Affordable Alternatives to Achieve a 'Modern Pool Look'
By aupool | Date:
2025-05-15 | 747
read
To be honest, whenever you hear “modern pool,” your mind might go to shiny magazine photos, fancy resorts, and Instagram stars enjoying drinks on a flamingo float. It sounds like a costly idea, doesn’t it?
You can complete this vision without spending a huge amount of money. With clever ideas and prefabricated swimming pools, having a stylish and affordable modern pool is easier than it was before. At AU Pool, we have assisted many people in getting stunning pool zones that don’t cost a fortune. And here’s where we’ll reveal all those secrets.
This guide is for those who love DIY projects, prefer a simplistic design, or simply need a nice place to relax and get out of the heat. Let’s explore what you can buy that will allow you to swim fashionably and reasonably.
What Exactly Is a ‘Modern Pool’?
Before we get into hacks and alternatives, let’s pin down what this whole “modern pool” thing even means.
Modern pools aren't just about swimming, they’re about vibes. Clean design. Functionality. Smart use of space. Here's what usually defines a contemporary pool aesthetic:
Minimalist shapes: Think straight lines, rectangles, or sleek L-shapes.
Neutral colors: Gray, beige, black, or soft whites dominate the palette.
Smooth finishes: Plaster, tile, or polished concrete.
Creative lighting: Underwater LEDs, edge lighting, and soft mood lighting.
Functional landscaping: Pavers, pebbles, palms—clean and intentional.
The good news? You don’t need a custom-built concrete pool and a landscaping team to make this happen. Let’s explore budget-friendly options that still deliver that designer punch.
Prefab Swimming Pools
Let’s start with the MVP of affordable pool transformations: the prefab swimming pool.
What Is a Prefab Pool?
“Prefab” is short for prefabricated. These pools are pre-made in a factory and then delivered to your home for installation. You skip the whole dig-it-up, concrete-pouring circus. Instead, you get a sleek pool that’s ready to roll in a fraction of the time and cost.
Why Go Prefab?
Besides being your budget’s best friend, prefab swimming pools come with a bunch of perks:
Speedy install: You could be swimming in days, not weeks.
Cost savings: Way cheaper than custom builds.
Sleek design options: Plenty of modern shapes and finishes.
Durability: Especially with fiberglass or precast concrete.
Low maintenance: Smooth surfaces = less grime = happy you.
At AU Pool, we’ve created a selection of prefab swimming pools designed to tick all the boxes—form, function, and fabulousness. Whether you’ve got a tight courtyard or a wide-open lawn, we’ve got something that fits and looks slick doing it.
Budget-Friendly Pool Options That Still Slay
Prefab pools are amazing—but they’re just the beginning. If your budget’s extra tight, you’ve got options that still serve modern elegance without maxing out your credit card.
1. Stock Tank Pools – Farm Vibes Meet Urban Chic
Who knew troughs for livestock could become urban summer staples? These large galvanized steel tanks are cheap, stylish, and surprisingly durable.
Why they rock:
Cheap: You can grab one for a few hundred bucks.
Easy to install: Hose it down, hook up a filter, done.
Instant style: Paint it matte black, surround it with decking or pavers, and boom—you’ve got yourself a modern soak zone.
2. Above-Ground Pools with a Glow-Up
Above-ground pools used to scream “budget,” but that’s so 2005. With the right enhancements, they can look like boutique resort pieces.
How to modernize them:
Wrap them in timber or composite decking for a built-in feel.
Add LED strip lighting around the perimeter.
Match the exterior color to your home for visual cohesion.
Surround it with plants and pebbles for a clean landscape touch.
This combo brings serious style and keeps your costs much lower than a full in-ground installation.
3. Plunge Pools – Small Space, Big Impact
Plunge pools are having a major moment. Designed more for relaxing than full-on laps, these compact pools are perfect for patios, courtyards, or even rooftops.
What’s to love:
Compact size = less water and energy use.
Perfect for entertaining: Add a few in-pool loungers or a bench seat.
Modern by default: Their proportions and design are minimalist.
You can even opt for prefab plunge pools, combining the best of both worlds—style and savings.
Designing a Modern Pool on a Budget
Once you’ve picked your pool style, the magic happens in the details. Here’s how to get that sharp, modern look without breaking the bank.
Keep Your Color Game Neutral
Bright blues and quirky patterns have their place—but if you’re going for that sophisticated feel, stick to neutral tones.
Charcoal
Sandstone
Concrete gray
Matte black
Not only do they look classy, but they also make your outdoor space feel bigger and more cohesive.
Upgrade Your Surrounds (On a Budget)
You don’t need marble to impress. Modern pool surrounds can be built using:
Textured concrete pavers
Low-cost composite decking
Polished pebbles or river stones
Minimalist artificial turf
Keep the layout clean and structured, and use simple borders to separate zones.
Add Lighting – The Secret Sauce
A $100 LED lighting kit can do more for your pool than a $10,000 waterfall. Seriously.
Add underwater lights for night swims.
Use solar garden lights to illuminate walkways.
Install strip lights under seating or deck steps for that luxury look.
Pro tip: Warm white lighting feels more relaxing than cold white.
Landscape Like a Designer (Even If You're Not One)
Modern landscaping doesn’t mean lush gardens. It means intentional placement.
Frame the pool with a few tall, structural plants (think yuccas or olive trees).
Use gravel or white stones for minimal upkeep.
Avoid clutter. One or two big plants are better than a dozen small ones.
The DIY Factor – How Handy Are You?
Want to save even more? Roll up those sleeves.
What You Can Do Yourself
Install decking kits
Assemble your pool pump and filter
Landscaping
Lighting installs (solar only if you're not licensed)
But hey, don’t go drilling into electrical stuff if you’re not qualified. Call the pros for anything tricky.
Is Prefab Right for You? Quick Quiz Time
Still unsure if a prefab swimming pool is your golden ticket? Let’s find out.
Do you...
Care more about function and style than custom quirks.
Want something you can enjoy this summer?
If you answered yes to at least three of these, prefab is your new BFF.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
While trying to achieve a modern pool look without spending a lot, people may rush and forget a few important points. If you avoid the following errors, you can save yourself significant trouble and a heavy heart.
1. Skipping Council Permits
Do you believe you can get away without getting permits? Think again. In most places, you need to get approval before installing any kind of swimming pool, prefab, or stock tank. If you do not apply for a license, you may face fines, delays, or the local authorities may order you to remove your pool.
2. Underestimating Installation Costs
Before deciding on a prefab pool, remember to include the cost of delivery, making the pool site ready, hiring a crane, fencing the area, and setting up the electrical system. If you aren’t prepared, these extras can get very expensive.
3. Choosing Style Over Function
The black tile really does look nice, but it draws heat as well. For “vibes,” you may have positioned your pool in a shaded spot, but next thing you know, you’re stuck with icy water throughout the year.
4. Going Too Cheap on Equipment
You got a $1,000 discount on a bargain pump... but now you have to clean the algae daily and still can’t get your water clean. Spend enough on the filtration system and skimmer, as they are the most important parts of your pool.
5. Neglecting Safety Regulations
Although a glass fence looks great on Pinterest, it will not pass inspection unless it meets safety regulations. In addition, it might pose a threat to children or pets.
Real Talk: How Much Can You Save?
Let’s do a quick cost breakdown (approximate):
Pool Type | Price Range | Notes |
Prefab swimming pool | $15,000 – $35,000 | Includes install |
Stock tank pool | $300 – $1,200 | DIY-friendly |
Above-ground pool | $2,000 – $8,000 | Add decking for style |
Plunge pool | $10,000 – $25,000 | Prefab versions available |
Compare that to a fully custom in-ground pool that can run upwards of $70,000, and you can see why these alternatives are having a moment.
Conclusion
If you have imagined that a stylish pool is a privilege only for the rich and famous, you are wrong. You can make your outdoor area a cozy retreat by choosing a prefab pool, tweaking the design, and pitching in some work, all on a budget.
At AU Pool, we assist you in making your modern pool dreams a reality. Looking for an affordable pool? Planning your design? We can help you out.
Let’s stop looking at Pinterest and begin creating! Let’s get the job done.
