If your pool still looks like it’s stuck in the early 2000s—or was designed around a lifestyle that’s long since changed—it might be time for an upgrade.
Whether the kids have outgrown the cannonball phase or you're dreaming of a more peaceful, spa-like retreat, a well-executed pool remodeling project can breathe new life into your backyard.
At LiveWell Outdoors, we believe your pool should reflect the lifestyle you’ve worked hard to build. That’s why we’ve rounded up 10 premium remodeling ideas that go far beyond a simple resurface.
From modern finishes and integrated spas to smart tech and lighting that sets the mood, these upgrades are all about making your outdoor space more functional, more beautiful, and unmistakably yours.
Resurfacing your pool is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make, especially if your current surface is stained, rough, or showing signs of age.
Pebble aggregate and quartz finishes offer both beauty and durability, and they are available in a range of colors and textures to match your style. For a modern, high-end look, consider a darker finish that gives the water a deep, reflective quality.
Want something more natural? A lighter, speckled surface can create that turquoise lagoon vibe. These finishes are a great way to visually connect the water to surrounding stone or decking materials.
Tile and coping are the design details that frame your pool, and updating them can instantly shift the entire aesthetic.
Whether you’re leaning toward clean-lined travertine, bold glass mosaics, or natural stacked stone, you can tailor the look to blend seamlessly with your home’s exterior or landscape design.
Modern coping options, like bullnose or cantilevered styles, offer smooth transitions that are both stylish and comfortable to walk on.
Pro tip: Consider extending tilework beyond the waterline to spa walls, benches, or even raised planters for a cohesive, polished look.
Remodeling isn’t just about what’s in the pool. Updating your surrounding hardscape with premium pavers, natural stone, or slip-resistant surfaces ties everything together in style.
One of the most transformative changes you can make is building an entirely new deck or surround that expands your usable space and redefines the experience around your pool.
Whether you’re working with composite decking, hardwood, or stone-topped platforms, a custom-built deck can incorporate built-in seating, shade structures, and even tiered levels for sunbathing or dining.
Bonus: A well-planned deck can also help visually connect your pool to your home or garden, making the whole backyard feel like one intentional retreat.
Upgraded pool entries are all about smooth transitions and a luxurious experience from the moment you dip a toe in. Consider wide, tiered entry steps that double as a sitting area or conversation spot.
For an even more elevated upgrade, a beach entry (also known as zero-entry) creates a gentle slope into the pool—no steps required. It’s both elegant and accessible, especially for kids, older guests, or anyone with mobility concerns.
These modern entry styles can be seamlessly integrated during a remodel and work beautifully with both traditional and freeform pool shapes.
A built-in spa blends effortlessly into your pool design, giving your backyard a resort-worthy upgrade.
Whether you prefer a round spillover spa or a more modern rectangular style, you can choose materials and finishes that match your pool for a cohesive, high-end look. Bonus features like therapeutic jets, LED lighting, and remote temperature control turn this into a year-round haven.
During a remodel, it's easy to carve out space for the spa or nestle it into an existing corner, making it feel like it’s always been part of the plan.
A tanning ledge—or Baja shelf—brings the luxury of resort lounging right into your own backyard.
Sometimes called sunshelves, these shallow, in-pool platforms are perfect for placing loungers, letting toddlers splash safely, or just soaking up the sun with your feet in the water.
You can even add bubblers or an umbrella sleeve for extra comfort and flair. If you’re remodeling, it’s the perfect time to extend your pool footprint slightly and create a shallow zone that feels like a mini oasis.
These ledges transition beautifully from deeper pool areas and can be finished in tile or stone to match the rest of your space.
A swim-up bar brings next-level convenience and fun to your backyard—no towel required.
Whether you're envisioning submerged stools built into the shallow end or a sleek ledge along a retaining wall with a countertop above, this upgrade turns casual gatherings into unforgettable experiences.
You can pair it with an outdoor kitchen or covered pavilion for the full resort feel. These features can be integrated into a tanning ledge or along a shallow zone, giving you a dedicated area for entertaining without interrupting the pool’s main flow.
Waterfalls and sheer descents create motion, sound, and a visual “wow” factor that instantly elevates your space.
Natural rock-style cascades offer a serene, organic look, while sleek sheer descents give you a modern, architectural vibe with a glass-like curtain of water. You can install these along a raised spa, wall, or even built into your pool’s perimeter.
They’re not just pretty; they help circulate the water too. Bonus points if you light them from behind for an eye-catching nighttime glow.
LED lighting lets you completely transform your pool’s mood with the tap of a button. Color-changing lights set the stage for celebrations, while soft white underwater lighting adds elegance for evening swims.
Don’t stop at the pool itself—accent the surrounding landscape, steps, or water features for a layered lighting look. Today’s systems can be integrated with smart home tech, so you can automate scenes based on time, events, or even your favorite colors.
It’s one of the simplest upgrades with the biggest wow factor, especially during evening entertaining.
Today’s smart pool systems give you total control right from your phone or tablet. Whether you're at work or on vacation, you can adjust lighting, check chemical levels, start the heater, or run the filter with a tap.
Automation makes managing your pool easier and more efficient, and many upgrades—like variable-speed pumps or energy-efficient heaters—can even save you money over time.
During a remodel, it’s the perfect opportunity to replace outdated equipment with streamlined tech that blends performance with peace of mind.
Want to take it further? Integrate your pool controls with your home’s smart system or voice assistant for a seamless experience.
A refreshed pool can completely transform how you use and enjoy your backyard. Whether you’re ready for a few updates or envisioning a full-scale transformation, LiveWell Outdoors can help you bring it to life with expert design, premium materials, and a seamless remodeling process.
Schedule a consultation with our team to explore what’s possible for your pool remodel.
