Antalya is a paradise for villa owners with a climate that allows pool enjoyment for nearly 8 months of the year. A pool is no longer just a swimming area; it is an investment that integrates with your home's landscape, becomes the center of social life, and directly increases property value. In 2026, pool design trends bring together aesthetics, technology, and sustainability. With the right design and material choices, your pool becomes your villa's most valuable asset. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know if you are considering building a villa pool in Antalya.
Infinity Pools
Infinity pools pair perfectly with Antalya's sea and mountain views. They are the most popular pool type, especially for hillside villas:
- Overflow edge design: The illusion of water overflowing from one or two edges creates the feeling of the pool merging with the view. A single overflow edge is more economical, while a double overflow edge is more striking.
- View integration: Especially for hillside villas, overflow edges facing sea or valley views create a mesmerizing effect. Positioning the overflow edge toward the view is critically important.
- Night lighting: LED underwater and perimeter lighting creates a unique nighttime atmosphere. RGB LED systems with colour-changing capabilities take the pool to another dimension after dark.
- Technical requirements: Infinity pools require a more powerful pump system and an overflow basin compared to standard pools. The collection channel, balancing tank, and return system all require specialised engineering design.
Natural Stone Pools
Natural stone is one of the most defining features of Mediterranean architecture and an indispensable material in pool design:
- Travertine coping: Antalya's local travertine sources create both aesthetic and heat-resistant pool edges. Travertine does not overheat in sunlight, making it ideal for walking barefoot.
- Rock-type pools: Organically shaped pools that mimic natural rock formations integrate perfectly with the garden. Waterfall, cave, and natural pond effects create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
- Marble mosaics: Marble mosaic cladding offers a premium look for pool interior surfaces. Glass mosaic alternatives provide more vibrant colours and light reflections.
- Antalya travertine: Locally sourced Antalya travertine reduces transportation costs while delivering an authentic Mediterranean aesthetic. Its warm tones and natural patterns complement every villa style.
Heated Pool Systems
For those wanting to extend the pool season to 12 months in Antalya, various heating options are available. Choosing the right system is decisive for both comfort and operating costs:
- Heat pump: The most efficient heating method. Produces 4-5 units of heat per 1 unit of energy. It operates efficiently even during Antalya's mild winters. Although the initial investment is higher, operating costs are the lowest of all options.
- Solar heating: Heating pool water with solar panels on the roof is highly effective in Antalya. During summer months, it maintains ideal water temperature at no additional energy cost.
- Pool cover: Automatic pool covers reduce nighttime heat loss by 70%. When used alongside a heating system, they dramatically increase energy savings. They also prevent leaf and dust contamination.
- Hybrid systems: Solar energy + heat pump combination for maximum efficiency. Solar energy kicks in on sunny days, while the heat pump takes over on cloudy days. This combination provides year-round ideal water temperature at the lowest cost.
Modern pool construction combines aesthetics and technology.
Landscape Integration
The pool should be an integral part of the villa's landscape. Planning the pool and landscaping together during the villa renovation process produces a cohesive and impressive result:
- Mediterranean plants: Olive trees, bougainvillea, lavender, and jasmine create a tropical atmosphere around the pool. These plants are well-adapted to Antalya's climate, so their maintenance requirements are low.
- Sunbathing terrace: Natural stone or WPC deck, lounge areas, and shade structures beside the pool. Pergolas or awnings should be used for sun control.
- Outdoor kitchen: BBQ area, bar counter, and seating groups at poolside create a social living space. Ceramic or granite countertops are durable under outdoor conditions.
- Shower and changing area: A garden shower and concealed changing cabin enhance comfort. Solar-heated shower water creates no additional energy cost.
- Night lighting design: Ground-level lighting, plant spotlights, and decorative lanterns around the pool create an evening atmosphere. Solar-powered garden lights operate at no electricity cost.
Smart Pool Technologies
In 2026, pool technologies have seen major advances. Smart systems make pool maintenance easier while also reducing operating costs:
- Automatic pH and chlorine control: Continuous water chemistry monitoring with sensors and automatic dosing. This eliminates the hassle of manual measurement and chemical addition.
- Robotic pool cleaner: Automatic bottom and wall cleaning robots. Programmable cleaning routines keep the pool spotless at all times.
- Smartphone control: Remotely control pool temperature, pump, lighting, and filtration systems. You can manage your pool even when you are not at home.
- Energy-efficient pumps: Variable-speed pumps providing up to 70% energy savings. They automatically adjust pump speed according to filtration schedules.
- Saltwater chlorination: A salt electrolysis system produces natural chlorine in the pool water. It provides hygienic water without chemical odour and reduces the risk of eye and skin irritation.
Pool Types and Cost Comparison
Approximate cost, construction time, and features vary significantly by pool type. The right choice should be made according to your budget and needs:
- Reinforced concrete pool: The most common and customisable type. Can be built in any desired size and shape. Construction time is 4-8 weeks. It is the longest-lasting pool type (50 years and above). Can be finished with mosaic, ceramic, or liner.
- Prefabricated pool: Quick installation (1-2 weeks), limited shape options. Fibreglass or polyester body. A more economical option, but with size and shape limitations. Transport and installation depend on access conditions.
- Infinity pool: Premium segment, additional overflow system cost over reinforced concrete. Requires 30-50% more budget than a standard reinforced concrete pool. However, the aesthetic impact and contribution to property value are very high.
- Natural/biological pool: Chemical-free, plant filtration system. A natural pond appearance that is environmentally friendly with low operating costs. Requires more space because the filtration zone should be approximately half the pool area.
Maintenance and Operating Costs
Owning a pool involves not just construction costs but also ongoing maintenance and operating expenses. Knowing these in advance helps you avoid surprises:
- Chemical costs: Monthly chlorine, pH regulators, and algaecide materials must be purchased regularly. When using a saltwater system, these costs decrease significantly.
- Electricity costs: Monthly electricity consumption for pump, filtration, and lighting varies depending on pool size. Variable-speed pumps and solar panel integration can reduce this cost to a minimum.
- Seasonal maintenance: The pool should be winterised during cold months and prepared for the season opening in spring. Water level adjustment, equipment inspection, and thorough cleaning are carried out during these periods.
- Annual inspection: Pump, filter, plumbing system, and surface coating should receive annual inspection and maintenance. Catching small issues early prevents major repair expenses.
- Professional cleaning: Weekly or biweekly professional pool cleaning service ensures your pool is always ready for use. This service is especially convenient for villas used as holiday homes.
Permits and Licensing Process
Building a villa pool in Antalya requires meeting certain legal requirements. You can find general licensing information in our guide on villa renovation processes:
- Zoning status inquiry: Make sure your plot's zoning plan is suitable for pool construction. The plot's building coverage ratio (BCR) and total construction area calculation may also take the pool area into account.
- Building permit: Pools above a certain size may require a building permit from the municipality. The permit application requires a pool project, structural calculations, and plumbing plans.
- Environmental regulation: A sewage connection or treatment system is required for pool water drainage. Water discharge must be planned in compliance with environmental regulations.
- Safety requirements: For child safety, the pool perimeter must be enclosed with a fence or barrier, and a pool cover or alarm system must be installed. These measures are important both as a legal obligation and for safety.
2026 Pool Design Trends
In 2026, distinct trends are emerging in pool design. These trends add a new dimension to pool design in terms of both aesthetics and functionality:
- Plunge pool (mini pool): Compact pools ideal for small gardens and terrace areas are gaining popularity. Even in small dimensions such as 3x4 metres, they offer the opportunity to cool off and relax.
- Dark-coloured pool finishes: Instead of traditional blue, dark grey, black, or green finishes are trending. Dark colours give the water a natural pond appearance and create a more sophisticated aesthetic.
- Integrated spa and jacuzzi: Designing a section of the pool as a hot water spa area. Designs that allow water flow and transition between the swimming pool and spa are in demand.
- Glass-edged pools: The use of transparent glass panels on one or more sides of the pool. An impressive design element for both aesthetics and views.
- Sustainable pool systems: Solar-powered heating, natural filtration, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient equipment are becoming essentials of environmentally friendly pool design.
"Pool design reflects the soul of the villa. The right design creates a vacation feeling every day."
To make your dream villa pool a reality, contact us. We are at your service for free site inspection, 3D design, and detailed cost analysis.