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A pool that sits partly in the ground can solve a lot of problems
Not every garden is flat, open and easy to dig. Some have slopes, some have awkward ground conditions and some simply suit a pool that rises a little above the lawn. For these homes, a fully sunken pool is not always the most natural fit.
That is where semi inground pools come in. As the name suggests, the pool is set partly into the ground, with the upper section standing above the surrounding level. The exposed part is usually finished with cladding, stone, render or timber so it looks like a deliberate, attractive feature.
In this guide we explain how a part-buried pool works, when it makes sense, the design options, the practical points to think about and how it compares with other approaches. We keep things simple so you can decide if it might suit your home.
What makes a pool semi inground
A semi inground pool is one where only part of the depth sits below ground. The rest rises above the garden level, often by somewhere around knee to waist height, although this varies with the design and the site.
The raised section is then wrapped in a finish that suits the garden. Popular choices include natural stone, rendered block, timber cladding and composite panels. The top edge often becomes a wide coping that doubles as a seat.
How it differs from other pool types
- A fully inground pool has its top edge level with, or just above, the surrounding ground
- An above ground pool sits entirely on the surface, usually as a freestanding unit
- A semi inground pool sits between the two, partly buried and partly raised
Our guide to inground swimming pools covers fully sunken options if you would like to compare the two.
Why people choose this approach
Choosing to raise part of the pool is usually a design decision rather than a compromise. It can make better use of the land, reduce the amount of excavation and create a striking feature in the garden. It can also add a useful sense of separation between the pool and the lawn.
For families with young children or pets, that visual boundary can help define the pool area as its own space. It makes it clear where the lawn ends and the pool begins, which many parents find reassuring, although it should never replace proper supervision and safety measures.
When semi inground pools make the most sense
Every garden is different, and a site survey is always the best way to know for sure. That said, there are some situations where a part-buried design is often worth considering.
Gardens with a slope
A sloping garden is one of the most common reasons to look at this style. Instead of digging deep into the high side and building up the low side, the pool can sit into the slope so that one side is fully buried and the other is exposed. This can look wonderful, with the raised face finished in stone or cladding and the pool appearing to float above the lower garden.
If your plot falls away noticeably, our guide to building a pool on a sloping garden looks at the wider options in more detail.
Difficult ground conditions
Some sites have a high water table, rock close to the surface, tree roots or services running underground. Digging less deeply can help in some of these cases. Your installer will need to assess the ground properly, as every situation is different and some conditions still need special measures.
Wanting a raised feature
Some homeowners simply like the look of a raised edge. A pool that rises a little above the terrace can feel more sculptural, and the wide coping gives a natural place to sit with your feet in the water.
Keeping disruption down
Less digging usually means less soil to remove from site. On gardens with limited access, this can be a practical advantage, although careful planning is still needed for delivery and installation.
Design ideas for semi inground pools
Because part of the pool is on show, the finish of the raised section becomes a big part of the look. This is where you can have real fun with the design.
Finishes for the raised walls
- Natural stone for a timeless, high end feel
- Smooth render in a colour that matches the house
- Timber or composite cladding for a warm, natural look
- Brick to tie in with a period property
- Porcelain or stone tiles for a crisp, contemporary finish
Using the edge as a seat
A wide coping on the raised edge is one of the best features of this style. It gives you somewhere to perch, chat and dangle your feet in the water. It can also make a lovely spot for a drink on a summer evening.
Tying it into the garden
Semi inground pools can be blended into the landscape with planting, steps and terraces. Low borders around the raised walls soften the look, while a paved terrace at the same level as the coping can make the pool feel part of a larger outdoor living space. Lighting set into the walls or the paving adds atmosphere after dark.
Matching the style of your home
With a period house, a raised edge in natural stone or reclaimed brick can make the pool feel as though it has always been part of the garden. With a modern home, crisp render, large format tiles or slim composite boards give a clean, architectural look. The key is to choose materials that echo the house, so the pool reads as part of the whole property rather than something added on later.
Water features and overflow edges
Some designs include a gentle water feature spilling from the raised wall, or a feature panel that catches the eye from the house. These details can add sound and movement to the garden. They do need thought at the design stage, so it is worth raising any ideas early.
Steps and access
Getting in and out is an important part of the design. Many pools have internal steps or benches, and the raised section may need a few external steps or a platform to reach the edge comfortably. Think about who will use the pool and how easy access needs to be.
Practical points to think about first
A part-buried pool needs the same careful planning as any other pool. Getting the practical side right early helps the project run smoothly and keeps the finished pool safe and comfortable to use.
Structure and support
The raised section of the pool must be properly supported, as water is very heavy and pushes outwards on the walls. This is specialist work that needs to be designed and carried out by experienced professionals. It is not something to attempt yourself. A good installer will explain how the pool will be supported and finished for your particular site.
Levels, drainage and the surrounding ground
Water needs somewhere to go when it rains. The ground around a part-buried pool should be shaped so that surface water drains away from the pool and does not collect against the walls. On a slope, this means thinking about the ground above the pool as well as below it. Getting levels and drainage right is a key part of any good installation.
Access for delivery and installation
A one-piece shell arrives by road and is usually lifted into place by crane. Your installer will look at access routes, crane positions and any overhead cables or trees. A semi inground design may need less excavation, but the delivery still needs careful planning.
Heat and insulation
The exposed part of the pool is in contact with the air rather than the ground, so it may lose heat a little differently. Insulated shells, well designed surrounds and a good cover can all help keep warmth in. Your installer can advise on the best combination for your pool.
Safety around the pool
A raised edge can make it a little harder for small children to fall in accidentally, but it should never be relied on as a safety barrier. Supervision, safety covers and suitable fencing or gates are still important. For more on this, see our guide to swimming pool safety.
Planning and building control
Many garden pools fall within permitted development, but rules can vary with the height of any raised structure, how close it is to boundaries, and if your home is listed or in a conservation area. It is always wise to check with your local council and, where relevant, building control before you commit. We can talk you through the points to raise.
How semi inground pools compare with other options
There is no single best way to install a pool. The right choice depends on your garden, your budget, your style and how you plan to use the pool.
Possible benefits
- Can suit a sloping garden without major earthworks
- May reduce the depth of excavation needed
- Creates a striking raised feature and built in seating
- Can help where ground conditions make deep digging harder
- Adds a sense of separation from lawns and play areas
Things to weigh up
- The raised walls need attractive, durable finishing
- Access and steps need a little more thought
- The look is more visible, so design choices matter more
- Planning considerations may differ from a fully sunken pool
A one-piece pool can often be installed in a semi inground position, which combines the quality of a factory made shell with the flexibility of a part-buried design. We can look at your site and explain what would work.
A quick way to decide
If your garden is flat, open and easy to dig, a fully sunken pool may be the simplest route. If you have a slope, tricky ground or simply love the idea of a raised edge, a part-buried pool is well worth exploring. Often the best answer comes from a site visit, where we can look at the levels and talk through what you want from the space.
Semi inground pools questions we get asked a lot
Can any pool be installed semi inground?
Not every pool is designed for it, so it is important to check with your installer. The shell, the surrounding structure and the finish all need to work together.
Is a semi inground pool cheaper than a fully sunken one?
It depends on the site. Less digging may help, but the raised walls need finishing, so costs vary. We will give you a tailored quote after a survey.
Does a semi inground pool need planning permission?
Many do not, but it depends on height, position and your property. Always check with your local council before you go ahead.
Will a raised pool be colder?
The exposed walls may lose heat a little differently. Good insulation, heating and a cover help keep the water comfortable.
Can I add a cover to a semi inground pool?
Yes, covers can usually be fitted. The type that suits best will depend on the shape and edge detail of your pool.
How high above the ground does the pool sit?
This varies with the garden and the design. It is often somewhere between knee and waist height, but your installer will advise on what suits your site.
Is one of our semi inground pools right for your garden?
A part-buried pool can turn a tricky plot into a real feature. It works with slopes, can ease some ground challenges and adds a lovely raised edge for sitting and relaxing. With the right finishes, it looks like it was always meant to be there.
If you are curious, you can explore our full range of pools to see the shapes and sizes available. Then talk to us about your garden. We will visit, look at the levels and ground, and give honest advice with a tailored quote.
Call us on 01483 323 676 or email hello@hilifepools.co.uk for a friendly, no-pressure chat, or get in touch online and we’ll come back to you.
