The Moment I Realised My Backyard Needed… Something More
There was a point last summer where I kept finding excuses to sit outside.
Not because my backyard was particularly beautiful—it wasn’t. It was fine. A bit plain. A bit… forgettable. But I noticed how much I craved that “vacation feeling” without actually going anywhere.
And then it hit me.
I didn’t need a luxury resort. I just needed to make my backyard feel like one.
That’s when I started looking into above ground pools. At first, I’ll be honest—they didn’t exactly scream luxury to me. I had this old image in my head… you know, the basic metal frame ones that feel temporary.
But wow, I was wrong.
With the right design choices, these pools can look insanely high-end. Like, “Did you hire a designer?” kind of high-end.
So if you’re sitting there thinking your backyard could use a glow-up, here are some ideas that genuinely changed how I see outdoor spaces.
1. Wrap It in Wood Decking (Instant Upgrade)
This is the one that completely changed my perspective.
The moment you add a wooden deck around an above ground pool, it stops looking like a “temporary setup” and starts feeling like a built-in feature.
What worked for me:
- Matching the deck color with my outdoor furniture
- Adding steps instead of a ladder (huge difference visually)
- Leaving a small lounging area for chairs
It suddenly felt like a place you’d want to spend time in, not just a pool sitting in the yard.
2. Create a Sunken Pool Effect
If you can dig slightly into the ground—even partially—it creates this beautiful “in-ground illusion.”
I saw this in a friend’s yard and honestly had to ask twice if it was above ground.
Tips:
- Sink at least 1–2 feet if possible
- Add stone or tile edging
- Surround it with gravel or grass for a seamless look
It’s subtle, but it tricks the eye in the best way.
3. Add a Poolside Lounge Zone
This one felt unnecessary at first… until I actually did it.
The pool isn’t just about swimming. It’s about hanging out.
Even a small setup works:
- 2 lounge chairs
- A small table
- A large umbrella or shade
I started spending more time around the pool than in it, which I didn’t expect.
4. Use Dark Pool Liners for a Luxe Look
This is such a small detail, but it changes everything.
Instead of bright blue, go for:
- Deep navy
- Charcoal
- Even black
The water suddenly looks deeper and more reflective—almost like those high-end resort pools.
5. Surround It with Plants (Lots of Them)
I underestimated how much greenery matters.
Once I added plants around the pool, it stopped feeling like it was just “placed there” and started feeling intentional.
Ideas that worked well:
- Tall potted palms
- Layered plants at different heights
- A mix of leafy greens and flowering plants
It adds that slightly wild, resort-like softness.
6. Install String Lights (The Evening Glow Is Everything)
I didn’t think I’d care much about nighttime… but now it’s my favorite time.
String lights instantly create:
- Warm ambiance
- Soft reflections on the water
- That cozy “stay outside longer” feeling
Drape them across:
- The deck
- Nearby trees
- Or even a simple DIY frame
7. Add a Privacy Wall or Screen
This one depends on your space, but it’s powerful.
A simple wooden slat wall or bamboo screen can:
- Block unwanted views
- Make the space feel more intimate
- Add a design element at the same time
I didn’t realize how much privacy affects relaxation until I had it.
8. Go for a Circular Stone Border
If decking isn’t an option, this is a great alternative.
Use:
- Gravel
- Pavers
- Natural stone
It frames the pool beautifully and keeps the area clean and intentional.
9. Incorporate a Pergola or Shade Structure
Adding a pergola was one of those “do I really need this?” decisions.
Turns out… yes.
It adds:
- Vertical interest
- Shade (obviously, but also comfort)
- A more “architectural” feel
Even a simple version makes the whole space look designed.
10. Use Matching Outdoor Decor
This is where things start to feel intentional instead of random.
Try to coordinate:
- Cushions
- Planters
- Rugs
- Towels
Nothing has to match perfectly—but having a color palette helps everything feel cohesive.
11. Add a Small Water Feature
A tiny fountain or spillover element adds movement and sound.
And honestly… the sound of water makes everything feel more peaceful.
Even a simple DIY setup can work here.
12. Build a Poolside Bar Cart Area
I tried this on a whim, and it became a favorite.
It doesn’t need to be fancy:
- A rolling cart
- Some glasses
- A few drinks or snacks
It makes the space feel like you’re hosting—even if it’s just you.
13. Use Outdoor Rugs to Define Space
This is one of those small design tricks that makes a big difference.
Place a rug under:
- Seating areas
- Lounge chairs
It visually separates zones and makes everything feel more “room-like.”
14. Paint the Pool Exterior
Most above ground pools come in… not great colors.
Painting the exterior can:
- Modernize the look
- Match your backyard theme
- Make it feel custom
Think:
- Matte black
- Soft beige
- Natural wood tones
15. Add Built-In Bench Seating
Instead of separate chairs, built-in benches feel cleaner and more intentional.
Bonus:
- They save space
- They look custom
- You can add cushions for comfort
16. Create a Gravel Courtyard Vibe
This one surprised me.
Using gravel around the pool (instead of grass) creates a very calm, minimalist feel.
Add:
- A few large stones
- Neutral-toned furniture
It feels almost like a boutique hotel courtyard.
17. Incorporate a Fire Element Nearby
This sounds counterintuitive—fire and water—but it works.
A small fire pit near the pool creates contrast and makes evenings feel special.
I didn’t expect to use it as much as I do.
18. Keep It Minimal (Less Is Actually More)
At one point, I almost over-decorated everything.
Then I pulled a few things back… and it looked better.
Sometimes:
- Fewer colors
- Cleaner lines
- Open space
…makes the biggest impact.
19. Add Personal Touches That Feel Like You
This is the part I didn’t expect to matter so much.
Once I added:
- My favorite outdoor pillows
- A small lantern I already loved
- Music playing softly nearby
It stopped feeling like a “project” and started feeling like my space.
And that’s really the goal.
Final Thoughts: It’s Not About the Pool, Honestly
If there’s one thing I’ve learned through all this… it’s that the pool itself isn’t the magic.
It’s everything around it.
You can take a simple above ground pool and turn it into something that feels thoughtful, relaxing, even a little indulgent—without spending a fortune.
And the best part?
You don’t have to do it all at once.
Start small. Maybe it’s just a couple of chairs. Maybe it’s lights. Maybe it’s finally adding that deck you’ve been thinking about.
It builds over time.
And one day, you’ll step outside and realize…
you kind of created your own little escape.