As summer grows ever closer, Aussies are preparing to enjoy their swimming pools. In fact, according to a River Pools blog. Australia's people are more passionate about swimming that any other nationality in the world!

Now, the kind of pool people enjoy varies from person to person. Some people might just use above ground pools while others opt for smaller lap pools or stunning infinity pools. Others might be looking to have one custom designed and built for their home, and of course it should be both beautiful and functional. There are a number of ways to achieve this, but four particular trends are a cut above the rest, and today we'll show you why that is.

Gotta love the lounge

A growing trend with backyard designs is to have a nice place for people to gather, which has traditionally involved a deck or patio. Now, those with pools can opt for a sunken lounge. This is one of the most interesting pool designs you'll ever see, involving a dry lounge space that is actually below the water line of the pool and surrounded by water. Typically you'd have a small set of steps or maybe a bridge to enter the area. It could be filled with comfy furniture and used as a conversation area, or you could put in a fire pit. You may also want to use it as a dining space. Whether it's fibreglass pools or tile, a sunken lounge will be a nice addition to the space.

The bridge is beautiful

By installing a slimline bridge across your pool, you can achieve several desirable effects. First, you can integrate the pool into your daily life more. Second, you can divide your pool into separate zones which can be aesthetically pleasing, and you can also ensure that your pool is enjoyed as a daily part of your backyard landscape, not just when you're taking a dip. Also, it gives your kids an added element of fun aside from traditional pool slides because they can use it for a jumping platform.

Acrylic is amazing

Have you ever thought about how it would feel to be in an underwater room with a view? Acrylic pool windows can achieve that very effect. Previously only used by aquariums or luxury hotels, these water tight windows are now more affordable and architects are beginning to understand how to better incorporate the acrylic technology as well as improved waterproofing methods into a home design.

Another great use for acrylic pool windows is to have them facing out towards your backyard. This adds the effect of merging the pool right into your landscape. You'll be amazed at how it looks when your pool lights come flooding out of the windows after dark. You can even incorporate bubblers to add more flare to the effect. Acrylic still isn't exactly inexpensive, but prices are improving. The windows are UV stable, and they are guaranteed as well. Also, remember that big windows aren't the only way to go. You can put in smaller windows or maybe portholes which would still offer a nice view into your pool and add a stunning features at the same time.

Moving floors are fabulous

One of the toughest parts of owning a pool is keeping it clean and chlorinated. This is especially true once summer is over and the pool isn't being used. Most people go for a pool cover which keeps most of the nasties out, but covers aren't always aesthetically pleasing, and they have to be cleaned themselves. A growing trend looks to replace the old traditional pool covers with a hydraulic moving floor which, when closed, gives the feeling that you have an outdoor deck or at least a functional play area for your kids.

There are a few different options with this type of design. You can opt for a floor that comes up out of the pool hydraulically and covers it. The second possibility is a floor that slides back underneath a deck and comes out horizontally to cover the pool when needed. There are even moving floors that come up sideways to form a beautiful feature wall. No matter which way you go, adding in a moving floor will be a great addition to your pool and to your backyard design.

In conclusion

Whether you choose a small plunge pool, a swim spa, a lap pool for exercise, or another larger, more elaborate design, it's important that it blends well with the design and decor of your existing space. Get the professionals involved with the installation process to ensure your pool will be a welcome addition to your home and a source of beauty and enjoyment for years to come.