Custom Swimming Pools
Custom inground pools designed around your property and priorities. Starting at $60,500.
FAMILY-OWNED · LAKE AUSTIN AREA
Custom Swimming Pool Builders Serving Lake Austin
Good People. Great Pools. A Better Building Experience.
Darnell Pools helps Lake Austin-area homeowners create custom pools and spas designed around their homes, outdoor spaces, and lifestyles. Our family-owned team combines quality construction, transparent pricing, and direct access to ownership.
Custom pools starting at $60,500. Pools and spas starting at $79,000.
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 ✦
YOUR LAKE AUSTIN POOL BUILDER
A Pool That Fits Your Home. A Builder Who Knows Your Project.
Properties around Lake Austin can vary widely in layout, elevation, access, and outdoor living possibilities. We believe the right pool starts with understanding your specific property and how you want to use it.
Darnell Pools is a family-owned Greater Austin builder. Bill and Lexi Darnell personally manage our projects, giving homeowners direct access to the people responsible for construction.
Our approach combines thoughtful design, upfront expectations, and clear communication from planning through completion.
WHAT WE BUILD
Custom Pools, Spas & Outdoor Living Near Lake Austin.
From simple family pools to integrated backyard environments, we help you consider the entire outdoor space.
Custom Pools & Spas
Pool-and-spa designs for swimming and relaxation. Starting at $79,000.
Outdoor Living
Patios, kitchens, gathering spaces, and coordination with other contractors when needed.
Pool Remodeling
Updated finishes, features, and improvements for existing pools.
THE DARNELL DIFFERENCE
It’s Not Just About the Pool. It’s About Who Builds It.
Your builder should make the experience clearer and more comfortable, not more complicated.
Direct Access to Our Owners
Bill and Lexi directly manage projects and remain accessible throughout construction.
Clear Pricing & Expectations
We explain pricing, inclusions, exclusions, and site-related considerations before work begins.
Communication Comes First
We prioritize clear updates and informed decisions.
A Whole-Backyard Perspective
We plan the pool in relation to the home, patio, landscaping, and outdoor living areas.
LAKE AUSTIN POOL PRICING
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Pool Near Lake Austin?
Custom pools at Darnell Pools start at $60,500 and pool-and-spa combinations start at $79,000. These are starting points rather than fixed quotes for every property.
The final investment depends on size, finishes, features, access, excavation, drainage, and engineering. Some hillside or lake-adjacent sites may require additional work.
Custom Pool — Starting at $60,500
A custom inground pool with final pricing based on design and property conditions.
Pool & Spa — Starting at $79,000
An integrated pool and spa with pricing influenced by size, elevation, equipment, and finishes.
What Can a $100,000 Budget Buy?
Depending on the property, this budget may support a family-sized pool and spa with features such as a tanning ledge and decking. A previously featured $92,000 Darnell configuration is an illustration, not a guaranteed Lake Austin price.
LOCAL PROPERTY CONSIDERATIONS
Planning a Pool Around Lake Austin’s Unique Properties.
Lake Austin is an area, not one permitting jurisdiction. Requirements depend on the exact parcel and proposed work.
Slopes & Elevation
Elevation changes may require structural engineering, grading, retaining structures, or drainage solutions.
Limestone & Excavation
Rock excavation can affect equipment needs, timelines, and costs; review excavation allowances.
Construction Access
Narrow access, existing structures, setbacks, and easements can influence design and cost.
Waterfront Considerations
Lake-adjacent properties may face additional restrictions or reviews.
Drainage & Outdoor Design
Plan the pool together with drainage, patios, landscaping, and outdoor circulation.
REAL PROJECTS. REAL PRICING.
See What’s Possible for Your Backyard.
Feature three actual Darnell Pools projects with approved photography, verified locations, dimensions, finishes, and investment figures.
Featured $92,000 Pool & Spa Configuration
Previously featured configuration: 15 × 30 ft pool, 7 × 7 ft raised spa, 5 × 15 ft tanning ledge, travertine coping, QuartzScapes interior, and bubblers.
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.
HOW WE WORK
A Clearer Process. A More Confident Experience.
We help homeowners understand their options and keep communication a priority throughout the project.
01. Let’s Talk
Discuss your goals, budget, property, and desired features.
02. Explore Options
Review possible designs, pricing, and site considerations.
03. Design & Plan
Develop specifications, plans, approvals, and clear expectations.
04. Build With Confidence
Our ownership team manages construction and keeps you informed.
05. Enjoy Your Backyard
Enjoy your new pool and outdoor space.
FAMILY-OWNED. PERSONALLY MANAGED.
Good People. Great Pools.
We’re Bill and Lexi Darnell, the father-daughter team behind Darnell Pools.
We believe homeowners deserve personal attention, honest guidance, and direct communication with the people managing their project.
LAKE AUSTIN POOL BUILDING FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions About Building a Pool Near Lake Austin.
These answers offer general guidance; pricing, site feasibility, and permit requirements depend on your specific property.
How much does a pool cost near Lake Austin?
Darnell Pools custom pools start at $60,500 and pool-and-spa combinations start at $79,000. Final prices depend on design, features, and property conditions.
Are Lake Austin pool projects more expensive?
Not necessarily. Slopes, rock, access, and approvals can add costs on some properties, but location alone does not determine price.
Can you build a pool on a sloped lot?
Often yes, with suitable engineering and site planning. Retaining walls, grading, or drainage work may be needed.
Does limestone increase excavation costs?
It can. Hard rock may require additional labor or equipment. Review excavation allowances and change-order terms.
Who issues pool permits around Lake Austin?
The applicable jurisdiction depends on the exact property. Verify the permit authority and requirements for your parcel before finalizing plans.
Are waterfront properties subject to special restrictions?
They may be. Easements, setbacks, environmental constraints, and other requirements depend on the site and governing authority.
Do I need HOA approval?
Some neighborhoods require architectural or HOA review. Check governing documents before construction.
Can I add a vanishing-edge pool?
Possibly, if the property and budget support the additional engineering, catch basin, and circulation system.
How long does pool construction take?
Timing depends on design, permits, weather, inspections, and site conditions. Straightforward projects may take a few months; complex sites can take longer.
Can you design a pool around a lake view?
Yes, we can explore placement and elevations that complement existing views, subject to site constraints.
What if construction access is limited?
Restricted access may require different equipment or methods and can increase costs. It should be evaluated early.
Can you plan an outdoor kitchen with the pool?
Yes. We consider the entire outdoor space and can help coordinate other contractors when needed.
What should I compare between pool quotes?
Compare specifications, excavation allowances, equipment, finishes, decking, permits, warranty terms, and change-order procedures.
Who manages Darnell Pools projects?
Bill and Lexi Darnell are directly involved in managing projects and communicating with homeowners.
Can I get pricing before an in-person consultation?
Yes. Request pricing and information to discuss your goals, property, budget, and possible next steps.
GREATER AUSTIN SERVICE AREAS
Serving Lake Austin & Nearby Communities.
Darnell Pools serves Greater Austin. Contact us to confirm availability for your address.
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