What are the different types of swimming pools?

Before even thinking about the dimensions or the water color, the shape of the pool is one of the first decisions you will have to make.

Rectangular, open-plan, round, oval, or fully customized: each shape serves different purposes, fits into a garden in a different way, and involves technical, aesthetic, and budgetary constraints that must be anticipated from the outset.

Discover the main types of polyester shell pools available on the market, their advantages and limitations so you can move forward with your project with peace of mind.

Why is the shape of your pool such an important decision?

The shape of a shell pool is not solely a matter of aesthetics. It is a decision that involves several essential dimensions of your project. Firstly, it determines the effective swimming surface and how it can be used on a daily basis.

A 30 m² kidney-shaped pool actually offers a significantly smaller swimming area than a rectangular pool of the same total surface area. For an owner who wants to do laps or practice regular sport swimming, the difference is tangible. Conversely, if the use is mainly for family and relaxation, a freeform shape can perfectly fulfill its role without this constraint being a problem.

The shape also conditions compatibility with certain equipment. The the submerged automatic cover integrates perfectly on the rectangular pools and some ovals, but cannot always settle for overly asymmetrical configurations. Similarly, a counter-current swimming system in, particularly useful in shorter pools to maintain an equivalent effort level to that of a longer swimming lane, is much easier to install on regular geometric shapes.

Finally, shape is the primary vector for integration into the outdoor space. A contemporary house with clean lines naturally calls for a square or rectangular pool. A stone property with irregularly sloping grounds will be better served by a freeform or organic shape, capable of adapting to the constraints of the terrain.

Criterion	Rectangular pools	Free-form	Round / Oval / Square
Competitive swimming pool	Maximum	Discounted, for leisure use	Limited, recreational use
Outdoor Space Integration	Structured, geometric shapes	Natural, organic	Decorative, soft
Compatibility with submerged components	Yes	Partial	Partial
Compatibility with counter-current swimming	Yes	Not recommended	Possible
Ideal for small spaces	Yes, if it's a mini-pool	Partially	Yes

The rectangular pool: the most popular shape in France

The rectangular pool remains, by far, the most chosen shape in France for inground pools. And this popularity is no accident: rectangular shapes combine a maximum sporty swimming surface, structured integration into most outdoor spaces, and superior ease of maintenance.

Their right angles facilitate the work of the cleaning robot, optimize water circulation, and allow for a perfect installation of the automatic submerged cover, which covers the entire pool without any dead space.

For homeowners who want to swim laps regularly, a rectangular pool is the ideal solution:

• An 8x4 m pool already offers a swimming lane of eight meters, sufficient for comfortable daily training.
• For more constrained gardens, a compact 5x3 m model constitutes an ideal small rectangular pool for small spaceswhile remaining usable and aesthetically pleasing.

When it comes to finishes, the rectangular shapes are compatible with the entire Aboral Piscines color palette, from Pure White to Quartz, including the exclusive Sparkle finishes.

Free-form and organic shapes: when the pool blends into the garden

What is a free-form pool?

Freeform pools (of which the kidney bean pool is the most iconic shape, alongside kidney or lagoon models) are characterized by asymmetrical curves, with no sharp right angles.

Unlike strict geometric shapes, they are inspired by natural forms and give the entire outdoor landscaping an organic and serene look. This is a type of pool that is particularly interesting when the terrain is irregular, the garden is richly planted, or when the owner wishes to create two distinct functional areas within the same pool:

• a swimming area on one side,
• a space dedicated to swimming or relaxation from the other.

This type of layout is very popular with families with young children, who thus have a space tailored to their needs without encroaching on the adults' area.

Advantages and Limitations of Organic Shapes

The key advantage of free-form pools is how well they blend into the outdoor space. They blend naturally into the surrounding vegetation and create a gentle, nature-inspired atmosphere that stands in stark contrast to the austere look of rectangular pools.

The water rendering, particularly with Ivory or Papyrus toned shells, is particularly successful, with turquoise or mint blue reflections that enhance the impression of a natural lagoon.

On the other hand, certain practical constraints must be accepted: the effective swimming surface is reduced compared to a rectangular pool of the same total length. The installation of an automatic cover is often incompatible with overly asymmetrical shapes, and a counter-current swimming system will require specific technical study.

Round, Oval, or Square Pools: Benefits, Uses, and Differences

The round pool: the perfect solution for small spaces

The round poolis a type of pool often overlooked, but particularly suited for small gardens or projects focused on relaxation rather than competitive swimming.

With a diameter generally between 3.5 m and 5 m, it is a small pool that offers a surface area of less than 20 m² and can be installed in small spaces where a rectangular pool would not fit.

The oval pool: the middle ground between rectangular and free-form pools

Just like the round pool, the oval is often the forgotten shape. However, it offers real advantages for certain types of owners:

• A swimming area that is larger than a standard round pool, with smooth contours that blend seamlessly into formal or lushly landscaped gardens;
• Compatible with certain automatic shutters when dimensions allow;

Furthermore, the oval pool is particularly well-suited to slightly sloping ground, and can accommodate a counter-current swimming system in its longest version.

The square pool: a bold architectural choice

The square pool is the choice for the most successful contemporary projects. Combined with clean facades, dark stone or concrete copings, and high-end finishes like Iconic Grey or Pacific Blue from the Sparkle range by Aboral Piscines, it integrates perfectly into a minimalist outdoor space.

It is particularly well suited for:

• Overflowing projects: the still surface of the water creates a sophisticated mirror effect.
• Contemporary architectures: maximum visual coherence with the geometric shapes of the house.
• The counter-current swimming system: to compensate for the limited length of the pool and maintain athletic use.

Our tips for choosing the right shape for your prefabricated pool

Choosing the right shell pool shape is neither a matter of chance nor simple visual preference. It is a decision that must be based on a comprehensive and structured analysis of your personal situation and your outdoor space.

Here is the method recommended by the experts at Aboral Piscines to ensure a smooth process.

1. Assess the layout of your property

Before you start planning a design, begin by taking an objective look at your outdoor space. There are several factors to consider:

• Available surface area: it determines the maximum dimensions of the pool and favors certain shapes over others.
• Shape and relief of the garden: a long plot will naturally lead towards a rectangular pool; a more square or irregular space, or a sloping plot, will open up more options towards free forms.
• Orientation and sunlight: a well-exposed pool enhances light colors and shimmering finishes, while reducing heating needs.

2. Define your primary use

Just ask yourself this simple question: What will this pool actually be used for on a day-to-day basis?

• Sport swimming and regular laps: a rectangular swimming lane is the ideal solution. An 8x4 m pool already offers 8 meters of continuous swimming, sufficient for comfortable training.
• Family relaxation with children's area: a kidney-shaped or freeform pool allows for the creation of two distinct spaces within the same basin.
• Mixed use swimming and relaxation: a counter-current swimming system on a compact rectangular pool offers an excellent compromise, without requiring a large basin.

3. Take budget constraints into account from the start

The type of pool chosen influences much more than just the shell price. It impacts the entire project budget:

• The taxable area determines the amount of the development tax due upon installation.
• Compatible equipment varies by type: submerged cover, cleaning robot, filtration system… some are not adaptable to all configurations.

It is best to take these factors into account from the design phase onward to avoid unpleasant surprises during construction.

4. Ensure consistency with your outdoor space

The shape of the pool should not simply be added to your garden, it should naturally extend its identity. Here are a few concrete examples:

• Contemporary polished concrete architecture: rectangular pool with a Quartz or Iconic Grey color for an assumed mineral continuity.
• Stone house or Mediterranean garden: Ivory bean-shaped pool, which complements the olive trees, lavenders, and natural materials.
• Overflow or mirror effect project: square pool with a high-end Sparkle finish for a strong architectural look.

Before making your final decision, rely on visual renderings, color samples in real-world settings, and expert advice to ensure long-term aesthetic consistency.

At Aboral Piscines, we have been assisting owners for over 30 years in this process, from the land study to the turnkey delivery of their in-ground pool.

If you wish to concretely visualize the different shapes suited to your outdoor space, benefit from precise costing, and move forward with your project with confidence, do not hesitate to contact our experts for personalized support.tez build a pool at your home, the experts Aboral Piscines are at your disposal for personalized and no-obligation support.