5 Tips to Get a Bigger Pool Than It Is in Real Life

What size is your backyard pool?

The most common pool size and shape is a 16 by 32-foot rectangle. (4.9 by 9.8 meter)

Of course, considering some factors such as faster installation, fit into tighter spaces and more budget-friendly, some homeowners would choose smaller pools.

However, having a small pool doesn't mean it has to look small.

So, back to our topic today - how to make my small swimming pool look bigger?

Smart design choices, like pool lighting, pool wall colors, materials, and decor around the pool, can achieve the goal. Let's check out some smart ways to enhance your pool's visual impact.

1. Pool Illumination

Proper pool lighting makes sense in expanding the perceived size and creating depth of a pool.

Under Coping Pool Light Strip

Installing pool edging LED strip under the pool coping can create an illusion of extended edges, especially at night.

Spotlight Pool on Wall

Using pool underwater lighting can highlight the pool's dimensions and make it appear more expansive.

Underwater Pool Light Strip

Adding underwater pool light strips along the pool wall can enhance depth perception.

String Pool Lighting

Proper lighting around the pool not only brightens up the space but also makes it feel more open and inviting.

2. Pool Color and Material

Color and material choices for pools have a powerful effect on how large a pool looks.

Light Colors Pool

Light-colored liner or tile pools make the water appear more expansive, while dark colors create a deeper effect.

Reflective Surfaces

Using the principle of light reflection wisely. Smooth material like tiles can make the pool look bigger, especially when combined with pool lite.

3. Pool Shape and Design

The pool shape itself can influence its visual size.

Curved Shapes

Freeform and kidney-shaped pools often appear larger than rigid rectangular pools.

4. Pool Accessories and Landscape

Placement of pool accessories and landscaping can influence how the pool is perceived.

Pool Steps & Platforms

Keeping stairs and platforms smaller helps maximize usable swimming space. For this, the best solution is to use a stainless pool ladder instead of concrete steps in the pool.

Landscaping

Surrounding the pool with small plants and open space instead of large shrubs or walls creates a sense of openness.

5. Deck and Surroundings

A well-designed pool deck can make your pool seem more spacious.

Pool Deck

Use matching colors/materials for the pool edge and surrounding deck (like same-color tiles or wood). When the pool and deck "melt together" visually, it tricks your brain into seeing the pool as bigger.

Large-Format Tiles

Bigger tiles or planks make spaces appear larger by reducing visual clutter.

 

Even if your pool is small, you can use design tricks to make it appear much bigger. From pool LEDs to clever material choices, every detail contributes to the illusion of space.

 

Want to enhance your pool lighting for a more spacious effect?

Explore PaneraLux premium pool lighting solutions, including above ground pool lights, underwater pool lights, and stylish outdoor lights to elevate your backyard oasis.