How to Make an Overground Pool Look Underground

Excavate a hill so that you have a level base to install the pool and another pool-level platform at the top of the hill. This works especially well for making it appear in-ground if you create a patio at the upper level that naturally flows over to the pool area.

Install a deck to surround the pool on all sides; if you decided to install the pool against a hill, this only requires building a deck on three sides. You also need to extend the patio surface to the pool edge so there is no visible gap between the ground level and the above ground pool.

Cover the decking material with a common patio finish, such as stone or brick veneer, to match the patio floor. Cover wood surfaces with cement backer board and then apply your choice of veneer. If installed properly, the patio level and deck level should blend seamlessly, making the pool appear in-ground.

Plant mature shrubs and plants around the pool, using plants that grow to about the same height or slightly taller than your pool. If you can't afford to surround the pool with a deck, this option conceals the outside of the pool to give the illusion of an in-ground pool.