Above-Ground Pool Removal Layout Ideas 2022

If you have recently had an above-ground pool removed from your yard or you are considering doing so, there are a lot of great ways you can repurpose the space left behind. Above-ground pool removal usually leaves you with a sunny and level spot that is suited to a range of applications. Here is a look at some layout ideas for making the most of this valuable yard space.

Patio

One of the easiest and most useful ways to repurpose an area that held an above-ground pool is creating a patio. This is also a project that can be easily adapted to suit your budget. If you have a large project budget, you can make a beautifully paved space appointed with elegant furniture, a high-end grill and built-in seating. While those on a more modest budget can create a simpler space on which to place patio furniture.

Many homeowners create a round patio layout that corresponds to the exact footprint of where the above-ground pool once was. A curved bench facing the most picturesque area of the yard can tie the look together perfectly.

An Outdoor Kitchen

Outdoor kitchens are becoming increasingly popular. Great for entertaining guests or simply encouraging your family to spend more time outdoors, an outdoor kitchen can also provide you with more cooking space.

This is a project that requires a bigger budget than simply planting grass on the space or growing a garden. However, it can improve your home’s resale value, so the investment may be worthwhile if you intend to sell in the future. You can take advantage of the exposed space after the above-ground pool removal to install any piping or lines that your appliances will need.

Many people choose a layout with one half of the previous pool area devoted to a large grill or cooktop, sometimes with a built-in fridge underneath, and the other half used for a bar where guests can sit and catch up with you while you cook.

Garden

Creating a garden in place of your above-ground pool is an affordable way to use the area productively. You could choose to create a flower garden there to attract butterflies and add an attractive focal point to your yard, or you could bring in some high-quality topsoil and grow a vegetable garden there. With grocery prices rising and the growing move toward organic produce, many people appreciate having control over the chemicals their fruits and vegetables are exposed to. Consider placing some pavers around the area and adding some garden sculptures for added visual interest.

Gardening boosts mental and physical health benefits, such as improving mood and self-esteem and providing some light exercise. Therefore, removing your pool may give you the opportunity to take up a great new hobby that improves your well-being.

Hardscaping and Container Plants

The level, firm ground left in your yard after removing an above-ground pool is the ideal space for an area of hardscaping. You can also add some container plants to the area to incorporate some greenery. If your above-ground pool was placed near a patio or another type of seating area, you can extend the hardscaping from this area to cover the pool site itself with the same materials. If this is not an option, you can hardscape it in a way that creates a complementary look.

Keep in mind that an above-ground pool will usually compact the ground it is placed on, leaving a small depression after it is removed. For an easy DIY project, you can simply place a layer of sand an inch or two deep in this space so it will be level with the surrounding area, and then top it with hardscaping materials such as flagstones, bricks and pavers. For example, if you want to use 2-inch-thick pavers in a 3-inch depression, lay a 1-inch layer of sand and then place your pavers. This is an easy, affordable and highly customizable zen garden!

Fire Pit

Fire pits have been growing in popularity in recent years. In addition to providing warmth on a chilly evening, they serve as the ideal gathering place for entertaining or spending time with family and loved ones. The circular shape of an above-ground pool area makes it ideal for a round fire pit with seating surrounding it. A fire pit is a great way to continue to enjoy your yard even when the weather is less than ideal. It may even increase your property’s value.

Children’s Play Area

There are several ways you can lay out a play area for children in the space that was occupied by your above-ground pool. You can begin by filling the entire space with sand. If your children enjoy playing with sand, you could even stop here and just turn it into a large sandbox for them.

However, most homeowners will want to go further and install some playground equipment. A swing set, slide or jungle gym is a great way to get lots of use out of the space and give them plenty of hours of outdoor enjoyment.

Sitting Area Surrounded By a Garden

Consider creating a round area of paving stones in the center of the pool area and then surrounding it with a planting area around the perimeter. Place some high-quality topsoil in the planting area and grow some beautiful flowers. Then, place a table and chairs in the middle and you will have an enjoyable space to pass the time, whether you’re reading a book, sipping some tea or coffee, or spending time with friends.

Dog Play Area

Another good idea for repurposing your yard after an above-ground pool removal is creating a dog play area. Fill the space with grass seed or even some artificial grass to keep the mess to a minimum, and then add a play tunnel or create a small obstacle course for your dog to enjoy.

Discuss Your Project With Dirt Connections

If you are seeking pool removal services or need post-removal yard grading and fill dirt services in the Northern Virginia area, the experts at Dirt Connections can help. Contact us today to discuss your project and learn more about our services.