Best Pool Shapes for Queensland Backyards
Photo: Freedom Pools
Picking a pool shape isn't only about looks. It decides how much of your yard is left, where the fence goes, how you'll use the water, and whether fibreglass or concrete is the better build. Here's how to choose, based on the shapes and sizes we install across South East Queensland.
Start with what you'll use it for
- Laps and exercise: you need length. Go rectangular, at least 9m.
- Kids and family play: you need a wide, shallow area. Rectangle, oval or kidney all work.
- Cooling off and relaxing: a plunge pool or small pool is usually enough.
- The look of the yard: a modern home suits clean lines, while a tropical or older home suits curves.
Rectangular pools
The most popular shape, and the easiest to fit. Straight edges sit neatly against fences, decks and the house, so you lose the least yard to awkward gaps. They're the best choice for lap swimming and suit modern homes. Our fibreglass rectangles come in every size, from compact plunge pools to 12m+ lap pools.
Kidney pools
A curved shape with one inward bend. The curve creates a natural spot for a seat or a step-in area, and it softens a garden. It's a good fit for tropical landscaping and older Queenslanders.
Oval pools
Soft, rounded ends with a large open swim area. A good middle ground if you want curves without losing swim space.
Freeform pools
Organic, flowing shapes that look like they belong in the garden. Our fibreglass range includes freeform designs. If you want a truly one-off shape, or features like a beach entry or rock waterfall built into the pool, that's a job for concrete.
Plunge pools
Small pools, roughly 3m to 5m, made for cooling off rather than swimming. They suit townhouses, courtyards and small blocks, cost less to run, and heat up faster in spring.
What size fits your block?
| Size | Length | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Plunge | 3m–5m | Courtyards, townhouses, cooling off |
| Small | 5m–7m | Relaxing and family fun on smaller blocks |
| Medium | 7m–9m | The balance most families want |
| Large | 9m–12m+ | Laps, exercise and entertaining |
The pool isn't the only thing that needs room. Leave space for paving or decking around it, the filter and equipment, and the pool fence.
Don't forget the fence
In Queensland, the fence is part of choosing the shape. Under the QBCC pool safety rules:
- Pool barriers must be at least 1200mm high.
- They need a 900mm non-climbable zone, so keep BBQs, pot plants and tables away from the fence.
- A boundary fence can sometimes be used as part of the pool barrier, but it has to meet the standard.
- Your pool must be listed on the QBCC pool safety register.
A rectangle tucked against a boundary often needs less new fencing than a curved pool in the middle of the yard. We plan the fence with you at the design stage.
Fibreglass or concrete for your shape?
- Fibreglass: a fixed range of proven shapes and sizes, installed in one day, with total completion in as little as 4 weeks. Smooth gelcoat, low maintenance. See our fibreglass range.
- Concrete: any shape or size you can imagine, but it takes longer to build. See concrete pools.
Not sure what each costs? Read How Much Does a Pool Cost in Brisbane?
Get it measured, not guessed
Every block is different. Slopes, access, soil and easements all change what will fit. We'll visit your property, measure up, and show you which shapes work. Book a free on-site quote.