• Wood is a common choice to landscape the area around a pool.Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
  
  An in-ground swimming pool provides a form of outdoor recreation at a home. The space around the pool has much potential, from providing a spot for hosting barbecues to an area for a relaxing retreat among tropical plants and flowers. Use your personal tastes and style when designing the landscaping around your in-ground swimming pool.
  
  

Pool Pumps/Equipment

• Any in-ground swimming pool requires unsightly features like pool pumps and maintenance equipment. Use your landscaping to camouflage these objects. Planting high hedges or ornamental grasses around the pump or building a brick or stone wall that blends in with your pool both work well.
  
  

Water Features

• Add additional water features to your pool to play a role in the landscaping. If you plan to sit outside and enjoy the sound of running water, add a fountain next to or inside the pool. Waterfalls, birdbaths and frog ponds can also work as water features around a pool.
  
  

Blended Landscaping

• Aim to blend the landscaping around your in-ground pool with the area around your home. Use colors and textures that match the style found in other parts of your yard for continuity.
  
  

Pool Fencing

• A vital safety feature of any in-ground pool is a fence. Many areas require this landscaping element and have specific regulations. Check with your local government before installing any fencing. It's still possible to have an attractive and stylish fence that fits the requirements. Wrought iron adds a sophisticated element to the landscape where wood can add a rustic feel.
  
  

Landscaping Inspiration

• Look at pictures of different outdoor pools for landscape ideas that fit your style. The pictures do not necessarily have to be of home pools. You can draw inspiration from large resort pools or fancy hotels and incorporate these elements into your own pool landscaping.