One of the best ways to make a pool look better is to surround it with attractive landscaping. This can be done with a variety of plants, trees, and shrubs that will give the area a polished, professional look.
If you’re feeling particularly ambitious, you could even install stone pavers or cobblestone around the pool to give it a luxurious and finished look. If you’re looking for a lower impact upgrade, you could also add planter boxes, foliage containers, and even incorporate lighting features like hanging lanterns or string lights around the pool, to create peaceful and inviting ambience.
Ultimately, the things you choose to put around your pool should be based on the space you have to work with and the overall design you’re going for, so be sure to plan ahead and think through your ideas accordingly.
How do I decorate around my pool?
When decorating around your pool, there are several factors to consider. It’s important to think about the overall function of the pool area, such as entertaining, relaxing, or swimming, and how the decor should supplement these activities.
Creating an inviting atmosphere is key, so start by sprucing up the area with comfortable furniture. Make sure to choose items that won’t be damaged by water and can withstand the elements. In addition, you should consider pieces that are easy to move and store away when the pool isn’t being used.
If you plan on entertaining in the pool area, use décor accents to bring the space together. Consider adding a pergola to create a designated entertaining space. Also, you can use planters to create a tropical oasis by adding lush vegetation.
If you want to create a beachy atmosphere, add in a hammock or even some pool noodles.
In terms of lighting, you want to create a safe and inviting atmosphere. Use ground lights along pathways or water-resistant string lights to give the area a pleasant sparkling glow. Additionally, consider adding lanterns for a cozy touch.
You can also make use of a poolside barbeque or fire pit. This can be used as a central gathering point when people are enjoying the pool. You may also want to consider balancing the amount of sunny and shaded areas to make sure there are good areas to socialize and relax.
If the side of your pool is facing the sun, consider adding a parasol or covering for when it’s too hot.
Finally, dress up the pool area with fun accessories that reflect your personality. This could be colorful signs, beach towels, pool floats, or string art. This is a great way to liven up the atmosphere and create a unique space.
What can I put around the outside of my pool?
A popular option is to install a pool fence. This can be made of wood, metal, or vinyl and will serve as a physical barrier to keep children and pets away from the pool. Additionally, installing a pool alarm can help provide an extra layer of protection, by emitting an alarm if motion is detected in or around the pool.
You can also consider decorative landscaping such as shrubs, trees, and flowers to add color and texture to the area. If you plan to use lounge chairs and other seating around the pool, paving stones can be a good option for the pathways that lead from the patio to the pool.
Adding plants and trees can also provide some shade and help to refresh the air around the pool.
Finally, adding decorative lighting to the area can really help set the mood. LED lights are a popular option for creating a vibrant scene and can be used in various ways around the pool. This could include pool steps, to create a glowing effect when the sun goes down.
With a bit of creativity, you can definitely make your pool area look and feel like a true oasis.
How do you decorate a pool on a budget?
Decorating a pool on a budget can be an easy and fun task. Many creative and inexpensive ideas can help you create a great atmosphere around the pool. You may want to start with edging the pool with landscaping stones, plants, or even LED lights.
Additionally, adding lounge chairs or umbrellas around the pool is a great way to give it the perfect atmosphere. Adding strings of lights draped around trees or pathways near the pool can also provide a great option for budget friendly decoration.
Other customizable decor ideas include hanging decorative signs, blow up decorations, and even stringing fruit around the perimeter of the pool to create a colorful and inviting atmosphere. All of these ideas are relatively inexpensive, but they can really make a difference and enhance the ambiance of your pool area.
How do you arrange furniture around a pool?
When arranging furniture around a pool, it is best to consider both safety and aesthetics. In terms of safety, it is important to leave enough space for a safe swimming radius, and for people to be able to move around the pool easily.
If you intend to use the furniture for sunbathing, be sure to leave enough space for people to sit and lie down in comfort. Additionally, it’s important to think about how the furniture will interact with the pool itself, to avoids spots that may become wet.
In terms of aesthetics, you may want to consider the existing architecture and landscaping around the pool. If you have a large pool area, selecting appropriately-sized furniture that fits the space is important.
Additionally, the color of the furniture should balance the color of the pool and the surrounding area. For example, if the area is green and lush with plants, you might consider light-colored furniture such as white or natural wood.
You also may want to include a variety of seating options such as chairs, loungers, and benches depending on your intended use of the space. Additionally, you may want to consider how the flow of the furniture around the pool can be used to create different seating options and sections.
How do I decorate the outside of my above ground pool?
Decorating the outside of your above ground pool can be a great way to express your personality and make your pool more unique. One of the easiest ways to give your pool a creative edge is to use garden lights.
You can string them around the pool’s edge or hang them from posts around the perimeter of the pool for a festive effect. Use the color of your lights to create the desired atmosphere, like blue lights for a night-time beach feel.
You can also create a relaxation zone with comfortable lounge chairs and colorful pillows. Choose thick-cushioned loungers to help make your pool deck an inviting area, and use brightly-colored accent pillows to add a touch of pizzazz.
Add a few planters with bright flowers to help make the area feel even more inviting.
If you’re looking for a more permanent decoration, you can use outdoor décor pieces to make your pool area look more attractive. You can hang wind chimes that tinkle in the breeze or use a decorative wall sculpture to add dimension to the area.
For a relaxing afternoon, consider adding a hammock or a three-season outdoor gazebo to the outside of your pool.
Finally, you can add a bit of your own enthusiasm to the pool’s surrounding areas by hanging personal banners and flags. Whether you use simple bunting with heartfelt messages, light-weight banners, or larger item that reflect your favorite sports teams, these additions can easily spruce up your pool area.
How much does landscaping around a pool cost?
The cost of landscaping around a pool can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors, such as where you live, the size of the pool, desired materials, and complexity of the project. Generally, basic landscaping around a pool, such as installing sod, trees, or shrubs, laying mulch or gravel, and building a patio or deck can start at around $3,000 and may increase up to $10,000 or more, depending on the size and labor involved.
You may also want to include costs to hire a designer or architect to plan the project, which can range from $500 to $5,000, in addition to the cost of the materials. Other elements that can increase the overall cost of landscaping could include any retaining walls or patios, walkways, and hardscaping, such as fire pits, pergolas, and outdoor kitchen areas, which may require additional materials and labor and can cost anywhere from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars.
Ultimately, the cost of landscaping around a pool will depend on your location, the size of the project, and the materials and work involved.
Can you put pea gravel around a pool?
Yes, you can put pea gravel around a pool. Pea gravel makes a good option for pool surrounds because it is lightweight, cost-effective, and won’t hurt your feet if you walk on it barefoot. The small, round stones are often used as a ground cover in paths and walkways, as well as for garden beds.
When using pea gravel around a pool, it’s important to provide a solid base so the gravel won’t sink over time. This may require the use of a plastic liner, or a thick layer of sand, which will act as an anchor for the pea gravel.
Another important factor to consider is how easy it will be to keep the pea gravel clean around the pool. The gravel should be kept slightly raised above the pool level, at least six inches or more, to prevent leaves and debris from collecting in it and clogging the pump and filter.
Regular vacuuming of the pea gravel can help keep the area clean.
What is the coolest pool deck material?
The coolest pool deck material depends on many factors, such as budget, desired style, and location requirements. One of the most popular options is concrete. It’s durable, low-maintenance, and has the ability to be textured for a non-slip surface.
It also provides a great base for many design options, if you prefer a more ornate look. Composite materials are another quality choice, as they are engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy foot traffic.
Composite pool decks can also be available in different colors and wood grains for a custom look. Stone, such as travertine, granite, or slate, can also give a pool deck a classic, high-end look. Stone is known for its durability and resistance to cracking and fading, though it has the downside of being more expensive than other materials.
Cool decking is specially formulated to stay cool on hot days and is available in a variety of colors, making it a great option for those who want a stylish deck without worrying about temperatures. Regardless of the material you choose, all pool decks should be sealed regularly to minimize staining and damage from weather.
How do I beautify my pool area?
The first step in beautifying your pool area is to create an inviting atmosphere. This can start with small touches like adding comfortable seating, decorative toss pillows, and colorful outdoor rugs.
Adding a few potted plants like ferns and palms is also a great idea to add a bit of greenery and serenity to the area. If you have the space, using outdoor furniture such as outdoor sofas, chairs, and lounge chairs can also help to create a more inviting atmosphere.
Another great addition that is both practical and aesthetic is an outdoor shade structure or pergola. You can also explore options such as a fire pit to add a cozy element to the area while providing a great conversation spot.
Other simple ways to beautify the area include adding string lights or lanterns, hanging a decorative outdoor tapestry or art piece, and adding an outdoor wall fountain or water feature. If you have the space and budget to construct a fountain or water feature, it will add an inviting ambiance and bring a feeling of calm and relaxation.
If your pool area has fencing, this is also a great opportunity to add vertical plants and climbers on the fence to add extra color and life to the area.
Overall, beautifying and creating an inviting atmosphere in the pool area does not need to be a daunting task. With a few creative touches, your pool area will become a place of comfort and relaxation for you and your guests.
How much does it cost to landscape around an above ground pool?
The cost of landscaping around an above ground pool varies greatly, depending on the size of the pool, the materials desired, and the amount of work involved. Generally, the costs range from $2,000 to $10,000 on average, with some projects costing more.
Some factors that could increase the cost include the addition of hardscape such as pavers, patios or decks, purchase or installation of benches or chairs, additional plants or trees, or an expanded scope of work.
When deciding on the cost of a landscape project, the size of the pool should be taken into consideration. The larger the pool, the more area that needs to be landscaped, resulting in more materials and time, both of which add to the final cost.
Other elements to consider are the type and cost of materials desired; synthetic grass, concrete, stone, or bricks might all be used, depending on the desired result. Also, water features, lighting, or built-in fire pits can all drive up the cost as well.
In the end, the cost of landscaping around an above ground pool will depend on individual preferences and needs. Consulting a professional landscaping contractor is a good idea if you want an accurate estimate for your particular project.
How much should I spend on landscaping?
The amount you should spend on landscaping will depend on a variety of factors, such as the size of your yard, the type of look you are trying to achieve, what types of plants or features you plan to include, and whether you plan to do the work yourself or hire a landscaping professional.
When budgeting for landscaping, start by getting an idea of how much the specific items you want to include will cost. For example, if you plan on installing a new patio, look into the costs of materials and labor.
If you plan on planting trees and shrubs, factor in the cost of the plants and any soil amendments you may need.
It’s also important to keep in mind any ongoing maintenance costs to help keep your yard looking refreshed over the years, such as lawn mowing, fertilization, and edging. Consider how often the yard will need to be maintained, as well as any tools or supplies you may need.
Although it’s possible to do some landscaping projects on a budget, higher-end projects may require more money. Keep in mind what have you have available to spend, as well as any timelines you need to work with.
If you plan to do the work yourself, think about the amount of time you can dedicate to maintaining the yard.
Overall, your landscaping budget can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars depending on the size of your yard, the types of features you plan to include, and whether you plan to do the work yourself or hire a landscaping professional.
Is it okay to put mulch around a swimming pool?
Yes, it is okay to put mulch around a swimming pool. Doing so offers several benefits, including reducing weed growth, controlling moisture, helping to keep dirt and debris out of the pool, and adding a decorative touch to your pool area.
Depending on the type of mulch used, it can also help retain heat around the pool, providing a warmer swimming environment.
When choosing a type of mulch for around the swimming pool, it’s important to consider the amount of maintenance it will require and how it will look when wet. Light-colored mulch like shredded cypress, pine straw, and cedar wood chips are best to help keep the pool area looking nice, as they tend to hold their appearance better when wet.
Additionally, when laying mulch, be sure to keep it at least 6-12 inches away from the edge of the pool as this will prevent it from staining the pool and pool decking.
In short, mulch is an excellent way to improve the appearance and reduce maintenance around your swimming pool, so long as the type and placement are taken into consideration.
What plants should I plant around a pool?
The types of plants you should choose for around your pool will depend on your climate and personal preferences. Generally, you want to choose plants that are drought tolerant, since pools can be a bit drying for plants.
Consider the amount of sun the area gets, as well as the surrounding soil composition, so you can select plants that are adapted to the conditions. Some examples of plants that can withstand pool areas include jasmine, junipers, evergreen shrubs, creeping rosemary and creeping myoporum.
Be sure to stay away from poisonous plants, such as daffodils and castor Bean plants, as the pool can be a danger zone for children and pets. Additionally, look for plants that won’t drop excessive debris, such as oak and pine, as it’ll be a chore to keep the pool clean.
Finally, give the area visual cohesiveness, by installing a geometric arrangement of plants, like a border. To add some extra beauty and privacy, you can incorporate larger trees, such as royal palm, citrus, coconut and brassaia, which will also add much needed shade to the area.
