2026 Guide to Custom Pool Architecture in University Park
With a custom pool, your options are nearly limitless. With all the choices available, getting started can feel daunting. In this guide, we’ll explore the top trends, design principles, and architectural considerations for custom pools in University Park, Texas.
With Summerhill Pools • Outdoor Living’s experience, we can help you realize the custom pool of your dreams.
Why University Park Is Ideal for Custom Pool Design
The University Park climate offers many opportunities for residents to enjoy custom pool designs. Hot summers and long pool seasons enable residents to get the most out of their pools.
Choosing the Perfect Pool Style for Your Home
The right pool style can complement your home to create a harmonious environment. Along with the pool style, you’ll want the coping and tiles to complement your home.
The following are some pool styles and the home architecture they can complement.
- Contemporary and Modern Pools: Contemporary and modern pools are defined by minimalist finishes, clean lines, and geometric shapes. They pair well with mid-century, contemporary, and modern homes. A rectangular pool goes well with a classic-style home.
- Natural and Rustic Pools: Natural and rustic pools have natural finishes, waterfalls, stonework, and irregular shapes. They work best with farmhouse-style homes, cabins, and properties surrounded by nature.
- Freeform Pools: Freeform pools feature a more natural look, free of straight lines and sharp corners. The organic shape is reminiscent of the shape of lakes and ponds. Freeform pools pair well with homes in Mediterranean, rustic, or traditional styles.
- Mediterranean Pools: Mediterranean pools integrate curved shapes, earthy tones, lush landscaping, and decorative tiles. These types of pools work well with Tuscan, Mediterranean, and Spanish-style homes.
Luxury Pool Features and Trends for 2026
The following are some pool features and trends for 2026.
- Smart Features: Many features of a swimming pool can be integrated with smart technology. You can control pool lights remotely via an app, and cleaning systems can be automated.
- Multi-Use Spaces: Pools can be used for more than swimming. In-water lounges, sunshelves, built-in steps, and more provide places to relax or visit with friends.
- Environmentally Friendly Technology: Environmentally friendly pool features, such as variable-speed filters, energy-efficient pumps, automatic covers, and solar heating, are attractive to environmentally conscious homeowners.
- Trending Colors: Warm and earthy tones, such as clay, sand, rich chocolate browns, and terracotta, are becoming popular. The ever-popular blues and greens are seeing a turn towards atmospheric and moody shades, such as lush greens and deep blues. More dramatic colors such as charcoal, black, and rich reds and purples are appearing.
Engineering and Materials: Building Pools That Stand the Test of Time
When we were founded in 1989, our founder, Mark McCaffey, set out to build high-quality custom pools that would stand the test of time. Years later, that vision hasn’t changed. We stay up to date on the latest pool technologies and source top-quality materials for our pools. When building pools, the team at Summerhill Pools follows a set process utilizing quality materials to create a pool that lasts.
Transforming Your Backyard: Outdoor Living Beyond the Pool
At Summerhill Pools, we understand that outdoor living doesn’t just have to be about the pool. We can design and install a variety of backyard living features to help you enjoy the University Park weather.
We offer the following outdoor living features:
- Outdoor Kitchens: An outdoor kitchen can help bring the party outside. Whether entertaining guests or fixing yourself a snack, it’s a great way to enjoy the weather in University Park, Texas. Outdoor kitchens can range from simple and functional to elaborate designs.
- Fire Pit: A fire pit makes an excellent place to enjoy cool nights. At Summerhill Pools, we can design a fire pit in a variety of sizes and styles to suit your unique needs.
- Outdoor Fireplaces: Outdoor fireplaces can create a comfortable atmosphere for spending time outdoors in cooler weather. We can design a diverse array of outdoor fireplaces, including designs that are built into walls or free-standing ones. Our outdoor fireplace designs range from traditional to elaborate, like a three-sided design. We offer materials such as stone and brick.
Summerhill Pools’ Tailored Design-Build Process for University Park
Numerous steps go into designing and building a custom pool for your University Park home. Our company follows these steps to create a pool that works for you.
On-site Consultation
We’ll visit your property for an on-site consultation. This allows us to better understand your goals and requirements for your pool and to get to know your property.
Design Process
Once we understand your ideas for your pool and property, we begin the design process. Here, the abstract ideas for a pool begin to take shape. Using 3D pool design software and scaled drawings, we create a design that allows you to see what the finished pool will look like before we break ground.
Estimation
Once we have created the pool design, we’ll look at every element of the custom pool project to develop a cost estimate for the build. We believe in offering a transparent experience, and will present a detailed explanation of the costs involved. Along with pricing, we will also estimate the build’s timeline.
Showroom Visit
When we’ve completed the estimate, you’ll visit our Dallas showroom. Here, you’ll have a chance to view the detailed 3D design of your custom pool. You’ll be able to explore the design as one of our designers takes you through with a virtual walk-through.
Material Selection and Final Revisions
Here, you’ll work with your design consultant to choose the materials for your pool, which will affect both the appearance and functionality of your pool. We’ll help you select materials that complement your property. At this stage, you’ll have the opportunity to make any final revisions.
Permit Drawings and City Submission
When the materials have been selected and any final revisions have been made, we’ll start the construction design documents and permitting phase. In this stage, we plan the pool construction and its timeline. We’ll acquire any necessary permits during this time.
Construction
At the beginning of construction, any necessary demo work will be carried out, and the site will be prepared. The construction process takes 12–16 weeks, depending on the pool’s complexity and weather conditions. During construction, we keep lines of communication open. You’ll receive updates on where we are in the process and whether there are any weather delays. If needed, we will update the timeline based on the situation. We’ll treat your property with respect whenever we are on it.
Contact us for Custom Pools in University Park, Texas
When you partner with a pool builder for a custom pool, you want one that has the ability to do the job right. Summerhill Pools has been helping people with their pools since 1989. From design to construction, we’ll help you realize your custom pool.
Contact us to receive a quote for your custom pool.
FAQs:
How much does a custom pool cost in University Park?
The cost of a custom pool in University Park can vary based on numerous factors, such as the size of the pool, materials used, and features added. Contact us for more information.
Are there neighborhood or zoning restrictions for pools in University Park?
Information on pool regulations in University Park can be found on the Swimming Pool Construction and Maintenance Agreement and the University Park Code of Ordinances. Please note that additional regulations may apply. We will work with you to ensure that all permits and requirements are met in accordance with University Park building permit requirements.
Which architectural style of pool best complements University Park’s classic home designs?
A classic rectangular pool pairs best with a classic home design.
How long does it take to build a custom pool in University Park?
Our pool construction process takes 12 to 16 weeks. Please note that weather conditions can delay your pool construction.
How do you ensure the pool design maintains the architectural integrity of my home?
We take your home and property into account when designing a custom pool. Our custom pool design work begins with a visit to your home to understand the property better.
