The Lowcountry backyard is moving toward a new standard of luxury. To help you navigate these changes, we’re opening up the conversation by launching a weekly series where we’ll dive into the latest in pool trends in 2026. Join us in our first Poolside Chat as we discuss how to transform your outdoor living space into the ultimate sanctuary.
The Silhouette
“We’ve seen curvy shaped pools come and go, but how are we shaping water going into 2026?”
We are witnessing a definitive departure from the organic, freeform curves in favor of sharper, more architecturally-inclined designs. According to our 2026 trend forecast, the ‘Modern and Architectural’ aesthetic is quickly becoming the go-to, with designers pivoting toward clean lines, and geometric silhouettes. We see this most clearly in the surge of Cocktail and Plunge Pools. No longer seen as ‘downsized’ options, these compact, linear basins offer a high-end feel that fits seamlessly into modern landscapes. Whether it’s a long, narrow lap pool or a perfectly square plunge pool, the 2026 shape is all about intentionality and architectural symmetry.
The Palette
“While the vibrant turquoise pool will always be a summer staple, 2026 is ushering in an era of ‘Quiet Luxury’ for the backyard. How are we pivoting toward a moodier palette that blends with the landscape rather than competing with it?”
We’re leaving the bright plastered pools in 2025. Designers are moving away from white plaster and instead embracing a more curated palette. While softer, muted blues continue to trend into 2026, we are also seeing a major shift toward saturated charcoals, deep blue hues, and even black finishes. These rich textures transform the water into a reflective architectural feature that feels grounded, organic, and intentionally sophisticated, acting as a mirror for the Lowcountry sky.
The Cutting Edge
“How are designers refining pool edges to transform the backyard into your home’s most sophisticated space?”
In 2026, the artistry is found in the invisibility of the border. We are seeing a definitive pivot toward the Lautner Edge and Perimeter Overflows, where water sits perfectly flush with the deck to create a seamless slab of glass. We are erasing the boundary between land and water entirely. By mirroring the organic textures of the Lowcountry, these seamless transitions ensure the pool feels like an extension of the horizon rather than an addition to it.
The Technology
“In a world of smart-everything, how are we incorporating tech into our backyard getaways in 2026?”
The ultimate luxury in 2026 is time. Between work and family life, our schedules are more crowded than ever. The latest technological advancements are designed to make life easier by automating the ‘work’ of pool ownership so you can actually spend your time enjoying the water. These systems seamlessly sync all pool and spa features into one single app, giving you complete control and functionality. Set it and forget it, or change the setup to fit the mood or as the seasons change. From app-based controls to robotic cleaners, the modern pool is a high-tech sanctuary that prioritizes ease-of-use.
This Week’s Wow Factor Feature
“What are the edgiest additions for those looking to take their pools to the next level this year?”’
The Lautner Edge: a high-end architectural pool detail where the water sits perfectly flush with the surrounding deck, blurring the line between architecture, landscape, and horizon in one seamless reflection.