2. Semi-Inground Pool with Travertine Coping
Introduction
Burying an above-ground pool partially into the earth—often between 2 to 3 feet—creates a stunning semi-inground profile. Topping the exposed steel wall with luxurious tumbled travertine coping stones bridges the gap between structured design and natural elegance.
What This Idea Means
This design philosophy celebrates low-profile integration. By sinking the pool partially, you eliminate the towering wall effect while retaining structural ease of installation.
How to Make It
- Excavation: Excavate the center of your pool footprint to the specified partial depth, ensuring firm, undisturbed soil beneath the pool base ring.
- Pool Assembly: Assemble the above-ground pool structure inside the excavated pit, installing backfill drainage gravel around the exterior walls as you fill the pool with water.
- Building the Collar: Pour a reinforced concrete collar or retaining ring around the upper exposed perimeter rim of the pool wall.
- Laying Travertine Coping: Adhere tumbled ivory or walnut travertine coping tiles securely to the pool top ledge using exterior-grade masonry adhesive.
Tips and Variations
- Tip: Install a French drain system around the exterior perimeter of the excavated pit to prevent groundwater accumulation against the pool walls.
- Variation: Surround the semi-inground pool with poured concrete coping for a sleek minimalist architectural finish.
Needs to Make That Thing
- Excavation equipment (mini excavator or manual labor)
- Semi-inground capable steel-wall pool kit
- Tumbled travertine coping stones and masonry adhesive
- Drainage gravel and perforated pipe