Pool Design California

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black blue and yellow textile

black blue and yellow textile

California has one of the world’s most recognisable pool design styles: modern, minimal, sun-drenched, and architecturally clean. Whether you're in Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange County, Palm Springs or the Bay Area, California pool design is shaped by climate, backyard size, landscaping trends, and a love for that indoor–outdoor lifestyle.

On this page you’ll learn:

The key features of California pool design
Popular pool shapes, materials & colours
How climate and architecture influence your pool
Real examples of California-style pools
How to preview a California pool inside your own backyard photo

What Makes California Pool Design Unique?

California pools are shaped by:

Climate

California's warm, dry climate means:

High use of light-coloured interiors
Drought-tolerant landscaping
Large sun shelves (Baja shelves)
Pool designs that stay cool under heat

Architecture

Modern California homes favour:

Straight geometric pools
Slim plunge pools for tight backyards
Concrete coping in neutral tones
Glass fencing (LA, Orange County)
Mid-century lines (Palm Springs style)

Smaller Urban Backyards

Many homes in LA, San Diego and the Bay Area have smaller, narrower yards, which makes:

6×3
7×3
8×4
Slim lap pools

…extremely popular.

Popular Pool Designs in California

Here's what homeowners are choosing right now

1.6x3 or 7x3 Modern Geometric Pools

Clean lines, perfect for small lots in SoCal

2. Baja Shelf/ Sun Shelf Pools

A signature California look, shallow lounging area for relaxing in the water.

3. Fully-Tiled Luxury Pools

Popular in luxury homes and hillside properties.

3. Fully-Tiled Luxury Pools

Popular in luxury homes and hillside properties.