How do you make a small above-ground pool look nice?

Having a small above-ground pool in your backyard can be a great way to cool off and have fun during the hot summer months. However, these types of pools have a reputation for looking a bit tacky or cluttered. With some simple upgrades and decorating tricks, you can easily transform your above-ground pool into a beautiful backyard oasis.

Choose the Right Location

One of the most important factors in making your above-ground pool look nice is choosing the right location. Here are some tips for picking the ideal spot:

• Select a flat, level area of your yard – this will make installation easier and ensure the pool stays stable.
• Choose a spot with full sun exposure – this will keep the water warmer.
• Pick a space away from trees – you want to avoid leaves and debris falling into the pool.
• Find a location with privacy – situate it out of view from neighbors or the street.
• Keep it near the house for access but not too close – you don’t want water splashing on your home’s foundation.

Taking the time to find the right area of your yard will pay off in the long run. The pool will look and function better in a carefully considered spot.

Select an Attractive Pool Shape and Size

Above-ground pools come in a variety of shapes these days – you’re no longer limited to just circular pools. Consider an oval, rectangular or square footprint for a more customized look. Just keep local codes in mind, as some areas restrict certain pool shapes and dimensions allowed in backyard settings.

Opt for the largest size you can comfortably fit and afford. Even an extra few feet in diameter or length can make a difference visually. Measure thoroughly so you select the maximum dimensions allowed that suit your yard.

An oblong or rectangular shape can be especially attractive, allowing you to incorporate one long side along a fence or backyard edge. This can give the pool a nice built-in look.

Choose a Neutral, Attractive Color

Most above-ground pools feature blue or white laminated sidewalls. While classic, these can sometimes appear dated. Today’s pools are available in a wider range of colors and patterns that can better blend in with your backyard decor.

Soft neutral tones like beige, gray and tan are great choices and can help the pool complement hardscapes like stone or concrete. Just steer clear of bold colors that will clash or feel loud in your yard.

Many pool walls now offer mixed patterns that incorporate several colors or textures. Look for options like these:

• Neutral tones blended together in a random, mosaic-like pattern
• A simple two-tone color combination like beige and gray
• Faux wood or stone finishes that mimic natural materials

The right pool color and pattern can provide visual interest and make the pool seem like a seamless backyard feature rather than an out-of-place eyesore.

Select Durable Accessories in a Matching Color Scheme

The ladder, pump, filter, tubing and other pool accessories can quickly make a space look cluttered. Choose options that match or complement your pool color so everything ties together neatly:

• Opt for neutral toned accessories (gray, beige, black stainless steel)
• Look for products that blend rather than contrast
• Select covered pumps and filters in coordinating colors
• Choose ladders, handrails, steps and hardware in colors that align with your pool’s look

Quality accessories that disappear rather than stick out will streamline the look and highlight the pool itself.

Soften the Pool Edge

Most above-ground pools have exposed side walls that end abruptly where the pool meets the ground. This can create a harsh-looking edge and make the pool appear like an artificial add-on.

There are several easy ways to soften this pool edge so it blends in better:

• Install small garden beds or pots with flowers around the pool perimeter
• Extend brick, stone or tile paving from patios right up to the pool edge
• Grade soil gently up to the pool rather than an abrupt angle
• Add rounded Copping stones around the pool to ease the transition from pool to lawn
• Plant low hedges or bushes around the perimeter to hide the pool edge

A gentle, landscaped border will help the above-ground pool look like a natural backyard feature rather than an afterthought.

Incorporate Design Features

Steps, borders, pathways and other design details can help your above-ground pool feel custom-made for your yard. Incorporate features like:

• Paving stones leading from patios up to pool steps or ladders
• Privacy screens made of carefully placed plants or fences
• Raised or built-in spas connected to the main pool area
• Rock elements like boulders and water features
• Poolside sitting areas with paths, borders and defined spaces

Thoughtful design around the pool area instantly boosts the look beyond just plopping a pool in the middle of the grass.

Include Plenty of Poolside Plants

No pool area is complete without the addition of lots of plants. Use a mix of flowers, shrubs, trees and grasses to make your above-ground pool feel like a natural garden oasis. Plants help in several important ways:

• Soften straight lines and sharp edges of the pool and decking
• Add color and visual interest with flowers and foliage
• Screen unattractive views like fences and equipment
• Provide shade to keep the area cooler and more comfortable
• Help the pool blend into the yard and look built-in

Be strategic with plant placement. Border the perimeter, anchor corners with specimen trees, accent with pots of annuals and fill in gaps with lush greenery.

Add Special Lighting Features

For nighttime ambiance, include pool lighting that adds flair and function:

• In-pool lighting – colored LEDs or mini spotlights create a beautiful shimmer
• Deck lighting – path lights and step lights improve safety and visibility
• Dramatic uplighting – shine accent lights into trees or on architectural elements
• Ambient lighting – string lights, lanterns and wall sconces set the mood

Make sure to coordinate any lighting fixture colors and finishes so they match the overall pool area for a cohesive look.

Include Fun Accessories

The right accessories provide finishing touches that show you’ve put thought into creating a full backyard experience. Incorporate details like:

• Pool floats and rafts for fun
• Inflatable drink holders to keep beverages nearby
• Weatherproof pillows and cushions for lounging comfort
• Tabletop fire pits or chimineas to warm up at night
• Planters and pots holding small palms or bamboo
• Outdoor rugs in coordinating colors and patterns

Little touches like these add to the ambiance and help a small above-ground pool feel like a tropical getaway right at home.

Keep It Sparkling Clean

No amount of beautiful landscaping can distract from a cloudy, dirty pool. Maintain the water quality with regular chemical testing and balancing. Use pool vacuums and skimmers to pick up leaves and debris quickly. And brush the pool walls regularly to keep them algae-free and looking good as new.

A crystal clear pool surrounded by gorgeous landscaping is a backyard oasis. Follow these tips and even a small above-ground pool can feel like a custom-designed backyard jewel.

Table Comparing Different Small Above-Ground Pool Options

Pool Type	Shape Options	Size Range	Depth	Price Range
Simple ring pool	Circular	8′ – 24′ diameter	3′ – 4.5′	$1,000 – $3,000
Oval frame pool	Oval, circular	10′ x 16′ – 24′ x 44′	3′ – 6′	$2,000 – $6,000
Modular panel pool	Any shape	200 sq ft – 800 sq ft	3′ – 5′	$3,000 – $8,000
Integrated spa/pool combo	Any shape	150 sq ft – 500 sq ft	3′ – 6′	$5,000 – $15,000

This table compares some of the most popular above-ground pool options on the market today in terms of shape, size range, depth and general price range. This gives you an idea of the possibilities available for small backyard pools.

Conclusion

With thoughtful placement, attractive design features and some decorating tricks, even small above-ground pools can look like a gorgeous backyard oasis. Pay attention to details like the shape, color, edging treatment, lighting and accessories to make the pool blend right in. Combine this with lush landscaping and conscientious care, and your above-ground pool will be a backyard highlight you can enjoy for years to come rather than an eyesore.