DIY Pool Area Decor Tricks That Actually Work

A pool doesn’t need to be brand new or professionally landscaped to look incredible. With some DIY know-how and a little creativity, you can refresh your pool area and give it the wow factor — all without a huge spend.

From simple styling updates to easy weekend projects, these DIY pool area decor tricks will help you turn your backyard into a more comfortable, stylish, and relaxing place to be.

Refresh Your Furniture with Paint or Stain

Old outdoor furniture can look brand new with a bit of paint or timber stain. If your loungers or side tables are faded, cracked or dull, give them a quick sand and apply:

Outdoor spray paint for metal
Decking oil or stain for timber
Chalk paint for a rustic look

Stick to neutral tones like white, charcoal, black, or warm wood to keep your colour palette cohesive. Matching furniture helps your pool area feel more put-together — even if it’s all second-hand.

Make a DIY Pool Towel Rack

Towels always end up on the ground or draped over fences. A homemade towel rack solves the mess and adds visual interest.

Ideas for DIY towel storage:

Hang metal hooks on a painted timber plank
Use a wooden ladder as a leaning towel stand
Mount old fence posts into the ground with pegs
Repurpose an old coat rack or hall stand

Add your family’s names, beach-themed decals or even colour-code the towels for fun and function.

Add Personality with DIY Planters

You don’t need expensive pots to add greenery. Use your creativity to repurpose common items into stylish poolside planters.

Try:

Painted tin buckets or drums
Crates lined with weed matting
Stacked cinder blocks
Vertical gardens using shoe organisers or hanging baskets

Group planters in threes or fives for maximum impact. Use hardy plants that suit pool areas like succulents, dwarf palms, or ornamental grasses.

Paint a Pool Feature Wall

If your pool area has a bland fence, shed wall or back boundary, transform it into a feature with paint.

Easy ideas include:

Bold colours like navy, olive green or terracotta
Geometric shapes using painter’s tape
Horizontal stripes for a coastal vibe
Simple mural (sun, waves, palm tree outlines)

A painted wall makes a great backdrop for selfies and gives your space a designer feel without much effort or cost.

Build a DIY Bench or Daybed

If you’re short on poolside seating, a simple timber bench or DIY daybed can be made with basic tools and materials.

You’ll need:

Timber sleepers or pallets
Sandpaper and decking oil
Outdoor foam or cushions
Bolts or brackets (optional)

This project can be done in a day and gives you extra seating, storage, or a place to sunbake. Add a shade umbrella and some throw cushions for the full effect.

Install Budget-Friendly Outdoor Lighting

Lighting changes everything. A few well-placed lights will extend your pool use into the evening and create a calm, resort-like atmosphere.

Try:

Solar fairy lights strung between poles or trees
Battery-operated lanterns
LED strip lights under steps or benches
Up-lights at the base of feature plants

Warm white lighting is best — it feels softer and more inviting. Many lighting options are affordable, solar-powered and easy to install.

Use Outdoor Rugs and Cushions to Soften the Space

Want to add colour or texture without permanent changes? Use outdoor rugs and cushions. They define zones, protect feet from hot tiles, and help bring your DIY theme to life.

Try this:

Lay a weather-resistant rug in your chill-out zone
Add oversized cushions or beanbags
Use a cheap laundry basket as a towel holder

Stick to colours that match your plant pots or umbrella for a cohesive look.

Upcycle Old Items into Poolside Accessories

Look around your home or garage — you might already have the perfect DIY materials.

Easy repurpose ideas:

Ice bucket = drinks tub
Timber crate = side table
Old drawer = planter box
Pallets = vertical herb garden
Tyre = ottoman or toy holder

Paint, sand, and waterproof these items as needed to give them new life outdoors.

Add Floating Decor for Instant Style

Floating candles, solar pool lights, and even inflatable drink holders add a fun and festive feel. They’re also great if you want decor that’s temporary or moveable.

You’ll find a variety of floating and pool-friendly accessories in our range of pool products. These small touches often make the biggest impact during evening events or pool parties.

Keep Your DIY Area Clean and Functional

No matter how stylish your setup is, a dirty pool or messy deck will take away from the look. Make sure you’ve got the right gear to:

Keep the water clean and balanced
Store items neatly
Protect your equipment

Explore our collection of pool products to find reliable tools, cleaning accessories and fun add-ons that support your DIY upgrades.

Conclusion

You don’t need to be a designer or spend big to make your pool area feel special. With a bit of paint, some second-hand finds, and a few creative ideas, you can completely transform your backyard into a space you’ll love using every day.

Want to keep your space clean and functional while showing off your hard work? Stock up on practical, affordable pool products to complement your DIY improvements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the easiest DIY decor upgrades for a pool area?

Painting furniture, hanging fairy lights, creating towel racks, and using planters are all quick wins. These projects don’t require power tools or experience and can be done in a single day for minimal cost.

Can I use indoor furniture outside by the pool?

Not long-term. Indoor furniture isn’t built to handle sun, rain or chlorine. However, you can waterproof timber pieces or use sealed paint to make them last longer. Outdoor furniture or sealed upcycled pieces are always a better option.

What can I use for a DIY pool towel rack?

You can repurpose items like ladders, coat racks, or timber posts with hooks. Wall-mounted towel rails, even simple pegboards, work well if you want something compact and practical.

How do I make cheap outdoor cushions or seating?

Use weatherproof fabric or repurpose outdoor lounge cushions. You can sew covers for old foam or use canvas drop sheets. Pallets with foam and waterproof cushion covers are an easy and affordable bench setup.

What plants look good in DIY planters by the pool?

Try succulents, dwarf palms, agaves, or hardy native grasses. These are low-maintenance and handle splash zones well. Use matching planters or create a rustic look with repurposed containers and buckets.

How can I create mood lighting around the pool?

Use solar fairy lights, up-lights on trees, or LED strips under seating. Warm lighting is ideal. Focus on paths, feature plants, and sitting areas — avoid too much direct glare on the water for a relaxed vibe.

Is it safe to DIY furniture for pool areas?

Yes, as long as you use outdoor-rated materials and finish them properly. Sand timber to avoid splinters, seal or paint exposed parts, and check stability if seating guests or placing near water.

How do I protect my DIY decor from the elements?

Use marine-grade varnish or exterior paint for timber. Store soft furnishings in waterproof boxes when not in use. Shade and drainage also help prolong the life of your DIY work.

Can I decorate with floating items in the pool?

Yes, as long as they are pool-safe. Use floating candles, solar lights, or inflatables. Avoid anything with loose parts that can clog filters. You’ll find great floating decor options in our [pool products](https://www.pumpandpoolpeople.com.au/) range.

Where can I get supplies to maintain my DIY pool setup?

We stock reliable tools and accessories to help you care for your pool and show off your DIY improvements. Check out our full range of [pool products](https://www.pumpandpoolpeople.com.au/) for all your pool care needs.