Photo credit: Ruta Smith, Charleston Home + Design
Crafting the perfect pool is about more than just choosing a design. It’s about creating luxury that transforms your outdoor space into an at-home retreat. Whether you dream of the timeless elegance of an inground pool or the bold, modern appeal of an elevated pool, each offers unique benefits tailored to your property and lifestyle.
Inground Pools: A Timeless Classic
In-ground pools are a highly common type of residential pool, offering a seamless and versatile option for almost any property. These pools are constructed by excavating and installing the pool directly into the ground, creating a sleek and integrated look.
Benefits of Inground Pools
Inground pools have long been a popular choice for homeowners seeking a balance of elegance, functionality and flexibility. Here’s why they continue to be a top option.
Customizable Design Options
With inground pools, the design possibilities are nearly endless. From zero-entry pools and lap pools to freeform designs with built-in spas, you can customize your pool to match your lifestyle and aesthetic.
Blends with Your Landscape
An inground pool integrates naturally into your yard, creating a cohesive and polished look. It’s perfect for homeowners who want a pool that complements their outdoor space without overpowering its surroundings.
Cost-Effective
While the cost depends on size, materials and features, inground pools are often more budget-friendly to install compared to elevated pools, especially on flat terrain.
Larger Pool Dimensions
Inground pools are an excellent choice for families or avid swimmers, providing space for relaxing, exercising or entertaining.
Considerations for Inground Pools
- Contrary to popular belief, you can build an inground pool on sloped terrain. (We have built plenty ourselves!) Depending on the extent of the landscape’s slope—in the Lowcountry’s mostly flat terrain—the design can morph into a partially elevated pool.
- And while building a partially elevated pool can be more costly than an in-ground pool, this can often lead to incredible payoff with stunning designs (like the pool featured in this blog).
Elevated Pools: A Modern Statement
Elevated pools, also known as raised or deck-level pools, sit above ground level, often at the height of an existing deck or platform. They provide a stunning solution for homeowners looking to make a bold design statement or work with unique terrain.
Benefits of Elevated Pools
Elevated pools offer a combination of stunning design and practical solutions for unique landscapes. Standout benefits of this type include:
Perfect for Sloped or Challenging Terrain
Elevated pools are ideal for homes on hills, uneven landscapes or coastal properties built on pilings. They eliminate the need for extensive excavation and make the most of challenging terrain.
Unobstructed Views
Elevated pools allow you to enjoy breathtaking views of marshes, oceans or wooded areas, especially when paired with features like infinity edges.
Architectural Impact
These pools are a bold statement piece. With materials like concrete, stone or glass, elevated pools can elevate the design of your outdoor space, making it feel luxurious and unique.
Multi-Use Space
Space beneath an elevated pool can be used for storage, shaded seating or housing pool equipment, making it a practical option for homes with limited outdoor space.
Natural Flood Protection
Elevated pools are a durable choice for Lowcountry properties in coastal areas prone to storm surges and flooding. This makes them a durable choice for Lowcountry properties.
Considerations for Elevated Pools
- Higher Upfront Cost: The structural engineering and materials needed for elevated pools often make them more expensive than inground options.
- Material Sensitivity: Coastal environments can accelerate the corrosion of certain materials, so it’s essential to use high-quality, durable finishes.
- Maintenance Complexity: Repairs or access to the pool’s structure and systems can be more challenging compared to inground pools.
Which pool is right for my property?
Our trusted South Carolina pool experts are ready to help. This quick comparison of key features can help point you in the right direction.
| Feature | Inground Pools | Elevated Pools |
| Cost | Lower upfront cost | Higher upfront cost |
| Terrain Suitability | Best for flat properties | Ideal for extremely sloped land |
| Design Customization | Highly flexible | Bold, modern architectural impact |
| Views | Ground-level, uninterrupted views | Elevated, scenic views |
| Space Use | No usable space underneath | Multi-use space below |
| Maintenance | Easier access and repairs | Potentially more complex |
Still unsure which option is right for you? Consulting with a trusted pool builder is an excellent place to start. The right partner can answer questions and provide connections to contractors, architects, landscapers and more to ensure a seamless pool design and building process.
Find the right pool for you.
As the Lowcountry’s premier custom pool builder, Aqua Blue Pools is ready to bring your dream pool to life. Since 1991, our team has designed and built pools in various styles for residential and commercial clients from South Carolina’s Lowcountry to Savannah. We are proud to work closely with our clients to create and execute impressive custom projects built to last. Contact us today to begin planning your project!