40 Years of Pool Design Evolution in Georgia: From Basic Rectangles to Smart Luxury Retreats
Over the past four decades, swimming pool design in Georgia has undergone a remarkable transformation. What began as simple rectangular pools for basic recreation has evolved into sophisticated outdoor living spaces that blend cutting-edge technology, wellness features, and resort-style luxury. At Alison Pools, we've witnessed this custom pools across the Georgia region.
This journey through pool design history reveals not just changing aesthetic preferences, but fundamental shifts in how homeowners view their outdoor spaces—from afterthoughts to centerpieces of the modern Georgia home.
The 1980s: Natural Aesthetics and the Freeform Revolution
The 1980s marked a dramatic departure from the cookie-cutter rectangular pools that dominated previous decades. Natural-looking pools became popular during this era, with pebble finishes and exposed aggregate becoming common choices, while many homeowners opted for darker finishes that created a more natural appearance.
Key Design Features of the 1980s
Lagoon-Style Pools
Lagoon-style pools emerged as a new trend in the 1980s and remain popular today. These organic, flowing designs mimicked natural water bodies, integrating seamlessly with Georgia landscapes. Rock features, waterfalls, and naturalistic planting schemes transformed backyards into private oases.
Darker, Naturalistic Finishes
Moving away from the bright blue pools of the 1960s and 70s, the 1980s embraced earth tones and darker finishes. Pebble-tech and exposed aggregate provided textural interest while creating pools that appeared more like natural ponds than man-made structures.
At Alison Pools, we built numerous lagoon-style pools during this era, establishing our reputation for creating naturalistic designs that complemented the Georgia landscape. Our early work in freeform design laid the foundation for the custom approach we maintain today.
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Start Your Pool Journey Today →The 1990s: Safety, Functionality, and the Shallow-End Revolution
In the 1990s, focus shifted from purely aesthetic considerations to pool functionality and safety. This decade brought significant changes to pool design philosophy, particularly for families with children.
Safety Becomes Paramount
Many families installed safety covers, fences, and alarms during the 1990s to protect children from accessing pools without supervision. This era saw the introduction of comprehensive safety standards that continue to protect Georgia families today.
At Alison Pools, we became early adopters of advanced safety features, integrating safety systems into our designs as standard practice rather than optional add-ons.
Rethinking Pool Depth
Pool depth preferences began changing dramatically in the 1990s, with the shallow end receiving more attention as designers recognized this is where most family members swim comfortably. Previously, diving boards and 8-foot deep ends were the norm, but starting in the 90s, depths over 6 feet were typically only added when homeowners specifically wanted diving boards.
The sports pool configuration emerged during this period, featuring shallow ends on both sides with a "deep" section in the middle, typically measuring just 4 to 5.5 feet. This layout maximized usable space for activities, conversation, and play—exactly what Georgia families needed for their outdoor entertaining lifestyle.
Technology Integration Begins
The pool industry of the 1990s underwent assimilation as the overall pool concept evolved toward the at-home resort. Pools became more complex with growing popularity of vanishing edges, beach entries, grottos, islands, lazy rivers, sunning shelves and associated water features.
Fiber optic lighting gained popularity as an alternative to traditional pool lighting, and increasingly sophisticated electronic controls became standard on a growing percentage of installations.
Our pool design services at Alison Pools evolved significantly during this decade, incorporating the latest control systems and features that made pool ownership more convenient for busy Georgia families.
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If your pool was built in the 1990s or earlier, modern technology can transform your swimming experience. From smart controls to energy-efficient equipment, Alison Companies specializes in bringing older pools into the modern era.
Explore Pool Renovation Options →The 2000s: LED Revolution and All-Tile Luxury
The new millennium brought technological breakthroughs that fundamentally changed pool aesthetics and functionality.
LED Lighting Transforms Night Swimming
Pool lighting took a major leap forward in the early 2000s with LED technology—a true game-changer. LED pool lighting safely delivers incredible energy efficiency while performing about 10 times longer than incandescent counterparts.
Color-changing LEDs allowed homeowners to enjoy an array of jewel-toned colors at will, while top-quality LED units featured dynamic programs where hundreds of colors flash in mesmerizing performances.
For Georgia pool builders like Alison Pools, LED technology meant we could offer clients dramatically more creative lighting designs at lower operational costs—a win-win that quickly became standard in our installations.
All-Tile Pools Enter the Mainstream
All-tile pools emerged during the early 2000s as a prime example of evolving pool sophistication and expense. While tile mosaics were signature features of Roman baths and all-tile pools had existed for the ultra-wealthy, they were extremely rare until this period.
The status quo changed rapidly at the start of the 21st century with the introduction of a spectrum of tile products, including jewel-like glass tile mosaics, while improvements in tile application techniques and products facilitated growth in popularity across a more inclusive economic spectrum.
Today, our custom pool construction often incorporates elaborate tile work—from waterline accents to full-interior glass tile that creates stunning visual effects in the Georgia sunshine.
Practical Steps and Sunning Ledges
One key trend involved designing the first step to perform double duty as a tanning ledge, also known as a sun ledge or Baja shelf. The extended second step at 18 inches deep provided a comfortable perch for relaxation and cooling off without full submersion, while children enjoyed playing and seasoned swimmers appreciated the convenient seating.
These features proved especially popular in the hot Georgia pools market, where homeowners wanted to enjoy their pools without always being fully submerged in the intense summer heat.
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As experienced swimming pool builders in Georgia, we create stunning all-tile and glass tile pools that become the crown jewels of Georgia properties. Our tile artisans bring decades of expertise to every installation.
Explore Premium Pool Finishes →The 2010s: Smart Technology and Eco-Consciousness
The 2010s brought smartphone connectivity and environmental consciousness to pool design, fundamentally changing how homeowners interact with and maintain their pools.
Smartphone Control Becomes Standard
Pool automation allowed homeowners to automatically adjust pool temperature throughout the day, while swimming pool control systems could automatically add chemicals for perfectly balanced water. Pool and spa technology included system alerts that notified owners of potential leaks or when to clean filters, with systems even alerting pool service companies automatically.
For our clients across Georgia and surrounding areas, this meant they could manage their pools from anywhere—adjusting temperature while driving home from work or checking chemical levels from vacation.
Variable-Speed Pumps Revolution
Variable speed pool pumps allowed control of pump speed, which proved important because while pools were in use homeowners wanted to enjoy spa jets and waterfalls, but when away they didn't need to waste energy running pumps at high speed.
At Alison Pools, we became early advocates for variable-speed technology, helping Georgia homeowners dramatically reduce their pool operating costs while maintaining perfect water quality.
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Robotic, pressure and suction pool cleaners helped keep backyard pools clean and complemented main filtration systems, similar to robotic vacuums that travel throughout homes keeping floors pristine.
These innovations meant our clients spent less time on pool maintenance and more time enjoying their luxury outdoor spaces.
Sustainability Focus
The 2010s saw growing emphasis on water conservation and energy efficiency—critical concerns in Georgia where water resources must be carefully managed. Our designs increasingly incorporated:
Solar heating systems
Automated covers to reduce evaporation
Saltwater chlorination systems
Energy-efficient equipment throughout
Our commitment to sustainable pool design positioned Alison Pools as a leader among environmentally conscious pool contractors in Georgia.
2020-Present: The Smart Pool Era and Wellness Integration
Smart pool technology in 2025 focuses on enhancing convenience, energy efficiency, and sustainability through AI-driven monitoring, automation systems, and energy-efficient equipment.
AI-Powered Water Management
Smart chemical monitoring systems now use AI algorithms to analyze water quality in real time, automatically adjusting pH and sanitizer levels, which reduces the need for excessive chemicals while promoting cost savings and environmental sustainability.
Advanced sensors and AI-powered analytics enable real-time monitoring of water quality, temperature, pH levels, and chlorine balance, enhancing pool owners' ability to manage maintenance tasks with minimal effort.
For pool owners in Georgia, this means perfectly balanced water chemistry year-round without the guesswork or frequent manual testing that characterized earlier generations of pools.
Complete Smartphone Integration
Homeowners can now remotely monitor and control pool temperature, filtration, lighting, and water chemistry through advanced automation systems, with these systems optimizing energy use while ensuring pools remain clean and ready with minimal intervention.
Wellness and Therapeutic Features
Pools are transforming into wellness retreats, with customers increasingly requesting swim jets, spa jets, chillers, and heaters to create spa-like experiences at home.
At Alison Pools, we're incorporating hydrotherapy features that turn pools into year-round wellness centers—perfect for the health-conscious Georgia homeowner.
Current Design Trends
Curved pool designs are making a splash in 2025, with clean, rounded corners and soft curves becoming hallmarks of modern pool aesthetics focused on sleek, contemporary elegance rather than the freeform pools of the 1980s and 1990s.
Tile is taking center stage, with customers moving beyond standard waterline tile to install bold, colorful tiles on sun shelves, benches, and entire pool interiors, extending waterline tiles to create cohesive and dramatic visual effects.
Freeform pools with curved, flowing, organic shapes are trending across Georgia, blending seamlessly with landscaping to create natural oases in suburban and rural backyards.
Fire and Water Integration
Fire bowls, fireplaces, and torches integrated with pool designs create dramatic backyard statements, especially at night, and embrace bold contrasts in their outdoor spaces.
Our outdoor living designs now routinely incorporate fire features that provide warmth for cooler Georgia evenings while creating stunning visual focal points.
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Discover Smart Pool Options →Regional Considerations: Pool Design for the Georgia Climate
Throughout these four decades, successful pool design in Georgia has required understanding our unique climate challenges and opportunities.
Addressing the Georgia Heat
Professional pool area design services in Georgia consider crucial factors that impact both beauty and functionality, analyzing elements to optimize shade, enhance natural cooling, and maximize existing landscape potential.
Pool chillers actively cool pool water, ensuring a refreshing escape even on the hottest days, while representing an investment that offers ultimate control over pool temperature.
At Alison Pools, we've developed specialized approaches for Georgia conditions:
Strategic Shade Structures
Shade structures leverage shade, water features, and clever plant placement to lower ambient temperatures and create microclimates that defy August heat.
Cool-Touch Decking Materials
Light-colored pavers reflect sunlight, keeping pool decks cool underfoot even on the hottest days.
Water Features for Cooling
Sound and mist from water features create cooling effects both physically and psychologically.
Year-Round Usability
With Georgia' hot climate, pools can be used almost year-round, ensuring maximum return on investment, as fiberglass pools offer nearly year-round enjoyment not only for swimming but as beautiful additions serving as perfect centerpieces for parties, barbecues and family get-togethers.
This extended season makes Georgia one of the best markets for pool ownership in the United States—a fact we leverage in every Alison Pools design.
The Evolution of Pool Construction Methods
Pool building techniques have advanced dramatically alongside design trends.
From Gunite to Modern Alternatives
While gunite construction remains the gold standard for custom pools—especially for the complex designs we create at Alison Pools— advances in fiberglass and vinyl liner technology have expanded options for Georgia homeowners.
Improved Waterproofing
Modern waterproofing systems dramatically outperform those available in the 1980s, reducing long-term maintenance costs and extending pool lifespan.
Enhanced Structural Engineering
Our understanding of Georgia soil conditions—particularly the expansive clay soils common in the Sherman-Denison area—has improved dramatically. Modern pool construction accounts for soil movement, preventing the cracking and structural issues that plagued earlier installations.
At Alison Pools, we apply engineering principles refined over the years to ensure every pool we build stands the test of time in challenging Georgia conditions.
Cost Evolution: What's Changed in The Past Years
Pool construction costs have increased significantly over four decades, but so has the value delivered.
1980s Pricing
A basic pool might have cost $15,000-$25,000, but offered limited features and required significant maintenance.
Current Market
Today's custom pools start around $60,000-$80,000 but include:
Smart automation systems
Energy-efficient equipment
Superior finishes and features
Comprehensive warranties
Professional design services
The increased investment delivers pools that cost less to operate, require less maintenance, and provide exponentially greater enjoyment than their 1980s predecessors.
View our pricing transparency to understand the full value equation for modern Georgia pool ownership.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Pool Design
Based on emerging trends, we anticipate several developments:
Advanced Wellness Integration
Expect pools that monitor swimmer biometrics, adjust temperature and jet settings automatically, and integrate with overall home health systems.
Sustainable Materials
New eco-friendly materials will reduce environmental impact while maintaining luxury aesthetics.
Virtual Reality Design
VR technology will allow homeowners to "walk through" their pool design before construction begins—a capability we're already exploring at Alison Pools.
AI-Optimized Operations
Machine learning will optimize every aspect of pool operation, predicting maintenance needs before problems develop and minimizing operating costs.
Why Historical Perspective Matters
Understanding pool design evolution helps homeowners make better decisions about their own projects.
Avoiding Dated Designs
Knowing what defines each era helps avoid designs that will quickly feel outdated.
Appreciating Quality
Understanding how construction methods have improved clarifies why working with experienced builders like Alison Pools matters.
Planning for Longevity
Learning from past trends helps create pools with timeless appeal that will serve families for decades.
As one of the most established swimming pool builders in Georgia, we've seen firsthand how design trends cycle and evolve. This perspective informs every recommendation we make.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How have pool maintenance requirements changed over 40 years?
Modern pools require dramatically less maintenance than their 1980s counterparts. Smart automation systems, superior filtration, and advanced chemical management mean many current pools need only weekly attention rather than daily maintenance. Variable-speed pumps and robotic cleaners further reduce hands-on work. At Alison Pools, we design systems that minimize your time spent on maintenance so you can focus on enjoyment.
Q2: Are older pool designs still functional, or should I consider renovation?
Pools built in the 1980s-1990s can still be functional but often benefit significantly from strategic upgrades. Modern automation, LED lighting, energy-efficient equipment, and updated finishes can transform an older pool while costing far less than new construction. Our pool renovation services can assess your specific situation and recommend cost-effective improvements.
Q3: What pool features have stood the test of time across all four decades?
Several features remain consistently popular: infinity edges (when properly sited), tanning ledges, natural rock features, and high-quality tile work. The key difference is that modern technology makes these features more reliable, easier to maintain, and more energy-efficient than earlier versions. Quality craftsmanship—the hallmark of Alison Pools—never goes out of style.
Q4: How does the Georgia climate influence long-term pool design decisions?
Our intense summer heat, occasional winter freezes, and expansive clay soils require specific design considerations. Successful Georgia pools incorporate: proper structural engineering for soil conditions, adequate shade planning, energy-efficient cooling options, and materials that withstand temperature extremes. We've spent years perfecting designs specifically for pools in Georgia and the surrounding areas.
Q5: What represents the best value in current pool design—classic or cutting-edge?
The best value combines timeless design elements with strategic modern technology. We recommend classic shapes and natural materials that won't feel dated, enhanced with smart automation and energy-efficient systems that reduce operating costs. This balanced approach—our specialty at Alison Pools—creates pools that remain beautiful and functional for decades while incorporating technology that pays for itself through reduced operating costs.
