Lido: Florilegium, 2x4" Double Pixies, French Press, Gloss. Photo courtesy of Marc-Antoine Roy.

4. Wide, Lounge Style Entry Steps

Wide, lounge-style steps span the length of one side of the pool, offering a spacious platform for sunbathing, socializing, or safely supervising children from the water. Choose oversized porcelain tiles in neutral shades — like sandstone or pewter — to create a continuous look that complements the pool deck.

You can install low-profile handrails on the ends of the steps for stability, or omit rails altogether in favor of integrated, stainless steel grab rails. Broad treads can reduce slip hazards by allowing water to drain quickly, and the shallow depth is ideal for kids to sit and splash in. This is a family-friendly design that doubles as an outdoor living amenity.

5. Sleek, Minimalist Monochrome Steps

A minimalist approach to pool steps uses a single, uninterrupted color palette — often matte black or stark white — to achieve a contemporary aesthetic. Sleek monochrome steps crafted from high-density porcelain tile with a matte or matte grip finish provide uniform traction and a clean look that pairs well with concrete or light wood decking.

A stainless steel handrail can be mounted directly into the top step for swimmers who prefer handrails, while hidden LED strip lighting underneath each tread can ensure nighttime safety without adding clutter. Monochrome steps are the best option for modern pool designs that prioritize simplicity, low maintenance, and a striking visual contrast with the surrounding landscape and outdoor decor.

6. Natural Stone Steps That Blend with the Deck

For a seamless transition between pool and patio, natural stone steps — such as limestone, travertine, or flagstone — offer unmatched durability and slip resistant texture. (Just keep in mind that not all stone tiles are suitable for pool installations.) By matching the stone to the pool deck material, you can create a cohesive look in a single shape and size.

Natural stone is inherently slip resistant, reducing the need for additional safety treatments, and its excellent weatherability ensures minimal color change even after years of sun, rain, and pool chemicals. Installing corner steps in the same stone adds versatility, creating a perfect match between the pool’s shape and the surrounding hardscape.

7. Curvy Entry Steps with Matte Glazed Ceramic

Soft, flowing curves in step design can evoke an oasis-like feel. Matte glazed ceramic tiles come in a variety of shapes — such as small squares and hexagons — that wrap around the shallow end, softening hard edges and guiding swimmers into the water. The matte glaze provides a durable, stain-resistant surface that handles debris and chlorine without sacrificing traction.

Complement these curvy steps with stainless steel handrails for additional safety; the contrast between metal rails and ceramic pool tiles can help highlight the pool’s dynamic contours. Curvy steps are ideal for irregularly shaped pools or hot tub integrations, offering both style and practical water entry points.

8. Integrated Lighting with Reflective Tiles

Incorporating LED lighting into the pool steps enhances nighttime usability and accentuates reflective tiles. Small, low-voltage, water-safe LED strips can be embedded beneath each riser or within the pool deck adjacent to the steps. Pair these lights with glossy glass or polished porcelain tiles that reflect and magnify the glow, creating a shimmering effect that dances across the water’s surface.

Reflective tiles also help reduce debris buildup by allowing for easier cleanup. This option is especially suitable for evening pool parties and enhances safety by clearly delineating step edges for swimmers of all ages. (Just be sure to consider what will offer traction where tile finishes will not.)

9. Contrasting Inlay Designs for a Custom Look

For a bespoke finish, consider contrasting inlays within each step tread — using a secondary tile color or material to outline the step edges. For instance, pure white porcelain steps with thin black porcelain inlays create a high-contrast border that highlights each tread’s shape and adds traction at the nosing.

Stainless steel inlays are also gaining popularity for a modern metallic touch that won’t corrode in chlorine. Custom inlay designs can follow straight lines, curves, or geometric patterns, catering to any pool shape or size. This approach allows you and your client to harmonize the pool stairs design with other hardscape elements, such as fire pits or outdoor kitchens.

10. Architectural Steps with Multi-Level Platforms

Architectural steps feature multiple platforms at varying heights, providing distinct zones for lounging, entry, and shallow-water play. These tiered steps can range from a wide bench at 12 inches deep to a narrower 6-inch “peek-a-boo” step, accommodating different swimmer abilities and ages. Consider covering each platform with durable ceramic tile that offers slip resistance and easy drainage.

For added stability, you can include a recessed handrail or attach a removable stainless steel handrail. Multi-level platforms maximize the usable space in the shallow end, turning the pool into a versatile entertainment hub that caters to swimmers and sunbathers alike.

Choosing the right pool steps design is essential for combining functionality, safety, and style in any modern swimming pool. From floating glass-accented treads to terraced ceramic and integrated lighting, there’s a design to suit every taste, budget, and installation requirement. Remember to consider key factors such as slip resistance, material durability, accessibility, and ease of maintenance — especially if your client has kids or plans frequent gatherings.