Exploring Roman-Style Swimming Pools: Design, Benefits, & Décor

Exploring Roman-Style Swimming Pools: Design, Benefits, & Décor

When you’re interested in adding a swimming pool to your property, you have several styles and shapes to choose from. One popular option is the Roman-style pool. This unique design provides homeowners with several features.

What a Roman-Style Swimming Pool Looks Like

A Roman swimming pool combines straight lines and curves. It looks like a rectangle with a small semicircle affixed to each of the narrow ends of the pool. This ultimately creates a long narrow shape with flat sides, 90-degree corners, and curved ends.

Roman swimming pools are sometimes mixed up with Greek swimming pools. However, Greek swimming pools traditionally look like rectangles with small curves cut out of each corner. Unlike a Roman pool, a Greek pool’s narrow ends are flat instead of curved.

The Benefits of Roman-Style Swimming Pools

This style is a little different from a standard rectangular swimming pool, but it’s still a relatively straightforward design. A homeowner who chooses a Roman-style pool gets a simple elegant shape that stands out. The curved ends often feature steps leading into the pool, benches for people to sit on, or fountains to add visual interest to the pool.

Another benefit is the fact that the two curved ends of the pool are often shallow or contain steps. This provides two separate entryways into the pool so you can enter and exit with ease. In many designs, the arches at the ends of the pool also create broad shallow areas that are ideal for sitting and relaxing in the pool

Things to Know before You Choose a Roman Swimming Poo

Roman pools aren’t a good fit for everyone. The semicircular ends give the pool a longer footprint without increasing the swimming area of the pool. If you’re interested in a pool for swimming laps, the benches or steps on the ends of the pool can get in your way. 

Another thing to consider is that Roman pools have slightly smaller footprints than rectangular pools of the same width and length. The missing corners of these pools will reduce the overall amount of water area you have. Depending on your needs, this might be a pro or a con of having a Roman swimming pool.

Décor Options for Roman-Style Swimming Pools

It’s a common misconception that a pool can only be a Roman pool if it’s surrounded by columns and classical statues. While Roman-style décor is certainly a popular choice, it’s not a requirement. This pool shape is extremely versatile. The clean lines and strong geometric shapes can pair very nicely with modern décor. Some homeowners like to use sleek artificial stone surroundings and contemporary patio furniture. Others prefer a more traditional look with potted plants and chaise lounges. Whatever you choose, it’s easy to work this pool shape into your landscape.

No matter which type of pool you prefer, make sure to have your swimming pool built by experienced professionals. From unique pool construction to custom pool design, San Diego Pools can satisfy your every need. Give us a call today, and we’ll get started on designing the pool you’ve always dreamed of.