Now that you have decided to build a swimming pool, it's time to decide what shape, design and size you want the pool to be. Take a rope into your back yard and let your imagination run wild. Below are some traditional shapes of pools, but remember you are not limited to these. Think about what you will use the pool for, how much room you have to build one and your budget for the pool. Sometimes cutting down on the size of the pool allows you to get options you normally could not afford. Select a pool that you are going to be comfortable with and that you will enjoy for years to come.