offering multiple options and upgrades. Our transparent pricing means no surprises—just clear communication from start to finish.

Pro Tip: Investing in high-quality materials and energy-efficient equipment (like variable-speed pumps) can save money on maintenance and utilities over time.

5. Design Features That Elevate Your Pool

A truly custom pool design goes beyond shape and color—it’s about creating a full experience. Here are some design elements that can take your pool from simple to spectacular:

Water Features

Waterfalls, fountains, and bubblers add sound, motion, and a sense of tranquility.

Lighting

LED lighting can transform your pool at night, creating ambiance and safety.

Landscaping

Surround your pool with plants, stonework, or palm trees for a natural and private feel.

Baja Shelves and Beach Entries

Perfect for lounging, sunbathing, or letting kids splash safely in shallow areas.

Fire Features

Fire bowls or built-in fire pits make your pool area usable year-round.

At Family Time Pools, our designers integrate these features seamlessly into your layout so the entire backyard feels cohesive and inviting.

6. Collaborate with an Experienced Designer

The success of your custom pool design depends heavily on your pool builder’s expertise. That’s why choosing a company that offers personalized design services is essential.

Family Time Pools has years of experience crafting one-of-a-kind pools across Sacramento and

Northern California. Our process includes:

• A one-on-one consultation to discuss goals and inspiration

• A 3D design rendering to visualize your future pool

• A detailed construction plan outlining materials, costs, and timelines

This collaborative approach ensures that every element—from tile selection to lighting placement—is customized to your taste.

Fun Fact: Many of our clients are surprised by how much input they have in shaping their design. We believe the best pools come from teamwork between builder and homeowner.

7. Think Beyond the Pool

A dream pool isn’t complete without considering the entire outdoor living environment. Custom design means integrating your pool with patios, pergolas, outdoor kitchens, and seating areas to create a seamless retreat.

When designing your backyard, consider adding:

• An outdoor dining area for family gatherings

• Shade structures or cabanas for comfort during Sacramento’s hot summers

• Energy-efficient pool equipment for easier maintenance and lower costs

Family Time Pools can help you plan a full backyard transformation that’s both functional and stunning.

8. Trust the Process

Building a custom pool is an exciting journey that requires patience and collaboration. While timelines vary, the typical process includes:

1. Design consultation and approval

2. Permits and site preparation

3. Excavation and structural work

4. Plumbing, electrical, and equipment installation

5. Finishing touches like tile, decking, and landscaping

Our team keeps you updated every step of the way so you know exactly what to expect. We take pride in completing projects on schedule while maintaining exceptional craftsmanship.

9. Maintain Your Custom Pool for Longevity

Once your dream pool is complete, proper maintenance is key to keeping it in perfect shape. Regular cleaning, chemical balancing, and inspections prevent costly repairs and preserve your pool’s beauty.

At Family Time Pools, we offer ongoing maintenance services tailored to your system and schedule, ensuring your investment continues to sparkle for years.

Final Thoughts

A custom pool design gives you the freedom to create a backyard that perfectly fits your lifestyle, taste, and space. From the first sketch to the finishing tile, your pool should be as unique as you are.

At Family Time Pools, we specialize in turning dreams into reality. Our experienced designers and builders guide you through every step, ensuring the final result is both stunning and functional.

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Family Time Pools today to schedule your custom pool design consultation and start building your backyard paradise.