An above ground pool can be just as inviting, stylish, and functional as an in-ground pool — with the right upgrades and design choices. Whether you’ve just installed a new pool or have had the same model for years, you don’t have to settle for a simple, utilitarian setup. By applying smart design ideas, using high-quality materials, and incorporating thoughtful touches, you can elevate your above ground pool from ordinary to extraordinary. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through practical, step-by-step ways to enhance the aesthetics and usability of your outdoor pool area.
1. Understand the Limitations and Opportunities of Above Ground Pools
Before jumping into decorating tips, it’s essential to understand the unique characteristics of above ground pools. Unlike in-ground pools, they sit above the surrounding landscape, which can create an elevated look. While that can add a charming architectural element, it also presents unique challenges when integrating with the rest of your backyard.
Here are some key factors that affect how you can beautify your above ground pool:
- Visibility of the metal or composite walls can be off-putting to some.
- Surrounding space is often limited, so choosing space-efficient designs is key.
- Water chemistry and maintenance still apply, so it’s crucial to keep the pool itself clean and well-maintained for a pleasant visual experience.
By recognizing these aspects early, you’ll better understand how to work with, rather than against, your pool’s structure.
2. Enhance Visual Appeal with Custom Landscaping
Landscaping is one of the most effective ways to beautify your above ground pool area. With thoughtful plant placement, hardscaping, and elevation techniques, you can create a lush, luxurious environment.
Use Taller Plants to Conceal Pool Walls
One of the easiest and most attractive ways to mask the look of metal walls is by using taller plants strategically. Plants like:
- Ornamental grasses (such as muhly grass or pampas grass)
- Shrubs like hibiscus or holly that offer greenery and, sometimes, blooms
- Evergreen trees such as arborvitae or boxwood
Create a layered effect around the pool, ensuring the plants don’t overhang and drop debris into the water.
Add Elevated Garden Beds
Elevated garden beds around the pool perimeter not only provide beauty but also help blend the structure into the landscape. You can build these beds using materials like:
- Timber
- Natural stone
- Concrete or composite lumber
Fill them with colorful flowering plants or evergreens for year-round interest.
Incorporate Hardscaping Features
Hardscape features like stone pathways, retaining walls, or decorative borders can elevate the pool area while blending the structure into its surroundings. Consider using:
- Flagstone around the pool’s base
- Brick or concrete pavers to create a patio or pool deck
- Decorative fencing to define the area stylishly
3. Upgrade Your Pool Deck or Surrounding Flooring
The surface immediately around your pool significantly impacts its appearance and usability.
Choose the Right Deck Material
A bland, concrete pad or a simple tarp around your above ground pool may be functional, but it’s far from aesthetically pleasing. Upgrade your poolside flooring to something more elegant and durable:
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Wood Decking | Natural aesthetic, customizable | Requires maintenance, can be slippery |
| Composite Decking | Durable, low maintenance, slip-resistant | Higher initial cost |
| Concrete Pavers | Long-lasting, color/motif variety | Needs sealing to reduce heat and stains |
| Pea Gravel or Stone | Permeable surface, cost-effective | Can be hard to keep clean |
If budget is a concern, start with one key area like the main entering side or lounge area before redoing all surrounding flooring.
Add Lighting to the Decking
Safety lighting or decoration-focused lights can transform your space at night:
- LED deck lights built into handrails or stairs
- Low-voltage landscape lights along pathways
Proper lighting enhances safety, adds ambiance, and increases usability into the evening.
4. Install a Privacy Screen or Pool Enclosure
If aesthetics and privacy are a concern, especially in crowded neighborhoods, using enclosures or screens is a great option.
Wood and Vinyl Fences
A partial or full fence around your pool serves dual purposes – adding style and creating a dedicated, clean-looking boundary. Choose materials that match your house and existing outdoor decor.
Outdoor Curtains
If you prefer a semi-open design, adding weather-resistant outdoor curtains to a pergola or canopy can soften the space and add breezy elegance.
Natural Screens with Trees or Shrubs
Deciduous or evergreen trees planted strategically can provide year-round screening. Shrubs like boxwoods, laurels, or bamboo can also provide dense, natural barriers.
5. Consider a Pool Skirt or Wall Covering
One of the main visual challenges with above ground pools is the exposed sides that often appear bulky and industrial.
Rattan or Wicker Skirts
Custom-made or modular pool skirts with vinyl or wicker exteriors wrap neatly around the base of your pool, giving it a soft, finished appearance. Some include storage compartments or shelves as an added bonus.
Natural Materials for a Rustic Look
For a more natural or organic style, use materials like:
- Bamboo screening
- Wooden lattice or picket panels
These can blend with the landscape beautifully and create a tropical backyard vibe.
Build a Coordinated Pool Frame
If you’re comfortable with DIY or can hire a contractor, design a built-in structure around the pool’s base that doubles as storage or seating. A bench, tile border, or small planters can help integrate the structure into the landscape.
6. Enhance Functionality and Comfort with Poolside Accessories
The little details you add make a big difference in creating a resort-like experience.
Provide Comfortable Lounge Areas
Invest in quality outdoor loungers with UV-resistant cushions. Alternatively, build built-in benches in the pool ledge or around the perimeter.
Add Shade – Umbrellas, Pergolas, or Cabanas
Prolonged sun exposure can be harsh and discouraging. Add shade with:
- Cantilever umbrellas
- Wood or vinyl pergolas for architectural charm
- Poolside cabanas for storage and occasional privacy
Install a Poolside Bar or Snack Station
A small wet bar, serving table, or even bar-style stools along the side of the pool wall allows for social interaction and convenience during pool parties.
7. Create an Inviting Atmosphere with Pool Lighting
The right lighting design turns your above ground pool from ordinary to magical.
Underwater Pool Lights
While not all above ground pools can accommodate standard in-wall pool lights, there are many floating or suction-cup LED lights that add a vibrant glow to the water.
Decorative String Lights
Hang weatherproof string lights between trees or poolside structures to add a romantic ambiance in the evenings.
Pathway and Accent Lighting
Install low-voltage landscape lights along walkways, around decks, or within flowerbeds. These guide guests safely while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
8. Use the Right Color Palette to Improve Visual Harmony
Color plays a crucial role in how inviting and aesthetically pleasing your pool area becomes.
Choose Colors Based on Surrounding Environment
Match your patio furniture, umbrellas, and decor to the colors of nearby buildings, foliage, or furniture:
- Coastal homes: nautical blues, bright whites, sandy beiges
- Modern homes: neutrals, greys, sharp blacks
- Traditional or rustic: woody browns, forest greens, cream tones
Coordinate with Swimsuits, Towels, and Decor
Having color-coordinated towels or loungers gives the space a more curated and intentional design.
9. Maintain Cleanliness and Order
No matter how stylish your pool area is, a cluttered or dirty pool can quickly lose appeal. This is where maintenance and attention to detail make a world of difference.
Keep the Water Crystal Clear
Use a reliable filtration and chemical balance system. Consider maintenance contracts or scheduling regular maintenance times to keep your pool in optimal condition.
Store Pool Equipment Properly
Use baskets, storage benches, or purpose-built pool storage cabinets to keep pool chemicals, toys, hoses, and cleaning equipment tucked away neatly.
Routinely Maintain Surrounding Areas
Keep your deck, plants, and hardscape areas clean. Sweep regularly, trim nearby plants, and pressure wash your deck when needed.
10. Add Fun and Personalized Touches for Customization
Personalizing your pool area makes the space feel like your own private escape.
Custom Pool Art or Decals
Floating pool decorations or sun-reflective films can add a whimsical, colorful touch to your pool.
Potted Plants and Decorative Containers
Place colorful or textured pots around the pool with seasonal plants or durable greenery to match the time of year.
Outdoor Rugs and Throw Pillows
Weather-resistant rugs can dramatically change the feel of the deck or lounge area around your pool.
Install a Sound System
Create a resort ambiance with a waterproof outdoor speaker system that syncs with your phone for background music during pool gatherings.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a high-end in-ground pool to enjoy a backyard that looks like a million-dollar retreat. With a little creativity, planning, and DIY courage, you can turn your existing above ground pool into a beautiful and highly functional outdoor space worth showing off. Whether it’s customizing with strategic landscaping, adding luxury furniture, building a stylish pool skirt, or creating intimate lighting ambiance, every decision that enhances aesthetics also improves your pool experience.
By taking the time to beautify and upgrade your area, you’re not just investing in a nicer swim — you’re enhancing your lifestyle and increasing your enjoyment of your home during peak warm months.
So go ahead – start transforming your above ground pool area into the backyard resort you’ve always dreamed of. It’s not just about the water, but about the entire experience that makes your pool feel like an oasis away from home.
How can I enhance the appearance of my above ground pool?
You can enhance the appearance of your above ground pool by incorporating landscaping, decking, and decorative elements. Adding wooden or composite decking around the pool creates a seamless transition from your yard to the water, while plants such as tropical flowers, shrubs, or potted greenery can soften the pool’s structure and blend it into the surroundings. Consider using stone or vinyl edging to cover the exposed pool wall for a more polished look.
Lighting and accessories also play a major role in beautifying your pool area. Solar-powered or LED lights can be placed along walkways, around the pool perimeter, or even floating in the water for a magical nighttime ambiance. Simple additions like stylish pool floats, outdoor loungers with colorful cushions, and a matching umbrella or pergola can elevate the entire aesthetic and turn your pool into a focal point of relaxation and enjoyment.
What types of plants work best around an above ground pool?
Low-maintenance, non-invasive plants are ideal for poolside landscaping. Opt for species that don’t shed a lot of leaves or flowers that could fall into the water and create debris. Ornamental grasses, peace lilies, mondo grass, and compact shrubs are great choices. Potted plants are especially beneficial because they can be easily moved and controlled, allowing for flexible design and minimal maintenance.
When choosing plants, also consider their growth habit and proximity to the pool. Trees with shallow roots can damage decking or pool equipment over time, so they should be planted at a safe distance. Aromatic plants like lavender or jasmine near seating areas can enhance the sensory experience around your pool, while succulents and cacti are ideal for a modern, drought-tolerant look. Always check if the selected plants are pet and child-safe if applicable.
How do I build a deck around my above ground pool?
Building a deck around your above ground pool begins with planning the layout, size, and materials. Choose pressure-treated wood, composite decking, or PVC for durability and weather resistance. You’ll need a solid foundation—either concrete piers or ground-level blocks—to support the structure. Framing and joists are then installed before laying the decking boards, ensuring proper slope for water drainage away from the pool area.
Consider hiring a professional unless you have experience in carpentry and construction, since mistakes can compromise safety and aesthetics. Incorporate built-in seating, stairs, or lighting to add functionality. The deck should extend far enough around the pool to allow for walking space and lounging, typically at least 3 to 4 feet on all sides. Once finished, apply a sealant or stain to protect the surface and enhance the visual appeal.
What type of pool lighting is best for creating a beautiful ambiance?
For optimal ambiance around an above ground pool, consider a combination of floating, underwater, and perimeter lighting options. Floating LED lights add a fun and colorful glow to the water and are easy to install since they simply float on the surface. Underwater pool lights, while more complex to install, offer a professional and inviting effect that enhances both beauty and safety.
For the surrounding area, solar-powered stake lights or low-voltage path lights placed along the deck or around landscaping are ideal. These can highlight specific design features such as steps, plants, or seating areas. You can also use string lights overhangs or pergolas for a cozy, resort-like feel. Dimmable or color-changing LED options allow you to customize the mood for different occasions, and timers or smart controls can automate lighting schedules.
How can I incorporate seating and lounging areas around my pool?
Create comfortable lounging areas around your above ground pool by strategically placing furniture and shaded spots. Wicker loungers, all-weather chaise chairs, and cushioned benches around the deck provide relaxation options and add style. Arrange the seating in groupings to encourage conversation, and place one section near the edge to allow for convenient access to the pool.
For added comfort, include shade elements such as umbrellas, pergolas, or retractable canopies. These protect loungers from the sun and reduce the need for constant repositioning throughout the day. Incorporating a small side table or built-in storage for towels, sunscreen, and drinks also adds convenience. Hammocks, swings, or daybeds nearby can offer alternative lounging experiences and contribute to the overall oasis vibe of your backyard pool space.
What are some affordable ways to beautify my above ground pool area?
You don’t have to spend a fortune to make your pool area more attractive. Start with inexpensive upgrades like outdoor rugs, colorful umbrellas, and decorative pillows to brighten the space and add personal touches. Adding planters filled with seasonal flowers and greenery is another cost-efficient way to improve aesthetics without major construction or expense.
Painting or staining the existing deck, adding a stone or brick border around the base of the pool, and hanging solar lights or wind chimes can also transform the look dramatically. Floating pool fountains or LED lights bring a spa-like atmosphere to the water itself. Lastly, keep the area neat and organized with storage bins for pool toys and supplies, which helps maintain a clean, inviting environment with minimal investment.
Can I use artificial turf around my above ground pool?
Yes, artificial turf is an excellent option for use around an above ground pool, offering both beauty and practicality. It provides a soft, lush surface that stays green year-round without the need for mowing, watering, or fertilizing. This makes it ideal for poolside areas where barefoot comfort and low maintenance are priorities. Its drainage capabilities also prevent water from pooling on the surface, enhancing safety.
When installing artificial turf, be sure to prepare the area properly by leveling the ground and adding a base layer of crushed stone or sand for stability and drainage. The turf can be wrapped around part or all of the pool and can be paired with pavers or wooden decking for contrast and visual interest. It’s also resistant to chlorine spills and UV rays, ensuring it retains its color and texture even under direct sunlight.