There’s a quiet sense of reward in watching our clients step outside on a warm evening and experience their pool as it was meant to be lived in. What begins as a design conversation becomes the heart of the home; a place where days slow down, families gather, and moments unfold long after the sun sets. Being trusted to help create those spaces is one of the most gratifying parts of what we do.
2025 has brought us a wave of innovation in custom pool design. This year, we saw sustainability and technology come together to create luxurious spaces that are also thoughtfully designed.
Now more than ever before, homeowners are looking beyond simple aesthetics and to outdoor living that are energy-efficient, intelligent, and deeply personal. Check out some of our favorite custom pool design trends from 2025:
- Energy-Efficient Pool Systems
Sustainability is not just a luxury; it is now a necessity. Today’s energy-efficient pool systems not only reduce environmental impact but also help homeowners save significantly on long-term operating costs. Things like variable-speed pumps and smart heating technology are making energy-efficiency practical and luxurious.
- Infinity Edges
There is a reason infinity edges remain timeless. These stunning designs create a seamless visual connection between your pool and the surrounding landscape. Each year, custom infinity pool designs bring a breathtaking sense of openness that is ideal for both modern estates and hillside properties.
- Smart Automations
Imagine adjusting your pool lighting, temperature, and waterfalls from your phone. Smart automation systems make it effortless to maintain and enjoy your pool with precision control, giving you more time to relax and less time managing maintenance!
- Cocktail Pool
In 2025, we saw growing interest in cocktail pools—compact, thoughtfully designed spaces that prioritize relaxation, conversation, and connection. Ideal for properties where scale is intentional, these pools deliver the same sense of escape as a larger installation while creating an intimate setting for gathering. Carefully integrated into the surrounding landscape, cocktail pools offer versatility, comfort, and a refined approach to modern outdoor living
At Colao & Peter – Luxury Outdoor Living, we’re proud to be a trusted name in custom pool design throughout Northern Virginia and the surrounding region. Led by J.R. Peter, Registered Landscape Architect, our experienced team brings decades of collective expertise to every project delivering thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces with clarity, care, and attention to detail from start to finish.
Our award-winning firm has been recognized in national publications and honored with more than 30 industry awards, an acknowledgment of our commitment to thoughtful design, craftsmanship, and lasting client relationships. If you’re considering a custom outdoor living space, we invite you to connect with our team and begin the conversation.