When it comes to looks, above ground swimming pools get a bad rap. A lot of people have the impression that they’re hopelessly ugly and should be hidden away in a remote corner of the backyard. And, truth be told, there are a lot of less-than-beautiful examples out there that give above ground pools a bad name.
Fortunately, there’s no reason your above ground pool has to be ugly. In fact, there are lots of ways to make it look more presentable – and contrary to what you might think, not all of them involve spending loads of cash. Given how much time you spend around your pool, it’s worth a small investment of time and money to dress it up a little.
The first step toward a better-looking pool is collecting ideas. To get you started, here are some of the best above ground pool decorating ideas that use a variety of different approaches. Any or all of them are great for transforming a backyard pool from an eyesore into eye-candy.
Decking
If you spend some time looking at pictures of above ground pools, you’ll notice that the most beautiful examples tend to have one thing in common – an attached deck. It’s not hard to understand why this is so. Not only are the decks themselves attractive, but they offer an unobstructed view of the water, much like an inground pool.
While above ground pool decks come in lots of forms, the best ones are usually: 1) large, 2) wraparound, and 3) made of pressure-treated wood. Of course, each of those traits adds to the cost. But then, if you really want to maximize your pool’s appearance, there’s no substitute for a nice deck.
Outdoor Decor
It goes without saying that decorations are essential for creating an attractive and inviting pool area. Look for decorations that fit a pool theme and/or create a visual link between the pool and other parts of your property (especially your house). But most importantly, decorate your pool area with things that reflect your personality.
Pool decorations don’t have to be classy. This garden gnome adds an irreverent touch that seems perfect for an afternoon of goofing off in the pool.
Pool decor also encompasses practical items like loungers, towel hooks, supply chests, and so on. Yes, furniture should be comfortable and storage options should be convenient. However, if you look hard enough, you can likely find options that also enhance your pool area’s appearance (or at least don’t detract from it).
Landscaping
Next to decking, landscaping is probably the most important element of a pool area. There are many landscaping options to choose from, but the goal of most of them is to make the pool blend into the environment. Rocks or mulch at the base of the pool are common, along with various types of plants. But honestly, this topic is so wide-ranging that we could write a whole article about it – in fact, we did just that.
Lighting
When the sun goes down, your choice of lighting becomes the dominant factor in your pool’s appearance. There are a lot of different approaches you can take to in-pool lighting, depending on what type of above ground pool you have. However, equally important are the lights around the pool. In both cases, look for lights that make the pool easier and safer to use at night, while also highlighting its most attractive features.
LED glow balls are popular for both inground and above ground pools. This waterproof light changes color, creating a striking effect in or out of the water.
Admittedly, this article only scratches the surface of above ground pool decorating ideas. Of course, decorating is always a highly personal endeavor, and the best ideas often come when you least expect them. So keep looking around this website (along with places like Pinterest) until you get properly inspired.
