Dreaming of a beautiful backyard pool but working with a tight budget? Good news — you don’t need an in-ground setup to enjoy the luxury of poolside lounging. With smart planning and a little DIY spirit, an above ground pool with a deck off your house can deliver resort vibes without draining your wallet.
These 15 creative and affordable design ideas pair practicality with style, making the most of your backyard space and budget.
Table of Contents
- 1. Simple Wrap-Around Deck Design
- 2. Platform Deck with Stairs
- 3. Corner Deck with Lounging Area
- 4. Multi-Level Deck Connection
- 5. Partial Deck with Privacy Screen
- 6. Deck with Built-In Bench Seating
- 7. Compact Side Deck for Small Yards
- 8. L-Shaped Deck Configuration
- 9. Rustic Deck with Gravel Pathway
- 10. Floating Deck Look
- 11. Budget-Friendly Pallet Deck
- 12. Stained Deck with Garden Border
- 13. Deck with Pergola Extension
- 14. Curved Deck with Creative Entry
- 15. Concrete and Wood Combo Deck
1. Simple Wrap-Around Deck Design
A basic wooden deck that wraps around half or the entire pool for easy access and lounging.
Steps:
- Choose pressure-treated wood for durability.
- Build a platform starting from the backdoor or patio extending to the pool edge.
- Include a railing for safety.
Tips:
Use gravel or pavers underneath for drainage and weed prevention.
2. Platform Deck with Stairs
Build a raised platform off your home with a stairway leading directly to the pool.
Steps:
- Construct a deck level with your house exit.
- Add stairs down to the pool area.
- Incorporate built-in benches or planters for style.
Tips:
Pre-cut stair stringers make installation much faster and easier.
3. Corner Deck with Lounging Area
Maximize your space by attaching the deck at a corner of the house, perfect for lounging and storage.
Steps:
- Build a corner deck flush with your home’s back wall.
- Extend toward the pool and add a few steps.
- Decorate with chaise lounges or Adirondack chairs.
Tips:
Use outdoor rugs and pillows to enhance comfort affordably.
4. Multi-Level Deck Connection
Add dimension with a two-level deck that transitions from your home to the pool.
Steps:
- Build a small deck off the house level with your door.
- Add a second lower platform leading to the pool.
- Use railings or planters to separate levels.
Tips:
Multi-levels add appeal and function but require strong footings—don’t skip permits.
5. Partial Deck with Privacy Screen
Budget-friendly build with one-sided deck and a privacy screen to block neighbors.
Steps:
- Build a partial deck on one side of the pool, connected to your house.
- Add a wood slat or lattice privacy wall.
- Include planters for a soft finish.
Tips:
Grow climbing plants like clematis or ivy to cover screens beautifully.
6. Deck with Built-In Bench Seating
Add functionality with built-in seating around the deck, eliminating the need for outdoor furniture.
Steps:
- Frame your deck with 2x4s for simple bench structures.
- Secure bench planks directly to the frame.
- Paint or stain to match the rest of the deck.
Tips:
Use waterproof outdoor cushions for added comfort and color.
7. Compact Side Deck for Small Yards
A minimal deck that fits tight spaces between the house and the pool.
Steps:
- Build a small platform with just enough room for a couple of chairs.
- Attach directly to the side of your house and pool entrance.
- Add railings for safety.
Tips:
Light-colored wood makes small spaces feel larger.
8. L-Shaped Deck Configuration
An L-shaped design that hugs both your home and the pool, perfect for dining + swimming.
Steps:
- Build one leg along the house and the other toward the pool.
- Include stairs where needed for elevation changes.
- Add outdoor dining set or umbrella.
Tips:
Use outdoor string lights to enhance the shape and ambiance.
9. Rustic Deck with Gravel Pathway
Blend natural textures with a rustic wood deck and stone or gravel path to the pool.
Steps:
- Construct a rustic wood deck from reclaimed wood or cedar.
- Lay down gravel or stepping stones to the pool’s entrance.
- Accent with potted plants or lanterns.
Tips:
Use recycled materials for both savings and sustainability.
10. Floating Deck Look
Create the illusion of a floating deck attached to your house and pool.
Steps:
- Build a platform deck with hidden supports.
- Install low-profile stairs and minimalist railings.
- Match the house trim and pool exterior color.
Tips:
Keep lines clean and finishes uniform for the modern look.
11. Budget-Friendly Pallet Deck
Use reclaimed wood pallets for a super affordable and creative deck option.
Steps:
- Collect, sand, and seal wooden pallets.
- Lay them on a leveled surface with a base of gravel or pavers.
- Attach pallets together for stability.
Tips:
Use pallets from furniture stores or shipping centers—often free!
12. Stained Deck with Garden Border
A stained wood deck that flows into a flower bed or garden border.
Steps:
- Build a standard deck and stain it a bold or dark color.
- Add a flower bed border with mulch and annuals.
- Include solar garden lights.
Tips:
Dark stains hide dirt better and contrast nicely with greenery.
13. Deck with Pergola Extension
Add a pergola to your deck for extra style, shade, and function.
Steps:
- Build your main deck structure.
- Install a wood pergola overhead.
- Add curtains, string lights, or climbing plants.
Tips:
Use solar shades or curtain panels for sun protection and privacy.
14. Curved Deck with Creative Entry
Design your deck with a curved or semi-circle layout to soften the look and ease transitions.
Steps:
- Frame the outer edges in a curved pattern.
- Cut deck boards to match the curve.
- Add steps or an arched gate entry.
Tips:
Use flexible trim and curved rail sections for smooth lines.
15. Concrete and Wood Combo Deck
Pair a wood deck with concrete pavers or a slab for added texture and durability.
Steps:
- Pour a concrete slab or lay pavers as a base.
- Build a small attached wood platform deck.
- Decorate with rugs, pots, and a seating area.
Tips:
Concrete is long-lasting and pairs well with any style of deck stain.