Summers on Long Island are hot and muggy, and beaches can get very crowded. That is why more homeowners are turning their backyards into their own personal retreats with pool patios.
A well‑designed pool not only helps you cool off in the summer, but it also creates a space to relax, entertain, and enjoy outdoor living in New York.
If you are planning a new pool or upgrading an existing setup, take a look at these pool design ideas to inspire your project.
Pool Water Slides

Adding a pool water slide is a great way to turn your backyard into a fun, resort‑style space. Many designer pool slides are built into natural stone or landscape features, which helps them blend in with the rest of the pool design.
When paired with the right materials, a water slide can blend into a patio’s existing design scheme. Surrounding the area with patio pavers helps tie the feature into the rest of the backyard.
Backyard Plunge Pools

Not every backyard has the space for a large pool. That is why backyard plunge pools are becoming more popular. Plunge pools are typically 4 to 8 feet deep and can range in size from 4×4 feet to 13×7 feet.
That makes them a great option for:
- Smaller or narrow yards
- Low‑maintenance designs
- Homeowners who want a clean, modern look
When paired with coping and matching tile, a plunge pool can still feel high‑end and enhance small patio designs.
Pool Tanning Ledges

Tanning ledges, also called Baja shelves, are one of the most in‑demand features in modern pool design. These shallow ledges sit just below the water’s surface, creating a place to relax without swimming.
They also add a layered look to your pool design. Baja shelves pair well with glass or porcelain tile finishes. They can also be framed with coping or natural stone for a clean, finished appearance. For guidance on finishing details, check out our blog on how to install pool coping.
Solar Pool Fountains

Solar pool fountains are a simple way to add movement and visual interest to your pool. These fountains use sunlight to power small water features, making them an energy‑efficient option.
Beyond appearance, pool fountains can also improve water circulation and create a more relaxing atmosphere in your backyard.
Pool Bubblers

Pool bubblers add a modern, playful touch to your design. These small jets push water up from shallow areas and are often installed near Baja shelves or entry points.
Like fountains, bubblers help move water, add visual interest, and create interactive features that are especially popular with families. Bubblers pair well with porcelain or natural stone pool decks, helping create a consistent look between the water features and surrounding hardscape.
Compare Pool Design Materials in Person
At Astro Masonry, we carry a wide range of materials used in pool projects across Long Island, including pavers, coping, and outdoor living features. Seeing these materials in person makes it easier to choose the right colors, textures, and layout for your project.
Visit our Deer Park, New York, showroom to explore full‑scale outdoor displays, compare pool design ideas, and get expert guidance for your project. If you are ready to get started, you can also request a quote online.
