As design-forward plunge pools increasingly transform backyards into personal retreats, we’ve identified three pool innovations for 2025.
The surge in home aesthetic improvement is reshaping the swimming pool construction market, with design-forward solutions playing a pivotal role in how homeowners redefine outdoor living. According to a 2023 survey by Slickdeals, 78% of U.S. homeowners are planning home improvement projects, spurred in part by a desire to remedy aesthetic dissatisfaction—69% admit they’re embarrassed by their home’s appearance. As the average household plans to invest over $1,700 in improvements, pools are increasingly viewed not just as luxuries but as architectural enhancements that offer visual elegance, personal expression, and lifestyle value.
Among the most notable developments is the rise of plunge pools—compact, design-conscious installations that blend aesthetic refinement with functional wellness. These pools reflect a broader shift in residential design, where outdoor spaces are treated as year-round extensions of the home.
In conversation with Karen Larson, co-founder of Soake Pools, we explore how plunge pools are redefining residential exteriors. Also, we identify three innovative pool products launched in 2025: Aiper’s robotic cleaner, Tara Pool’s mosaic sand liner, and Leisure Pool’s fiberglass option.
READ what professionals from various countries are saying about the pool market in their homeland.
Wellness Meets Design: The Rise of the Plunge Pool
“People are no longer treating outdoor living spaces as an afterthought. They’re essential now,” shares Karen Larson of Soake Pools. This shift is fueled in part by a generational wave: by 2030, every Baby Boomer will be over 65. “This demographic shift is transforming how we think about home design. I think there will be more focus on prioritizing comfort, accessibility, and one-level living with thoughtful product choices,” she adds.
Larson explains that plunge pools support aging without sacrificing design by offering smart, year-round wellness features. They can be heated in the winter and cooled in the summer. Her company, Soake Pools, has been providing this option to clients since 2014. These pools are also highly practical; they can be installed in just a few days and offer luxury throughout the entire year. Additionally, behind Soake Pools’ calming surfaces lies a commitment to durability and smart engineering. Each precast plunge pool is made with 5000 PSI concrete in a certified New Hampshire facility and hand-tiled by artisans in a controlled environment, reflecting Soake Pools’ commitment to durability and thoughtful engineering.
“To further support our clients’ health goals, we recently introduced our Fitness & Wellness package, a thoughtful add-on that enables aquatic exercise like stationary swimming and water aerobics right at home,” says Larson, adding, “It’s all part of our mission to integrate beauty, function, and wellness into the daily routines of our customers in innovative and meaningful ways.”
Personalization in Residential Pools
As homeowners increasingly view their outdoor spaces as extensions of their personal identity and daily routine, the demand for highly customized pool design continues to grow. In 2025, personalization has emerged as a defining principle in residential pool architecture, where form, function, and feeling intersect to create environments that are both expressive and deeply livable.
“Clients are leaning into personalization more than ever, asking for features that align with their lifestyles and how they use their outdoor spaces. We’re seeing requests for flexible designs, such as incorporating one or multiple steps depending on how many people typically use the pool. There’s also interest in expressive finishes,” shares Larson.
This demand for customization led Soake Pools to collaborate with interior designer Gala Magriñá. The result? Limited-edition designs like Breathe and Awaken reframe the outdoor space as a space of reconnection with oneself.
In a time where sanctuary and smart living are top of mind, Soake Pools is carving out a niche that’s not only visually striking but holistically considered. It’s not just about how a pool looks, but how it lives with you.
Pool Innovations for 2025
To further illustrate the innovation happening across the industry, here are some standout pool-related products that align with the shift toward wellness and aesthetics:
One of the winners of the 2025 Red Dot Design Awards, this product cleans pool floors and walls with precision and minimal noise. It is cordless and intuitive, with 5 cleaning modes including the Eco mode that enables light cleaning every two days. Additionally, it is compatible with various pool types and materials.
This year, Tara Pools introduced their Mosaic Sands liner, a premium design that brings a soft, coastal vibe to any modern backyard. The stacked stone-inspired border blends seamlessly with natural patio elements, making it an ideal choice for homeowners looking to create a serene, beach-like retreat. Available in a durable 20mil thickness for both wall and floor.
Designed for compact backyards, Leisure Pools’ Limitless™ model combines three pool experiences in one space-saving layout: a splash deck, a built-in spa, and a full swim area. Released as part of their 2025 collection, the design caters to families and wellness-focused homeowners alike, offering versatility without sacrificing style. Its sleek layout makes it a smart, all-in-one solution for modern outdoor living.
