Tips AU

20 amazing above ground pool ideas

By Elise Hodge

Updated: January 8th, 2024

Get ready for Summer with a fun pool area that the whole family can enjoy!

Is there anything more relaxing than hanging out by the pool on a warm day with fresh fruit and a nice cold drink? It can be hard to get through those hot summer days without splashing around in cool water. As we’re nearing the end of the year, it’s a good time to start preparing your pool for the warm months ahead.

Whether you have ample space to work with and want a pool for the whole family or a small space to cool off in, there are so many ways you can utilise an above-ground pool in your backyard! Check out these 20 above-ground pool ideas to get started.

1. Stylish Weave

Rattan is all the rage right now, so why not incorporate it in your above-ground pool? Adding a stylish pool outer cover will look great and it can also help match your home decor as well.

Large above-ground expansion pool with woven pattern

2. Chill Space

Adding an outdoor lounge area next to your pool will help it to look like part of the scenery, plus you’ll have a cool place for everyone to hang out while you’re watching everyone in the pool. What a cool, relaxing space to hang out!

sun loungers in a garden with garden pool

3. Modern Landscape

Here’s a modern and more permanent take on an above-ground pool. You can have concrete steps leading up to the pool area, where lounge chairs and a large umbrella await. If you have the space, you can add a cooking and hangout area for entertaining guests.

View to a terraced backyard with a pool

4. Oval Pool

If round or rectangle don’t work with your landscape, why not go for an oval pool? Plants, lanterns and decor pieces soften the pool’s look and make the overall area inviting.

Rattan above-ground pool near a fence
Image: Canva AI Image Generator

5. Glass walls

Looking for something a little more fancy? You can have glass walls for your pool. These transparent panels create a stunning visual effect and serve practical purposes. They offer unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, allowing you to enjoy your pool while keeping an eye on children or pets.

Luxury villa exterior design with beautiful glass infinity pool

6. Small spaces

Designing an above-ground pool for small spaces can be a creative challenge, but these compact pools are ideal for homeowners with limited yard space. By carefully planning and optimising your layout, even the cosiest spaces can become a refreshing retreat for relaxation and fun.

Small covered garden swimming pool in a grassy garden

7. Floral Border

If you’re still not sure an above-ground pool is for you because you’re worried it will look bulky in your space, why not consider adding some flowers? A floral border will soften the pool’s edges and add colour to your space. How beautiful!

Above ground swimming pool near decking and flowers

8. Pool cover

An above-ground pool cover is a must-have addition to any backyard oasis. They serve as a protective shield, keeping leaves, debris, and insects in your garden out of your pool. This means less time spent on maintenance and more time enjoying crystal-clear water.

Blue tarpaulin pool cover

9. Pool fountain

Pool fountains are a delightful addition to any above-ground pool, transforming it into a captivating water feature. These decorative elements not only enhance the aesthetics of your pool but also create a soothing atmosphere with the gentle sound of flowing water

flowing water decorated in swimming pool

10. Sitting by the Pool

One of the positives to having an above-ground pool is adding your lounge area or bar to sit on! Just add some comfortable chairs or sofas. You have a sophisticated area to sit in and enjoy a drink while the kids are in the pool.

luxury beach house with a sunken seating area and pool

11. Stunning Views

Stunning views are a vital consideration when planning the location of your above-ground pool. By strategically positioning your pool, you can take full advantage of your property’s natural beauty. The proper placement can turn your pool area into a mesmerising retreat, whether it’s a picturesque countryside, a lush garden, or a scenic waterfront.

Wood above-ground pool on side of a property with mountain views
Image: Dimitris Kiriakakis on Unsplash

12. Blue Tile

Blue tile is a timeless choice for enhancing the aesthetics of your above-ground pool. These tiles can be used to create a beautiful and inviting pool interior. Blue, the colour of water, complements the natural look of your pool, giving it a refreshing and serene vibe.

swimming pool near palm trees during daytime
Image: Aswin Balakrishnan on Unsplash

13. Wrap-around Deck

When you have an above-ground pool, you will need some steps or decking to get into the pool, and a wrap-around decking does the trick. This deck style enhances safety by creating a barrier between the pool and the rest of your yard. Whether you are looking for a place to sunbathe, socialise, or relax, a wrap-around deck can transform your above-ground pool into a stylish and functional retreat.

wooden pool deck and railing

14. Timber Detail

Having timber around your above-ground pool will make the area look warm and inviting. With its natural appeal, Timber effortlessly blends your pool’s aesthetics with the surrounding environment. Whether you build a wooden deck, pathway, or fence, timber enhances the overall ambience.

pool with timber detail near deckchair

15. Gazebo

Adding a gazebo to your above-ground pool and garden area is a brilliant idea that combines both style and functionality. A gazebo serves as an elegant focal point and offers shade and shelter, making it a versatile space for relaxation and entertainment.

A modern island villa with open living room, swimming pool, gazebo

16. Curved Pool

A curved pool design is a fantastic way to add a touch of elegance and uniqueness to your above-ground pool. Unlike traditional rectangular pools, curved pools have a more organic and flowing shape that mimics the contours of your landscape. This design looks visually appealing and creates a sense of movement and dynamism in your outdoor space.

Empty curved swimming pool with clean clear water

17. Warmth with Wood

Wood does add so much warmth and comfort to any area. Incorporating wooden elements such as decking or fencing can infuse a natural and cosy atmosphere into your pool’s surroundings. Wooden decks offer a comfortable and slip-resistant surface for lounging and sunbathing, while wooden fencing can provide privacy and an earthy aesthetic.

poolside deck with railing

18. Thatched Border

A thatched fence is a charming and unique addition that can bring a touch of tropical paradise to your above-ground pool area. Typically made from natural materials like palm fronds or reed thatch, these fences provide privacy and create a rustic and exotic ambience.

closeup of a garden pool near a thatched fence

19. Metal Frames

Metal frames are the structural backbone of most above-ground pools. Typically made from steel or aluminium, these frames provide the pool’s shape and support the pool liner and wall. Metal frame pools are known for their strength, making them a reliable choice for above-ground pool installations.

large above ground rectangular swimming pool surrounded by plants in a garden

20. Lots of Room

The final above-ground pool idea is a huge pool with lots of room for everyone! If you have the space for it, a large pool installation is the way to go, as there will be so much room for the kids to play and for you to do laps!

Empty above ground swimming pool in a backyard

So there we have it: 20 above-ground pool ideas from which you can draw inspiration as you prepare for summer! Which pool areas did you like the best? Let us know in the comments below!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Elise H

I've recently moved into a new home and I've been having so much fun decorating it with pretty wall prints and Scandinavian-inspired furniture. So as well as being a freelance writer, I'm always on the lookout for new design pieces for my home!

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