Pool shapes: freeform, kidney, geometric, L-shaped, lagoon and plunge

Pool Research says the right shape depends on the size and shape of the yard and on how the pool will be used, and that for lap swimming or exercise a simpler design such as a rectangle is the better fit.

The free visualizer draws six shapes: rectangle, Roman end, freeform, kidney, L-shape and a rectangle with cut corners, which this page calls geometric. A plunge pool is a small pool, so it can take any of them.

Latham describes freeform as an organic shape that can have dramatic curves for a modern look or a relaxed, wavy outline that gives the most swimming space. It says the range of sizes and styles can fit any backyard design.

Poolonomics calls it a pool of any shape or size with curves, also sold as lagoon, Key West or pond style, and says the only limit is your land and your budget.

Latham describes a kidney pool as rounded at each end and curving inward along one side, with an asymmetrical shape that suits smaller spaces and a contemporary look. It can include swim-up seating and slip-resistant steps.

Pool Research and Poolonomics both say the curves suit a waterfall or fountain, because the water circulates instead of crashing against the edge. Pool Research also lists a straight kidney, with a straight back that makes laps easier than a traditional kidney.

Poolonomics describes geometric pools as having no curves, with sharp lines and angles that can run in any direction. It says they suit an owner who wants a tight space filled tastefully, or a large open yard turned into a feature, and that they are highly customizable.

Pool Research calls the rectangle the easiest to install, which can lower the cost, and not the most creative shape. It describes the Grecian, a rectangle with its corners softened, as a timeless look that can be a bit smaller than a rectangle pool. The visualizer draws it with the corners cut at 45 degrees.

Latham says an L-shaped pool easily separates the shallow end from the deeper end, can include a tanning ledge or a wading area, and works when the pool has to wrap around an immovable feature or a landscaping element. It comes in a true L with hard lines or a lazy L with curves.

Poolonomics adds that an L suits an oddly shaped backyard or a courtyard, and that it can serve as a lap pool and a lounge pool at once. A hot tub in the empty corner can make the whole outline a rectangle again.

Pool Research describes a lagoon as a freeform pool that resembles a natural lagoon, often surrounded by plants and shrubs, for an owner who wants a natural look and mostly lounging. It says a lagoon is not ideal for swimming. A double lagoon has two sections jutting out and puts looks ahead of laps.

Poolonomics treats lagoon as another name for freeform. In the visualizer, freeform is drawn with soft, lagoon-like curves.

Pool Research, which also calls it a dipping pool, describes a plunge pool as a small alternative to a standard pool, chosen when space is limited. Most are 6 to 12 feet wide and 8 to 22 feet long, the most common sizes are about 6 by 12 or 8 by 8 feet, and they are rarely deeper than six feet. It says you might not be swimming laps in one.

On cost, the same page says a concrete plunge pool runs at least $20,000 and closer to $40,000 depending on measurements. Our planning model uses $20,000 to $40,000 for a small concrete pool. A planning range from published sources, not a quote.