5 Pool Design Mistakes to Avoid (And How to Fix Them)

Designing your backyard pool involves many decisions that will impact your enjoyment for years to come. At Cosmic, we've helped many homeowners create stunning outdoor spaces. Through our experience, we've identified common design mistakes that can turn your dream pool into a source of frustration.

Here are the five most frequent pool design mistakes we see—and how to avoid or fix them.

1. Inadequate Pool Lighting

Many homeowners focus exclusively on how their pool looks during the day, forgetting that proper lighting extends usability into evening hours while enhancing safety and atmosphere.

The Problem:

• Safety hazards during evening swimming or gatherings

• Limited nighttime use, reducing your investment's value

• Missed opportunities for nighttime enjoyment

The Solution:

Implement a thoughtful lighting plan that includes:

• Underwater LED lights strategically placed around the pool

• Pathway lighting around walkways and transitions

• Ambient lighting for seating and dining areas

• Security lighting that enhances both safety and aesthetics

Working with a professional lighting designer ensures both functionality and appeal after dark. The investment in quality lighting typically adds only 5-8% to your project cost but significantly extends your pool's usability.

2. Neglecting Shade Options

The appeal of sunshine often leads homeowners to create pool spaces without adequate shade—a decision they quickly regret during the first heatwave.

The Problem:

• Uncomfortably hot seating areas during peak hours

• Increased UV exposure and health risks

• Limited enjoyment during the hottest times of day

The Solution:

Incorporate diverse shade strategies:

• Pergolas or pavilions that add architectural interest

• Strategically placed trees (positioned to minimize debris)

• Quality umbrellas or retractable awnings for flexible coverage

• Built-in umbrella sleeves in strategic deck locations

A professional pool designer can analyze sun patterns to determine optimal placement of both your pool and shade elements.

3. Poor Traffic Flow Planning

Even the most beautiful pool can become frustrating if the surrounding space feels cramped or awkwardly arranged.

The Problem:

• Congested areas during gatherings

• Wet feet tracking through inappropriate spaces

• Safety hazards from crowded walkways

• Inefficient connections between pool, house, and yard features

The Solution:

Create a sensible layout with:

• Distinct areas for active use and relaxation

• Minimum 3-foot wide walkways around the entire pool

• Wider pathways (5+ feet) for main circulation routes

• Clear transition zones between wet and dry areas

• Thoughtful placement of furniture that doesn't obstruct movement

Good traffic flow isn't just about convenience—it significantly impacts safety, especially for families with children or when entertaining guests.

4. Skipping Proper Soil Preparation

What lies beneath your pool is just as important as what you can see above ground.

The Problem:

• Settling that causes cracks in the pool structure or surrounding deck

• Uneven surfaces that create tripping hazards

• Expensive repairs that could have been prevented

• Shortened lifespan of your investment

The Solution:

Invest in thorough site preparation:

• Professional soil testing before excavation begins

• Proper compaction techniques throughout construction

• Addressing drainage issues before they become problems

• Using appropriate base materials specific to your soil type

Working with experienced pool builders who don't cut corners on foundation work pays off in long-term durability and reduced maintenance costs.

5. Overlooking Proper Drainage

Water management around your pool is critical yet often overlooked.

The Problem:

• Standing water creating slippery surfaces

• Erosion around pool edges and landscaping

• Water damage to nearby structures

• Algae growth in consistently damp areas

The Solution:

Implement comprehensive drainage solutions:

• Ensure deck surfaces have a 1/4" slope per foot away from the pool

• Install channel drains in strategic locations

• Use permeable materials for pathways where appropriate

• Create a landscape grading plan that directs water away from both pool and home

Proper drainage planning protects your investment and enhances safety around your pool area.

Planning Your Perfect Pool

Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure your backyard pool provides years of enjoyment without costly corrections down the road. Our experienced design team specializes in thoughtful, functional designs that anticipate and prevent these issues before they arise.

Ready to discuss your pool project? Contact us today for a consultation to create a backyard pool that's both beautiful and practical.