Colorwerks: Fondant, 4x4" Petite, Amber Waves, Matte Grip

4. Poolside Fire Features for Year-Round Enjoyment

Pairing water and fire elements creates a captivating focal point in any backyard. Built-in fire pits, linear fire features, or standalone fire bowls adjacent to the pool provide warmth during cooler months and an ambiance that invites conversation. They are especially great for properties that aim to have a high-end, resort-like atmosphere — one that extends well past daylight hours.

Fire features also bring an additional opportunity to incorporate tile into your landscape. Try combining these features with weather-durable tiles to create a cohesive and long-lasting design. Incorporating yellow mosaic porcelain tiles and larger red porcelain tiles, in particular, can enhance the warm look.

One challenge with poolside fire features can be ensuring proper gas line installation and adhering to local fire safety codes. However, the benefit is a significantly extended usable season for the outdoor space — not to mention the dramatic visuals.

5. Elevated Pool With a Raised Deck

For homeowners who want to make a bold architectural statement, an elevated pool or above-ground pool with a raised deck offers a unique solution. This design can create a sense of separation from the rest of the backyard, providing a more private, spa-like atmosphere. It’s highly suitable for sloped or uneven terrain, offering a practical way to level the pool area without extensive excavation. We love this option for compact yards, too.

For a modern approach, opt for straight lines and nonporous tiles to maintain a smart and polished aesthetic. (We love the look of dark glazed porcelain mosaic tiles, such as these pixies in Rorschach Black.)

A key challenge with elevated pools is the increased cost and structural engineering required to support the pool’s weight and ensure proper waterproofing. However, the benefits include integrating storage or mechanical equipment beneath the deck, maximizing the functionality of the outdoor space.

6. Plunge Pool for an Urban Yard

Urban yards often face size constraints, but plunge pools offer the perfect balance between functionality and style. Compact yet inviting, these small pools can be enhanced with warm lighting, textured tiles, or integrated water features. Their versatility makes them an excellent option for modern-style pools in city homes.

A wide variety of tiles can make this type of pool shine, but we’re especially fond of seeing water colored porcelain tile ideas here. Light blue hex porcelain tiles and minty green rectangular porcelain tiles are both solid choices. Whichever you specify, all of those quick, refreshing dips are sure to come with a dose of relaxation.

One important consideration with plunge pools in an urban setting is privacy. Designers tend to incorporate high walls and strategic landscaping in these areas. However, the benefits — including lower water usage and easier maintenance — typically make the overall investment worthwhile.

7. Resort Inspired Pool With Sunken Seating

Bring a touch of vacation luxury to your home with a resort-inspired pool design that features sunken seating areas. These integrated spaces allow for relaxation and socializing while keeping cool. It’s an excellent approach for clients who imagine themselves hosting cocktail hours and parties in their outdoor space. We love seeing multicolored mosaic porcelain tiles in these spaces.

These designs often require significant horizontal space to accommodate the pool itself as well as the integrated seating area. While the structural complexity of creating a waterproof, integrated seating area poses a challenge, the payoff is substantial. The primary benefits include a highly social environment that facilitates interaction without leaving the water, plus a high-end, bespoke aesthetic that significantly boosts property value.

8. Waterfall Features for Tranquility

Waterfall features add a soothing element to any modern pool. Whether it’s a cascading sheet of water over a stone wall or a gentle trickle from a tiled structure, these elements enhance the overall ambiance. They’re suitable for intimate suburban backyards and sprawling luxury estates alike, as the scale of the waterfall can be customized to fit the space.

Unlike other areas like the pool deck, where slip-resistance is of the utmost importance, this is one place where you can explore a wider variety of tile materials and finishes. (Think: glass and glossy porcelain.) Minty green mosaic tiles would be beautiful here.

Waterfalls are especially effective when integrated into a pool's perimeter wall or a grotto, creating a sense of separation and intimacy. Two key considerations are 1) needing to incorporate additional plumbing and 2) the maintenance required to prevent mineral buildup on the tiled surfaces. However, the immense benefit of creating a spa-like, calming environment makes these worthwhile investments.

9. Multi-Level Pool for a Dynamic Space

For properties with uneven terrain, multi-level pools are an innovative solution that maximizes the available space. These designs often feature interconnected levels with unique shapes and details, such as hot tubs or wading areas. They are particularly well-suited for large, dynamic properties or those with significant elevation changes.

By combining different tile finishes across levels, such as travertine and porcelain, you can create a dynamic aesthetic that complements the location. Alternatively, you might opt for the same type of tile through to create a cohesive look.

This residential pool design often requires a greater footprint than a single-level pool, demanding careful spatial planning to ensure smooth transitions between sections. These pools also require complex engineering, increasing both design and construction costs. However, they offer segmented functionality (like a shallow sun shelf, a deep swimming area, and an integrated spa) as well as a visually dramatic aesthetic that significantly enhances the property’s architectural appeal.

10. Freeform Pool With an Organic Shape

Freeform pools bring a natural, organic feel to modern pool design. Perfect for integrating with lush landscaping, these pools mimic the curves of a natural pond or lagoon. They’re also highly adaptable to irregular or challenging yard shapes, offering a way to maximize a space where a traditional rectangle wouldn't fit.

The sky’s the limit when it comes to materials here. Incorporating natural tile materials such as slate and brick on or around the pool deck can help enhance the pool’s connection to the environment while maintaining its contemporary appeal.

One potential challenge with freeform pools is that the curved edges can sometimes complicate the installation of tile, automatic pool covers, and the like. However, their benefit lies in their ability to blend seamlessly with landscaping and to provide an inviting visual contrast to the straight lines of a modern home.

Tile Tips for a Modern Residential Pool Design

Selecting the right tile is critical to achieving the desired look and functionality for your modern pool. Here are six things to consider, from slip resistance and porosity to pool color ideas and finishes (not to mention local regulations).

Consider Slip Resistance

Safety is a top priority in any pool area. Choose slip-resistant tiles for high-traffic areas, such as patios, pool decks, and steps, to minimize the risk of accidents, especially during warm summer months when the pool area is in constant use.

Our Colorwerks collection is a great place to start, with matte-grip finish options that offer much-needed traction in wet areas.

Choose Nonporous Tiles for the Waterline

The waterline is one of the most exposed areas of a pool — it must be able to withstand water, humidity, extreme heat, freezing temperatures in cold climates, and then some. Tiling the waterline with nonporous tiles, such as porcelain tiles, resist moisture absorption, which prevents issues like discoloration and mildew.

Another key reason to opt for nonporous tiles? Freeze-thaw cycles. Porous tiles allow water to penetrate the surface and then freeze, which can cause cracks over time. Choosing nonporous tiles ensures the pool maintains its clean lines and pristine appearance over time.

Prioritize Weather Durability

Needless to say, outdoor pools are exposed to the elements year-round. Opt for weather-durable tiles that can withstand fluctuating temperatures, including freeze-thaw cycles. Porcelain tiles, for example, are an excellent choice for their resilience and low maintenance.

In addition, be sure to check a tile’s resistance to heat and UV exposure. Porcelain tiles are also a solid option here.