Traditional Swimming Pools Are Fine, but Patrick and Brittany Mahomes’s Lap Pool Is the Sleekest Way to Go – It Rivals a Wellness Resort
Blending modern minimalism with high-end luxury, their streamlined backyard setup proves that clean lines make the biggest statement
There’s an architectural revolution taking place in celebrity gardens. The era of freeform pools is giving way to something far more disciplined – the lap pool – and Patrick and Brittany Mahomes are the latest in a line of figures (think Alexandra Daddario and Dakota Johnson) who are following suit.
Set in their estate in Belton, Missouri (just south of Kansas City), the couple’s pool idea trades conventional curves for a cleaner geometric alternative. It’s a design choice made with wellness in mind – bridging athletic utility with luxury that rivals that of a private health resort.
Unlike traditonal designs, a lap pool's narrow silhouette can frame a lawn or fit alongside hardscaping without overpowering the landscape. However, beyond its aesthetic appeal, its popularity stems from its versatility.
If you're looking for a small backyard pool idea, this design fits into narrower settings, while adding a structural rhythm that’s just not as possible with its more conventional counterpart.
Shop Homes & Gardens' Lap Pool Area Edit
These woven black chairs prove outdoor furniture can be just as stylish as the pieces inside your home. Made from durable polypropylene, they bring a clean, modern look to a patio while standing up to everyday outdoor use.
This set of two patio chaise loungers makes it easy to create a resort-style setup at home. With multiple reclining positions, you can adjust them for reading, sunbathing in comfort (especially enjoyed after some lengths in a lap pool)
If you want your pool to feel just as inviting after sunset, these floating solar lights are an easy upgrade. They're affordable, require no wiring, and create a beautiful glow with minimal effort.
No poolside setup feels complete without a comfortable lounger, and this one is as practical as it is stylish. Crafted from eucalyptus wood with galvanized steel hardware, it's designed to withstand the elements while looking good season after season.
If you want to add a striking accent to your pool after dark, these floating solar lights are a smart choice. Unlike mains-powered options, solar lights are affordable, easy to install, and come in a wide variety of styles.
This best-selling solar lantern brightens dark borders, edges, and pathways while adding charm to your garden after sunset. Its intricate cut-out design stands out and is sure to spark conversation.
‘A lap pool adds another layer to the whole swimming pool experience by giving the mind and body a clear direction,’ says Kendall Maloof, LMFT, Clinical Director at Eagle Creek Recovery. ‘You swim to one end, turn around, and repeat. When someone feels mentally overloaded, that simple structure can provide a break from making decisions and thinking about several problems at once.’
Kendall points out that from a therapeutic lens, this linear movement brings attention back to the physical self – requiring focus on breathing, movement, and position in the water.
‘There is less room to replay an argument or worry about tomorrow when the mind is focused on completing the next length,’ he notes. ‘This does not mean that swimming removes the problem. It gives the nervous system a chance to settle so the person may return to the problem feeling less overwhelmed.’
While research on aquatic exercise suggests it reduces anxiety symptoms, Kendall clarifies that it shouldn't be framed as a replacement for professional mental health treatment. Rather, a lap pool appeals to homeowners who want their garden to support their daily health.
'A lap pool will not automatically heal mental health; it still requires maintenance, safe access, and regular use. But when integrated thoughtfully into daily life, it becomes a familiar, grounded sanctuary where the mind can briefly rest,' Kendall explains.
By prioritizing cleaner geometry over standard pool shapes, Patrick and Brittany have created a backyard that honors both high performance and restorative peace. It's no wonder it's a trend.
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