Pool Planning & Custom Pool Design
At NOLASCAPES Landscape & Design, pool planning is about far more than selecting a shape and starting construction. A well-designed pool should fit the property, complement the home, support the way the backyard will be used, and function properly for years to come. Our team specializes in custom pool planning and pre-construction design for homeowners throughout New Orleans who want fully integrated outdoor environments rather than standard pool layouts.
Every project begins with understanding how the space will be used. Some homeowners want a modern entertainment-focused backyard with expansive patios and outdoor kitchens, while others prefer a more private retreat with natural landscaping, water features, and quiet lounging areas. These goals directly influence the pool layout, surrounding hardscapes, circulation paths, lighting, and feature integration.
Designing Pools Around the Property
No two backyards are exactly alike, which is why our design process is tailored to the specific layout and conditions of each property. We evaluate yard size, existing structures, elevation changes, drainage patterns, sun exposure, and access points before developing a pool plan. In New Orleans, where heavy rainfall and drainage concerns are common, proper grading and water management are critical parts of long-term pool performance.Our team carefully plans how the pool will connect with patios, outdoor living areas, walkways, landscaping, and the home itself. Instead of designing the pool as a separate feature, we create cohesive outdoor environments where every element works together visually and functionally.
Modern & Freeform Pool Designs
NOLASCAPES designs both modern geometric pools and natural freeform pool environments depending on the style of the property and the homeowner's vision.Modern pools often feature clean lines, symmetrical layouts, tanning ledges, integrated spas, linear water features, and minimalist materials that complement contemporary architecture and structured outdoor living spaces.
Freeform pools create a softer, more organic appearance with curved edges, natural stone, waterfalls, tropical landscaping, and lagoon-inspired designs. These layouts are ideal for homeowners who want a more relaxed backyard atmosphere that blends naturally into the surrounding landscape.
Our design team helps clients determine which style best supports the overall look, functionality, and flow of the property.
Outdoor Living & Feature Integration
Today's pools are often part of larger outdoor living projects, which is why planning surrounding features early in the design process is so important. We regularly integrate:- Attached spas
- Tanning ledges
- Waterfalls and fountains
- LED pool and landscape lighting
- Fire features
- Outdoor kitchens
- Covered patios and pergolas
- Seating walls and lounge areas
Material & Finish Selection
Material selection plays a major role in both appearance and long-term maintenance. We guide homeowners through choosing interior finishes, coping, decking materials, tile, and decorative accents that match their design goals and lifestyle needs.Options such as plaster, quartz, Pebble Tec, and Pebble Sheen all provide different textures, water colors, durability levels, and maintenance requirements. Decking materials like natural stone, travertine, pavers, and decorative concrete are selected based on aesthetics, slip resistance, heat retention, and overall performance in Louisiana's climate.
Our goal is to help clients create a pool environment that looks beautiful while remaining durable and manageable long after construction is complete.
Planning for Performance & Long-Term Functionality
A successful pool design must also function efficiently behind the scenes. During pre-construction planning, we design circulation systems, filtration layouts, equipment placement, and lighting systems that improve hydraulic efficiency, water clarity, and energy performance.Thoughtful planning helps reduce future maintenance concerns while improving the overall usability of the outdoor space. From drainage and grading to lighting placement and equipment access, every detail is considered before construction begins.
Pool Renovation & Backyard Redesign Planning
In addition to new pool projects, NOLASCAPES also provides pool renovation planning for outdated or underperforming outdoor spaces. Many older pools no longer match how homeowners use their backyards today. Our renovation planning services may include redesigning patios, upgrading finishes, adding spas or tanning ledges, improving lighting, modernizing equipment, or reworking layouts to create better flow between the pool and surrounding outdoor areas.Custom Pool Planning for Complete Outdoor Living
At NOLASCAPES Landscape & Design, we believe exceptional pools start with exceptional planning. Our team focuses on designing complete outdoor environments that balance aesthetics, usability, drainage, durability, and long-term enjoyment. Whether you want a sleek modern pool, a natural freeform design, or a fully integrated outdoor living space, we create customized pool plans designed specifically for your property and lifestyle in New Orleans, LA. Contact us today on 504-330-8479 or via our online form for more information on pool planning and design services.
Areas We Service in Louisiana