Family Swimming Pools
Comfortable steps, swimming space and practical seating make a pool useful for afternoons with the kids, friends and family.
FAMILY-OWNED POOL BUILDERS · GREATER AUSTIN
Custom Swimming Pool Construction in Austin, TX
Good People. Great Pools. A Better Building Experience.
A swimming pool should fit more than your backyard. It should fit the way you live. At Darnell Pools, we build custom inground swimming pools with thoughtful design, clear pricing conversations and direct communication with the owners managing your project.
Custom swimming pools starting at $60,500.
Family-owned ✦Permit fees included ✦Owner-managed ✦Transparent pricing ✦Greater Austin ✦Gunite pools & spas ✦Family-owned ✦Permit fees included ✦Owner-managed ✦Transparent pricing ✦Greater Austin ✦Gunite pools & spas ✦
BUILT AROUND YOUR HOME
A Custom Pool. Not a One-Size-Fits-All Package.
Some homeowners want a clean rectangular pool for family time. Others want a compact plunge pool, a spacious swimming area, or a backyard built for entertaining. We help you weigh those options against your property, priorities and investment.
Our starting configurations make it easier to understand pricing, but your finished pool is planned around your home. We explain the choices that affect cost so you can decide where your money matters most.
EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS
Swimming Pools Designed for the Way You Live.
We can help you explore different pool layouts, sizes and features without forcing your backyard into a preset design.
Modern Geometric Pools
Clean lines and balanced proportions can complement contemporary and traditional Austin homes alike.
Compact & Cocktail Pools
A smaller footprint can create a place to cool off and relax while preserving room for patios, landscaping and outdoor gathering areas.
Custom Features & Finishes
Consider tanning ledges, benches, lighting, water features, tile, coping and interior finishes based on how you will use the pool.
CLEAR PRICING FROM THE START
How Much Does a Custom Swimming Pool Cost in Austin?
At Darnell Pools, custom pool-only construction starts at $60,500. That is a starting point, not a fixed quote for every yard or design. Your actual investment depends on dimensions, finishes, equipment, access, excavation and other site requirements.
Custom Pool Only — Starting at $60,500
What affects your final price?
Pool size and shape, excavation conditions, property access, plumbing and equipment, finish selections, decking and site improvements can change the scope and cost.
What about adding a spa?
Custom pool-and-spa projects start at $79,000. These are different starting configurations, not a guaranteed fixed-price spa upgrade.
UNDERSTAND YOUR PROPOSAL
Know What You’re Paying For Before You Build.
A useful pool proposal should clearly explain the design, scope of work, equipment, finish selections, allowances and exclusions. We want homeowners to understand the complete picture—not just a headline number.
Construction specifications
Ask about the pool shell, structural engineering, plumbing, equipment and inspections that apply to your design.
Materials and finishes
Review the exact interior finish, waterline tile, coping and any included decking or upgrades.
Allowances and exclusions
Clarify excavation assumptions, rock-related charges, utilities, permits, landscaping restoration and how changes are priced.
THE DARNELL DIFFERENCE
It’s Not Just About the Pool. It’s About Who Builds It.
A new pool is a major investment and a construction project in your own backyard. We believe you deserve a builder who communicates clearly, explains decisions and treats your project personally.
Direct Access to Our Owners
Bill and Lexi Darnell are personally involved in managing our projects, so you can speak with the people responsible for the work.
Transparent Expectations
We talk through realistic costs, design decisions, scope and possible site complications before construction.
Communication Comes First
We prioritize updates and questions throughout the build so homeowners are not left guessing about the next step.
Quality Without the Attitude
A straightforward family pool deserves the same care and respect as a more elaborate backyard project.
LOCAL CONSTRUCTION KNOWLEDGE
What Should Austin Homeowners Consider Before Building?
The right pool design starts with the realities of your property. Site conditions can influence feasibility, engineering, price and scheduling.
Limestone and rock
Some Central Texas properties contain rock that can make excavation more complex. Ask how rock allowances and unexpected conditions are handled.
Slope and drainage
Elevation changes may require engineering, retaining structures, grading or drainage solutions, and can also inspire creative designs.
Access and utilities
Construction equipment access, easements, setbacks, existing utilities and nearby structures can affect the layout and work methods.
Permits and neighborhood approvals
Permit, inspection and HOA requirements depend on the exact property and jurisdiction. Confirm applicable rules before finalizing the construction schedule.
FROM IDEA TO FIRST SWIM
A Clearer Process. A More Confident Experience.
We help you move from an initial idea to a planned, built and finished pool with clear decisions along the way.
01 — Start with a conversation
Tell us about your backyard, preferred design, goals and comfortable investment.
02 — Review possibilities and pricing
Discuss feasible sizes, features, property conditions and initial pricing expectations.
03 — Design and plan
Develop the project scope, selections, engineering and required approvals.
04 — Build and communicate
Our ownership team oversees construction and keeps communication a priority through the stages of work.
05 — Enjoy your pool
Complete the walkthrough, review operating guidance and enjoy your new backyard.
REAL POOLS. REAL DETAILS.
See What We’ve Built for Austin Homeowners.
Real examples are the best way to understand how design choices and property conditions affect a pool. Explore dimensions, features, materials and pricing when available.
Our Work
Pools we've built across Central Texas.
Every pool is designed and built for the family who uses it. Tap any photo to see it up close.
FAMILY-OWNED. PERSONALLY MANAGED.
Good People. Great Pools.
We’re Bill and Lexi Darnell, the father-daughter team behind Darnell Pools. We believe the people building your pool matter just as much as the pool itself. That’s why we stay personally involved in managing projects and prioritize honest guidance and direct communication.
CUSTOM POOL CONSTRUCTION FAQS
Questions About Building a Custom Pool in Austin?
Here are practical answers to the questions homeowners ask when planning a new inground swimming pool.
How much does a custom inground pool cost in Austin?
Darnell Pools custom pool-only projects start at $60,500. Final costs depend on dimensions, finishes, features, site conditions and the scope of work.
Can I customize my pool instead of buying a package?
Yes. Our example configurations are starting points. We help homeowners consider size, shape, benches, tanning ledges, finishes and other options that suit their backyard and budget.
What does a $75,000 pool budget allow?
Depending on the property and design, this may support a straightforward custom pool with practical features. A site review and specific selections are needed before confirming what fits within that amount.
How long does pool construction take in Austin?
Timelines depend on design, permitting, inspections, weather, scheduling and site conditions. A straightforward project may take a few months, while more complex work can take longer.
Does limestone make a pool more expensive?
It can. Significant rock excavation may require extra labor, equipment or time. Review the excavation allowance and change-order terms before signing.
Can you build a pool on a sloped backyard?
Often, yes. Slopes can require grading, drainage work, retaining structures or engineering. The appropriate design depends on the property and budget.
Can you build a pool in a small backyard?
Often. Compact geometric, plunge and cocktail pools can work well when space is limited, subject to setbacks, easements and construction access.
What size pool is best for a family?
There is no universal best size. Consider swimming, playing, lounging, available space and how much room you want for the rest of your backyard.
What features are worth adding?
Prioritize the features you will use regularly, such as steps, benches, lighting, a tanning ledge or convenient automation, rather than selecting upgrades only for appearance.
What is the difference between a pool-only project and pool and spa?
Pool-only projects focus on the swimming pool; a pool-and-spa design adds a separate heated relaxation area and associated equipment and construction. Darnell Pools pool-and-spa projects start at $79,000.
Who manages my construction project?
Bill and Lexi Darnell are directly involved in managing Darnell Pools projects, giving homeowners access to the people overseeing their work.
Do I need permits or HOA approval?
Requirements depend on the exact property and jurisdiction. Pool permits and inspections may apply, and some neighborhoods require separate HOA or architectural approvals.
What should I compare between builders?
Compare the full scope, engineering, excavation assumptions, equipment, materials, decking, exclusions, payment terms, warranty coverage and communication process—not just the total price.
Can I get pricing before an in-person consultation?
Yes. Request pricing and information to start a conversation about your ideas, property and budget. A detailed quote will require additional project-specific information.
SERVING GREATER AUSTIN
Custom Swimming Pools Across the Austin Area.
Darnell Pools serves Austin and surrounding communities including West Lake Hills, Rollingwood, Lakeway, Bee Cave, Dripping Springs, Spicewood, Cedar Park, Leander, Round Rock, Georgetown and other Greater Austin areas.
Get in touch
Let's talk about your pool.
Tell us what you're envisioning. A simple conversation helps set expectations before any commitments.
Prefer to call? (512) 592-9030