Swimming pool water colour and designs

Pools are just as susceptible to changes in fashion as other parts of the home, especially when it comes to colour. Current trends in swimming pool water colours, paving and other features reflect styles that are in vogue overseas, as well as a general desire to 'get back to nature'.

According to Cathy Fletcher of Distinctive Pools & Spas, the top colour choice for swimming pool water at the moment is a natural-looking light green. Black pools are also very popular, but don't worry, they're not as sinister and murky as the mental imagery might suggest. "Black pools are pools that are lined with tiny black tiles, or at least very dark tiles - the swimming pool water is clear," explains Cathy. A deep blue tone is the third most favoured choice in swimming water colour among Distinctive's clients.

In pool paving, drifting sandstone – the more common yellowy-white sandstone that comes in large blocks – is the material of choice for those with a bit of money to spend on their new pool. Travertine, a type of natural stone with small holes and grooves that make it look 'old', is also a popular choice for pools and surrounds.

Tuscan-inspired feature walls using neutral-coloured stone are a strong trend. Aubergine (a dark purplish tone) and mustard are also popular colour choices for feature walls.

Cathy believes that Australian consumers tend to be influenced by overseas trends in swimming pool water colour and design: whichever tones are big in LA will soon find their way into Australian pools. Glossy magazines, with their aspirational feel, can also influence the colour choices of Australian pool buyers.

Go Green with your Swimming Pool Water Choice

The current interest in environmental sustainability may also be a reason for consumers choosing more natural tones for their swimming pool water. Water of a subtle green or darker blue, and paving that looks rustic and untreated, give the appearance of being more in tune with the environment than the traditional 'chemical blue' water or garish paving and features.

As we all know, trends come and go, but Cathy doesn't believe in getting too heavy handed with clients who seem intent on making a faddish colour choice. "We suggest to clients that a particular swimming pool water colour or design may tire, but it's always their choice," she says.