Upgrade A Backyard With A Budget-Friendly Alternative To An In-Ground Swimming Pool

It's the same story every year. The sweltering heat of summer hits, and you decide it's finally time to turn that dream pool into a reality. But, by the time you're done laying the groundwork, the temperature turns negative and the whole idea seems ridiculous. Particularly in regions that enjoy both melting hot summers and bitter cold winters, installing a permanent in-ground swimming pool is just not a very practical choice.

More and more homeowners are choosing backyard plunge pools to split the difference: Have a place to cool off in the summer that doesn't require quite as much maintenance in the winter. But if you're looking for a budget-friendly alternative to an in-ground swimming pool, or backyard space is at a premium and you'd rather not dedicate square footage to permanent plunge pool, an above-ground pool like this Bestway Steel Pro MAX Above Ground Swimming Pool from Amazon could be the answer.

The Bestway above-ground pool sits at a positive 4.1-star review at the time of writing, and customers appreciate that it's easy to set up and budget-friendly at around $155 for the 12-foot by 30-inch option. But the standout feature of this particular model is the stacked stone print. This faux-stone look transforms the Bestway swimming pool from a fun but functional eyesore into a design element you can incorporate into a naturalistic backyard decor. Luckily, there are some simple (and not so simple!) hacks to elevate the aesthetics of a stone print above ground pool.

Once you've got your above ground pool set up, which shouldn't take too long according to reviewers, it's time to get in. Customers do note that you may need a way to to get in because it's not easy to just hop into the pool, especially for children. But don't settle for a chintzy metal and plastic ladder you'll find at pool supply stores. Instead, you should try to DIY or purchase a pool ladder, steps, or even a whole platform made of stained wood to complement the stone print of the Bestway above-ground pool.

Adding a stepping stone path leading to your pool will create a transition space that emphasizes the Bestway's stone print. You should choose pea gravel as a base for the walkway over regular, jagged gravel since there will be bare feet running around. Stick with natural, unpolished, and unsealed stone slabs: Sealed and polished stone surfaces tend to get slippery when wet. Even if it's just a few steps, a stone slab walkway can have a huge visual impact on your pool area.

If you have any pea gravel left over after finishing your walkway, spread it around your pool's perimeter. This will visually connect the pathway with the pool and smooth the visual transition between the pool and the ground. Adding a few potted plants along the perimeter will finish framing the bottom edge and further enhance the natural look.

Finally, if you want to go over the top, you can install a wood pergola decked with lights to really complete the visual framing of your stone print above ground swimming pool. Together with a wood stepup, stone slab walkway, pea gravel perimeter, and some potted plants, a pergola will add shade during the day and unify the entire scene. The best part about the Bestway above ground swimming pool is that during winter you can disassemble and store it and turn the completed area over to a relaxing fire pit for your outdoor space.