2026's Hottest Swimming Pool Colours
One of the first things people ask us isn't about engineering or pumps. It's "what colour will the water be?"
It’s a huge decision because the colour of your pool sets the entire mood of your backyard. It’s personal. Do you want that crisp, "holiday" feeling every time you step outside, or are you looking for something softer that blends into your garden?
We’re seeing a real shift in Brisbane lately. Homeowners are moving away from the standard "pool blue" and choosing colours that evoke a specific feeling. Here is a look at what our clients are loving right now and how to find the right match for your lifestyle.
The Crisp Resort Look (Light & White)
There is something undeniably refreshing about a light-coloured pool, reminiscent of a Greek island or a high-end resort. We are seeing a surge in light grey and crisp white interiors, particularly for modern Hamptons-style homes or compact courtyards where the goal is an open, airy, and inviting atmosphere.
To achieve this Resort Minimalist aesthetic, we typically use White Pebble, 10% Blue Glass Beads in pebble, or 100% glass in clear and white beads . These lighter interiors reflect the sky to create that electric, crystal-clear blue water. From a practical perspective, they also reflect more sunlight, keeping the water refreshing during those scorching Brisbane summers.
The Natural Sanctuary (Greens & Earth Tones)
For many of our clients, the goal isn't to stand out, but to blend in. If you have a leafy backyard or love the "Biophilic" design trend popular in Queensland, this approach creates a serene and calming atmosphere similar to a natural freshwater creek or lagoon.
We achieve this by using sandy gold pebbles or green glass in the interior mix. The water takes on a stunning turquoise or soft aqua hue, ensuring that instead of a bright blue square dominating your garden, the water complements your landscaping for a seamless flow between the pool and the plants.
The Moody & Modern (Dark Blue & Charcoal)
This is a bold choice, but one that our clients never regret. Darker colours like charcoal, slate, and navy add an incredible amount of depth and sophistication to a space. It feels luxurious and slightly mysterious, effectively turning the pool into a mirror that reflects your house lights and the stars at night.
We create this look using Black Glass Beads, Charcoal or Dark Blue Tiles, or adding black oxide into the cement. This aesthetic anchors the backyard and contrasts beautifully against natural stone or timber decking. As a bonus comfort factor, dark interiors hold onto the sun’s heat, naturally keeping your pool a few degrees warmer.
It’s About Texture, Not Just Colour
Because we build custom concrete pools, you aren't limited to one or two colours. We play with texture to bring the water to life.
By mixing glass beads into the interior pebble, we can catch the sunlight in different ways. A splash of clear or blue glass beads adds a sparkle to the water that changes throughout the day as the sun moves. It gives the pool a "shimmer" that you just don't get with other surfaces.
Curious about costs?
Learn more about the price difference between Pebble and Glass Bead interiors in our 2026 Pool Cost Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular pool colour right now?
Currently in Brisbane, light grey and crisp white interiors are the most requested. They create that "Ice Blue" resort look that pairs perfectly with modern coastal and Hamptons-style architecture. However, we are seeing a strong rise in "green" tones (ranging from aqua to green and dark forestry colours) for architectural homes wanting a sophisticated feature.
What is the best colour for a swimming pool?
The "best" colour depends entirely on your practical goals. If you want your pool to feel larger and cooler in summer, the best colour is White or Light Grey. If you want to retain heat and create a mirror-like reflection, the best choice is Charcoal or Black. For a natural blend with a tropical garden, the best option is Sandy Beige to create turquoise water.
What is the timeless colour for a pool?
Trends come and go, but a crisp, light blue is the most timeless choice. This is typically achieved with a White Pebble mix featuring blue glass beads. It mimics the look of natural, healthy ocean water and never feels dated, unlike some heavy green or brown trends from decades past.
What is the trend in pool design in 2026?
The biggest trend for 2026 is "Biophilic Design" - pools and places that connect deeply with nature, with a desire for wellness. This means moving away from stark blue boxes and towards organic shapes, natural stone edging (like Travertine), and water colours (teals, aquas, and greens) that blend seamlessly with the landscaping.
Does the interior colour affect the water temperature?
Yes. Just like a black car gets hotter than a white car, dark interiors absorb solar heat. This can naturally raise the water temperature by approximately 2-3°C, extending your swimming season, but may get to a point where they no longer feel refreshing in summer. Conversely, light pools reflect heat, keeping the water refreshing in peak summer.
Let’s Find Your Perfect Match
Choosing a colour can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to guess. We recommend looking at samples in your own backyard, in both the sun and the shade, to see how they really look.
Whether you want a refreshing escape or a dramatic statement piece, we are here to help you get the feeling just right. This decision is a key part of our initial Design Process.
Contact Norfolk Pools today to start chatting about your dream pool.