design element Custom Pools

Pools act as both a source of enjoyment and a strong landscape anchor. Their shape, size, and materials help guide layout, reinforce structure, and shape circulation across outdoor spaces, creating inviting areas for relaxation and gathering.
A geometric pool paired with a linear pergola and bluestone terrace, reinforcing modern design principles through repetition, structure, and clean transitions.

form and function for every style

Pools serve as both a recreational feature and a central design element within the landscape. In residential settings, pool shape and scale are driven by property layout, architecture, and how the space will be used. Rectangular and geometric pools reinforce clean lines and formality, while freeform and softened shapes feel more relaxed and organic. Materials such as concrete, natural stone coping, tile, and textured decking influence durability, comfort, and visual character.

Surrounding elements like terraces, planting, and grade transitions help the pool feel integrated rather than isolated. When designed as part of the overall landscape, a pool becomes a visual anchor that organizes circulation, gathering areas, and views.

common custom pool questions

1. How much space do I need for a residential pool?
Pools can be designed for properties of many sizes. Smaller lots often benefit from compact or geometric pools, while larger properties allow for broader layouts and surrounding amenities.
2. Can a pool increase property value?
A well-designed pool integrated into the landscape can enhance curb appeal and overall property value, especially when it complements the home and outdoor living spaces.
3. How does Boston’s climate affect pool design and construction?
In the Boston area, pools must be built to handle freeze-thaw cycles, winterization, and seasonal temperature changes. Proper construction methods and material choices are critical for longevity.
4. How do I decide what type of pool is right for my property?
The right pool depends on available space, grade, architecture, and how you plan to use it. Shape, depth, and layout should align with your landscape and lifestyle, not just aesthetics.
This traditional rectangular pool is integrated into a bluestone terrace beside a classic home, using proportion and alignment to create a cohesive outdoor living environment in Lexington.

see examples of our custom pools

A formal pool design anchored by a bluestone terrace, using balanced proportions and refined materials to create a timeless estate layout in Wellesley.
A modern rectangular pool paired with a stone patio and pergola creates a defined outdoor lounge space, balancing shade, structure, and open water in Wellesley.
This contemporary pool design emphasizes sharp geometry and refined stone hardscape, creating a sleek visual statement within a landscaped backyard in Newton.
A formal lap pool set within an open lawn, finished with cut stone coping to reinforce clean lines and a traditional New England aesthetic.
A contemporary linear pool framed by bluestone, a pergola, and a fire feature, combining water, structure, and warmth for sophisticated outdoor entertaining.
A linear rectangular pool set within a stone terrace and layered planting, using alignment and proportion to anchor the landscape in Lincoln.
A curved spa paired with a pergola creates a dedicated entertaining zone, where water, structure, and seating come together in a refined Wellesley backyard.
A raised spa finished in bluestone serves as a sculptural water feature, adding elevation, texture, and visual interest alongside a rectangular pool in Concord.
A raised stone spa spills gently into the main pool, creating movement and sound while natural screening enhances privacy in this layered landscape design in Wellesley.
A freeform concrete pool with a curved deck and lounge seating, softened by natural planting to create a resort-style backyard experience.
Surrounded by flowering borders and a bluestone patio, this rectangular pool blends formal structure with seasonal color, creating a garden-focused swimming environment.
A compact rectangular pool designed for a hillside property, where stone terraces manage elevation changes while maintaining a clean, usable pool layout in Brookline.
An aerial view highlighting a rectangular pool with an integrated spa and stone patio, showing how geometry and layout organize a coastal estate landscape.
A classic rectangular pool set within a brick patio and woodland backdrop, offering a timeless New England look that balances clean geometry with natural privacy and garden integration.
A rectangular stone pool anchored by a bluestone terrace and outdoor fireplace, creating a refined entertaining space that blends structured hardscape with soft planting for year-round appeal in Weston.
A formal rectangular pool framed by a stone patio and symmetrical planting, establishing a strong visual axis and an elegant focal point within a carefully organized backyard setting.
A freeform pool with an integrated spa and natural stone patio, designed to feel organic while supporting luxurious outdoor living on a large estate.
A narrow lap pool with granite coping and lawn-set steps offers a streamlined solution for fitness and relaxation within a classic backyard layout.
A freeform pool with natural stone detailing and a rock slide creates a family-friendly environment that blends recreation with a naturalistic landscape in Weston.
This modern rectangular pool features cut stone walls and crisp edges, using strong geometry and minimal detailing to complement contemporary architecture in Newton.
A freeform pool surrounded by natural stone and layered planting, designed to blend seamlessly into its landscape setting in Weston.
A formal rectangular pool with cut stone coping set within a manicured lawn, emphasizing symmetry, scale, and classic estate-style design.
A bluestone-lined rectangular pool with an integrated spa nestled into a woodland garden, offering a quiet retreat that feels connected to its natural surroundings.
This pool design uses tiered stone retaining walls to manage grade changes, creating visual depth, structured seating edges, and a refined transition between pool and surrounding landscape.
A rectangular pool with an integrated spa set into a bluestone deck, where layered planting softens the edges and enhances privacy while maintaining a clean, structured layout.

designed for long-term enjoyment

In the Boston climate, pool design must account for seasonal use, freeze-thaw cycles, and long-term maintenance. Proper construction, drainage, and material selection help protect the pool structure and surrounding hardscape through winter conditions. Features such as integrated seating, shallow lounging areas, and durable finishes improve usability while controlling upkeep. From an investment standpoint, a well-designed pool can increase property appeal and support resale value when paired with cohesive landscape design. Maintenance planning, safety considerations, and efficient layouts are key to long-term enjoyment.

Contact us to learn how our pool design and installation services can create a pool that integrates seamlessly with your landscape and lifestyle.
This freeform family pool combines a curved shape with an integrated spa and paver deck, creating a relaxed environment for everyday use and entertaining.

read our custom pool blog posts

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what our clients say

review - a blade of grass landscape designer Boston review
“Exceptional vision coupled with practical advice. The team worked hard under difficult conditions, the job was done in a timely manner and the outcome surpassed my very high expectations.”
Kathy H.
West Roxbury, MA
“What a great company. The people we work with are responsive, knowledgeable and a delight to work with. They meet with us each year at the beginning of the season to understand our needs and they make sure they meet those needs.”
Helen S.
Concord, MA
“They listened to what we wanted and created an oasis where each month we saw different plants blooming with different colors. Our designer was a joy to work with and she truly taught us about plants and flowers through this experience.”
Jaimin P.
Sudbury, MA
“Their creative vision, thoroughness, and professionalism exceeds all expectations. Further, the Blade of Grass team is exceptionally friendly, responsive and easy-going.”
Lindsey M.
Dover, MA
“They gave me an accurate budget and timetable up front and pretty much stuck to it - much to my husband's delight. They are not pushy about their services which I truly appreciate and which is why I continue to use them for maintenance, new plantings etc. Would highly recommend them!”
Sunitha D.
Newton, MA
“a Blade of Grass was a joy to work with from beginning to end. They were focused on us the entire process from brainstorming, designing, selecting and installation. We love our new landscaped backyard and know you will too!”
Pamela D.
West Roxbury, MA
“a Blade of Grass transformed our front yard from a barren wasteland of wood chips to a stunningly gorgeous garden. In late 2012, we embarked on a major project to rebuild our backyard and add a pool and patio. The result far exceeded our expectations. Heather and her crew maintain all of our gardens throughout the year, and are very responsive to our questions and requests.”
John H.
Weston, MA
“When designing the space Tom considered every detail including privacy concerns, colors, the reuse of existing plants, our likes and dislikes, cost, placement and size of walkways and stairs, shape of pool deck and where snow would be plowed in the winter. The result is a yard we enjoy all year-round. Since its design, the maintenance team at a Blade of Grass has maintained the yard's beauty.”
Dave H.
Waltham, MA
“Joanna had an encyclopedic knowledge of every plant we looked at. The installation crew led by Joel was also terrific. In fact, despite oppressive heat, they removed some old stones in the way and used them to repair and extend a fallen wall - a really thoughtful touch that went above and beyond the plan.” 
Betty T.
Lincoln, MA

considering a pool for your property?

Contact us to explore how our pool design and installation services can create a refined outdoor feature that anchors your landscape, enhances daily enjoyment, and adds lasting value to your property.
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