August 31, 2026
Creating an inground pool involves more than choosing a shape and filling it with water. The planning process can include evaluating the property, determining the pool's position, selecting features, addressing permits and local requirements, coordinating utilities and other contractors, and considering how the pool will connect with the surrounding outdoor space. Professional involvement can bring these elements together into one cohesive project while helping homeowners consider which options fit their property and preferences.
Thoughtful Pool Planning
Assess the Pool Site
The pool planning process begins with a site visit to discuss the property's layout and the homeowner's goals. This includes considering the pool's shape and size, optimal positioning, drainage, safety concerns, fencing, patio options, and other available features. Addressing these considerations during the planning stage helps establish a pool design that works with the property and the surrounding outdoor space.
The site's existing characteristics can influence how the pool and surrounding features are arranged. Discussing these details early also gives homeowners an opportunity to consider how the pool will connect with patios, fencing, landscaping, and other parts of the backyard. This creates a more coordinated approach to the overall project.
Customize the Pool Design
Custom pool planning gives homeowners an opportunity to select the shape, size, and features that fit their property and preferences. Available options include automation, lighting, stair entry systems, saltwater systems, fencing, patios, and other pool features. According to RubyHome, 36% of children and 15% of adults swim in a pool at least 6 times a year.
The available features can be considered alongside the pool's overall layout rather than selected separately. Homeowners can discuss the elements they want to incorporate and determine how those choices fit within the property's available space. This planning process helps create a pool design that reflects the intended use of the backyard.
Coordinate the Pool Project
An inground pool project involves multiple stages and, when necessary, multiple contractors. The planning and construction process can include permitting and material sourcing, along with coordination with utility companies and other contractors. Electrical services are also available as part of the project, helping keep the different elements connected through the construction process.
Coordinating these elements can help keep the pool project organized from the initial planning stages through construction. Utility considerations and other contractor needs can be addressed as they arise within the broader project. This allows the different components of the pool and surrounding outdoor space to be considered together.
Handle Permits and Requirements
Pool construction can involve permits, conservation requirements, zoning considerations, property setbacks, electrical permits, and local fencing requirements. These details can be addressed as part of the pool construction process. Accounting for applicable requirements during planning helps establish a clear direction before construction moves forward.
Considering these requirements early can help homeowners understand what needs to be addressed as part of the project. Permitting and related considerations can also be coordinated alongside the property's layout and planned pool features. This keeps the administrative aspects connected to the overall construction process.
Versatile Pool Features
Select Pool Materials
Material and feature selection is an important part of creating a custom pool. Available options include pool liners, lighting, automation, saltwater systems, entry systems, water features, spas, fencing, and patio and hardscape elements. Considering these components during the design stage allows the finished pool and surrounding outdoor space to reflect the homeowner's preferred features and overall vision.
Add Custom Pool Features
Homeowners can customize an inground pool with a variety of features. Available options include Artisan handrails and ladders, pool entry systems, LED and fiber-optic lighting, saltwater chlorination, pool automation, spillover and poolside spas, robotic cleaners, fountains, and waterfalls. These features can be selected as part of the broader pool design rather than treated as an afterthought.
Add Pool Automation
Pool automation can make it easier to manage selected pool functions. Available systems can control water temperature and cleaning schedules, while other automation features can be used with pool lighting and equipment. Automation can be discussed during the initial planning process as one of the options for customizing the finished pool system.
Choose Efficient Pool Options
Energy-efficient equipment can also be considered when planning a new pool. Available options include variable-speed pumps, LED lighting systems, and efficient electric heat pumps. Saltwater chlorination is another option that can be incorporated into the pool system, allowing homeowners to consider different equipment and technology choices during the design process.
Complete Outdoor Spaces
Enhance the Outdoor Space
Pool design can extend beyond the water itself. Lighting, water features, patios, hardscapes, fencing, spas, and other elements can be incorporated into the backyard project. Landscaping can also be considered as construction progresses, with attention given to the surrounding property and the transition between the pool area and the rest of the yard.
Install Pool Fencing
Pool fencing can be incorporated into the overall backyard design while also addressing applicable local requirements. During the planning process, fencing can be considered alongside the pool's placement, patio, and other features. This approach allows the finished enclosure to work with the surrounding outdoor space.
Build Patios and Hardscapes
Custom patios and hardscapes can extend the usable area around an inground pool. Options include stone patios, poolside surfaces, fire pit areas, and other hardscape elements. Planning these features alongside the pool helps create a cohesive outdoor environment rather than treating the surrounding area as a separate project.
Coordinate Landscaping
Pool construction can affect the surrounding yard, making landscaping another consideration during the overall project. The construction process takes existing property features into account, including irrigation systems encountered during the work. Additional landscaping needs can also be coordinated with recommended partners when appropriate.
Ongoing Pool Care
Schedule Seasonal Openings
Pool care does not necessarily end when construction is complete. Seasonal openings and closings are available for pools built by the company, giving eligible customers an option for professional assistance as the swimming season begins and ends. Planning these services around seasonal pool use can help keep the transition between swimming and non-swimming periods organized.
Maintain Saltwater Systems
Saltwater chlorination is an available pool-system option, and saltwater systems can be installed and maintained. This technology can be incorporated into a custom pool design alongside other equipment and feature choices. It gives homeowners another option to consider when planning the pool system.
Use Robotic Pool Cleaners
Robotic pool cleaners provide another option for ongoing pool care. Available cleaners are designed to remove debris and scrub pool surfaces, with options suited to different pool sizes and shapes. This type of equipment can help reduce the amount of manual cleaning required as part of regular pool upkeep.
Access Emergency Services
Emergency services are also available when customers need assistance outside the scope of routine pool planning and installation. This provides another point of support for customers who require attention to an unexpected pool-related situation. Availability of these services gives homeowners an additional option when an issue requires attention.
Professional planning can help coordinate everything involved in an inground pool project, from site considerations and custom design to permitting, construction, features, and seasonal care. At Oasis Pools Ltd., we provide custom pool construction along with patios, hardscapes, fencing, automation, lighting, spas, and other options for creating a cohesive outdoor space. Learn more about our available pool and backyard solutions to explore what may suit your property and preferences.




