We dive into a popular overseas swimming pool trend that's starting to make an appearance in the UK. But is it one that's going to make us reach for our cossies and rubber rings?
Could this be the newest swimming pool trend to hit the UK?(Image credit: Cubepools)
If regular heatwaves are making you re-think that a swimming pool might be a good idea to include in your landscaping ideas, there's a new trend you might want to consider.
While it's common to see the main component of the trend used for other home improvement projects such as garden rooms, it's only really been a popular pool choice in other countries such as the USA and Australia – until now.
Not guessed what it is from the image? It's not surprising if you haven't, as it's a makeover you might not expect. We explore whether the growing tend for shipping container swimming pools is worth getting wet for.
What are shipping container swimming pools?
While shipping container homes, or garden room ideas create something new inside the whole container, shipping container swimming pools take a different approach. Rather than using the container as a pool house, at a minimum, the roof is removed, creating an open box that forms the main structure of your pool.
However, the design features don't stop there. Elements such as glass viewing panels in above ground pools are a common addition, while other customisable features include everything from the choice of lining to the type of swimming pool heating you install, to optional underwater lighting, built-in steps and feature decking.
Above ground or below ground, it's also possible to use one inside a pool house or outbuilding to create an indoor swimming pool, confirms Jakub Strzyzewski, marketing director at Cubepools. So why are they becoming a popular choice in the UK?
"The trend for container swimming pools has emerged from a broader movement towards sustainable, modular living and upcycled design," says Jakub. "Container pools have gained momentum as homeowners increasingly seek eco-conscious solutions that are also stylish and functional."
"A more sustainable approach is something we're certainly starting to see more of in garden trends," confirms Beth Murton, editor of Homebuilding & Renovating, who also spent several years at the helm of Gardeningetc.
"It's also become more noticeable in recent years at events like the Hampton Court Flower Show," she notes, "with products such as stock tanks being used to create more natural outdoor plunge pools or cold dip tubs. It all ties in with the need for more eco-friendly homes that also embrace wellness."
Worried that in buying something that's normally reserved for industrial purposes you might actually be buying a shipping container that's no longer fit for purpose? Jakub assures us: "they’re one trip containers, meaning they have been used to transport goods once," a fact corroborated by a number of other supplier websites too.
Stock tanks and shipping container swimming pools are part of a growing trend for sustainable garden design(Image credit: Beth Murton)
Jakub Strzyzewski
Jakub Strzyzewski is the Marketing Director at Cubepools, a leading European manufacturer of container swimming pools. Having been with the company since its early days, Jakub has played a role in shaping the brand and building awareness of modular pool solutions. As part of the growth team, he focuses on expanding Cubepools' presence in new markets and enhancing the customer experience –helping homeowners transform outdoor spaces with sustainable, ready-to-install pools that combine industrial design with contemporary living.
Beth Murton
Beth became editor of Homebuilding & Renovating in 2023 with a wealth of experience, having been a homes journalist and editor for more than 20 years. She has worked for and contributed to a number of leading magazines and websites in the UK, including Grand Designs, Homes & Gardens, Real Homes, Ideal Home and Period Living. She has fully renovated two houses, including her current property, a 1930s house in the Midlands. Her passion for all things homes-related means that she's always planning a new project in the house
How do they work?
Wondering if there's a lot of extra work or much difference to how a shipping container swimming pool works and performs? Not really say the experts. the same basic principles of using insulation, an effective lining and the best pumps and filters apply to these types of swimming pools too.
Essentially, the container is an external box to which you add all the normal features you'd expect from a domestic swimming pool.
"Container pools function just like a traditional skimmer pool built into an insulated container shell," confirms Jakub Strzyzewski. "Water is drawn from the surface via a skimmer into a filtration circuit, and optionally passes through chemical dosing units, UV sanitation lamps or salt chlorination systems.
"It’s then heated and returned clean to the pool. A good supplier, like we do, should always be using proven, industry-standard equipment," he warns, "such as filters, pumps, swim-jets, pool covers and optional chemical dosing systems to ensure reliable water quality and ease of maintenance."
Choosing and installing one
Starting to feel tempted by the trend? Here's what's involved if you are considering choosing and installing a shipping container swimming pool.
Most companies appear to offer two options – a standard pre-finished product, or a bespoke model. The latter will naturally come with higher costs which we'll come onto later, but will naturally give you an even more unique product.
However, there are number of factors you'll need to consider when choosing from the options available says Jakub Strzyzewski:
Size and specification: Most shipping container swimming pools come in three lengths (20, 30 or 40 ft) and can be widened up to 10.5ft, so you'll need to make sure you have enough space for a swimming pool in your garden. Multiple depths are available, and equipment choices can range from standard filtration systems, heat pumps and swim jets, to automatic dosing systems and underwater covers
Above or below ground: Container pools are designed primarily for above-ground installation, but they can be partially or fully recessed depending on your landscaping and aesthetic preferences. Above-ground setups often require less site prep and offer a striking modern look. They require a stable, level base, typically concrete pads or reinforced compacted ground
Power and water: Pools need a power supply, but there is no requirement for constant water supply, as once filled the pools recirculate the water through a filter
Location: Where will your pool go? There's no reason why it can't be used indoors, but you'll still need to consider the size of the completed unit and how it can be delivered. While containers can be craned in, this will naturally add to the overall expense so think carefully about where it will be best positioned
Cover: Have a think about the type of cover you'll want. Options include thermal foils, manual safety covers, and fully automated retractable systems that can be tailored to suit the size and final design
Timing: once you've chosen your standard or bespoke model, delivery time is relatively quick. Around 4 weeks for an off-the-shelf option and up to 6 weeks for a customised product.
Your shipping container swimming pool will need to be placed on a secure and solid base(Image credit: Cubepools)
Shipping container pool costs
As with most swimming pool ideas, shipping container swimming pools will come with a fairly hefty price tag attached. But, potentially a more wallet friendly one than traditional in-ground swimming pool costs.
"They tend to be more affordable than traditional in-ground pools, especially when used above ground," says Jakub Strzyzewski. "Prices start around £27,000 for a 6m pool, but our largest custom builds can reach as high as £110,000 or more.
Eyes watering at the thought? "Even then, the comparable value considering all features is significantly lower compared to a similarly specked traditional pools, especially when factoring in installation time and groundwork," he claims.
"They are also really efficient when it comes to water heating as all our pools use modern heat pumps, are well insulated and feature energy saving pool covers."
You may be able to get a luxe look for less but beware how bespoke you go(Image credit: Cubepools)
Pros and cons
So, as well as the fact they are perhaps a surprisingly sustainable option in your garden design plans and a more cost-effective solution, what are the other pros and cons of opting for a shipping container swimming pool?
Time is likely to be an appealing option for many homeowners says Jakub Strzyzewski.
"The key benefit is that unlike in-ground pools that can take weeks or months, container pools can be delivered, craned into position, and operational within a day."
High on some people's list will also be the lack of 'dirty work' involved in an above ground option – particularly if you've already lived through a long and messy home renovation.
Even though above ground pools will need a stable base, and you'll need to run power to the area if it's not already close by, there's no need for the major excavation normally involved in installing a below ground pool.
"They’re also relocatable," adds Jakub, "meaning they can be craned out and relocated if you ever move. They can also be placed in tough to get locations – we've even installed them on rooftops!
"Lastly, as already noted, they also generally cost less than a cost of building an in-ground pool, but still feature exactly the same premium equipment that’s usually found in traditional pools."
Not the most common way to see a swimming pool being installed(Image credit: Cubepools)
On the flip side...
But what about the negatives? Access may prove to be too difficult for some, and the overall style may not suit all types of garden design. Likewise, there are some limitations to how creative you can be given you're working with a basic rectangular shape. And, if you get carried away with how bespoke you make your shipping container swimming pool, you could potentially find yourself spending the same as a normal swimming pool.
One can't help but also worry about the risks of rust, particularly with a saltwater pool, although most manufacturers say that with the correct rust protection and regular maintenance, shipping container pools generally have a good life span.
They will also have a limited depth, meaning if diving is a favourite activity, you may be better choosing a more traditional pool installation method instead.
Where to buy shipping container swimming pools
There are a number of companies in the UK already selling shipping container swimming pools, including Cubepools, Cabin Depot and Doodle Build. They've also made their way onto shopping sites such as Amazon who offer a range of standard products too.
However, be sure to check out the listings on sites such as Amazon, as once you look further into them, some explain the item can be customised so the price is not necessarily as shown.
20ft 40ft Prefab Shipping Container Swimming Pool With Glass Window Outdoor Above Ground
Crafted from durable shipping containers, this pool offers a sleek, modern look with reinforced structure for long-term use
Tub Tanks Round Cedar Lid
Or, for a smaller industrial style pool option, why not try this metal stock tank with cedar lid as an addition to your decking or patio design
FAQs
How do you clean them?
Cleaning shipping container swimming pools is similar to traditional pools: vacuuming the pool bed, adjusting chemical levels, and backwashing the filter.
"Many customers opt for automated systems or add-ons like UV or saltwater sanitisation for lower maintenance," advises Jakub Strzyzewski.
Do they need much maintenance?
"Maintenance is relatively low," advises Jakub Strzyzewski, "especially with filtration and automation options. Weekly checks and seasonal care are usually sufficient to keep the pool in top condition."
So, do we think they'll really take off in the UK?
"Shipping container swimming pools have been used in overseas homes for many years," confirms Beth, "and I've seen some really creative uses of them. It's interesting to now see them start to become more popular in the UK. And while a swimming pool is often seen as a luxury, this could be one way of embracing the warmer summers in a slightly more cost-effective and environmental way."
If you do decide to investigate the option further, it's worth having a think about your general swimming pool landscaping ideas as they may not suit the more industrial nature of a shipping container. Or, if it's the sustainable element of the trend that appeals the most, you could also weigh up pros and cons of a natural pool vs a traditional pool as well.
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Sarah is Homebuilding & Renovating’s Assistant Editor and joined the team in 2024. An established homes and interiors writer, Sarah has renovated and extended a number of properties, including a listing building and renovation project that featured on Grand Designs. Although she said she would never buy a listed property again, she has recently purchased a Grade II listed apartment. As it had already been professionally renovated, she has instead set her sights on tackling some changes to improve the building’s energy efficiency, as well as adding some personal touches to the interior.
