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2022 Pool Trends: Experts Reveal Top 6 Popular Designs and Features

Ornella Bianco

Published on June 2, 2022

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2022 Pool Trends: Experts Reveal Top 6 Popular Designs and Features

We reveal the results of a survey to 40 construction experts who share their insights on what they believe will be the biggest pool trends in 2022.

To provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information, we consult a number of sources when producing each article, including licensed contractors and industry experts.

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As summer approaches and temperatures begin to rise, the luxury of having a pool in your backyard allows you to cool-off, hangout, and have fun. Whatever your reason for wanting a pool may be, following current pool trends will help you decide which feature or style is best for you.

That’s why we asked top home building and design experts to weigh in and share what they believe are going to be the biggest swimming pool trends this year. With the average cost to install a swimming pool in 2022 being anywhere between $20,000 and $110,000, you are going to want to make the most informed decision to match your wants and needs.

Take a look at what the 40 industry professionals we surveyed in our Outdoor Living Trends report claim will be the top 6 2022 pool trends.

1. Saltwater Pools

56% of experts believe that saltwater pools are going to be the biggest trend this year. There isn’t much difference in terms of installation process to that of other pools, yet there are some plus points of having saltwater instead of chlorine. A saltwater pool is popular due to the fact that they cost less in chemicals yearly. There is no need to add weekly chlorine, which adds up in terms of maintenance costs overall. Other benefits of opting for a saltwater pool instead of using chlorine is that the water is softer and less harsh on skin, hair, and eyes. You also avoid the smell of chlorine. The average cost to install a saltwater pool ranges from $30,000 - $70,000.

2. Small / Plunge Pools

Having a smaller sized pool or a plunge pool can save you greatly on space, which is a good option especially if your outside living area is limited. 50% of experts say that these types of pools will be the most popular in 2022. They are not designed for swimming, but instead a way of cooling off during the warmer months of the year. Other than the obvious benefit of saving on space, a smaller pool will also result in lower costs due to the lesser need for materials. The average cost range to install a plunge pool is $12,000 to $22,000

3. Tanning Ledge / Baja Shelf

A tanning ledge or, as it is sometimes also referred to as, a baja shelf are very shallow areas of a pool that allow for easy access. They are shallow enough to be able to lay or sit down without the need to swim or be completely submerged. 41% of industry pros say that these types of pool designs will be one of the most popular in 2022. One other option that tanning ledges allow for is to place a sunbed or two on them for extra comfort. You can also add waterproof shading, such as cantilever umbrellas or sail shades.

4. LED Lights

38% of experts believe that LED lights will be one of the top swimming pool trends this year. There are two key benefits to LED lights being installed in a swimming pool. Firstly, if you plan on hosting evening guests in your outdoor living space, or indeed in the pool itself, LED lights create a welcoming and luxurious atmosphere. Secondly, having lights on afterdark adds an extra layer of safety. People will be able to clearly see the pool thanks to the brightness LED lights can produce. They are also energy efficient, explaining to some extent their popularity. Adding lighting to a pool can cost between $450 to $1,200 on average.

5. Infinity-style / Seamless Pools

Infinity-style pools, also known as seamless pools, are a pool design which has one or more edges that are the same level as or lower than the water. This sleek look gives a modern feel to the pool design and the backyard as a whole. According to 35% of industry experts, infinity pools will be one of the biggest pool trends in 2022. However, they are one of the most expensive pool styles, costing an average of between $100,000 and $150,000.

6. Natural Elements

Another one of the most popular 2022 pool trends, according to 24% of professionals, are natural elements. This is another design style trend which incorporates, as it states, natural elements. These can include plants, rocks, and water features, to give the feeling of a less artificial pool. This style is mainly used to bring a feeling of peace and tranquility to your backyard, embracing the benefits of nature.

If you're considering installing a pool in your outdoor living space in time for summer, be sure to take note of the trends the top design experts suggest are going to be most popular. Their insights allow you to make informed decisions about which style, design, and type can work best for you.

Author:
Ornella Bianco is a home improvement content specialist at Fixr.com. As an interior design enthusiast, she is always researching home renovation projects and communicating advice to homeowners through our reports and visualizations.