When it comes to designing your own backyard swimming pool, gunite pools offer unparalleled creative freedom. Unlike their pre-fabricated counterparts, gunite pools can be fully customized to reflect your unique style, complement your property, and enhance your outdoor living experience. Whether you’re dreaming of a serene retreat or an entertainer’s paradise, here are ten custom features that can take your gunite pool design to the next level.

1. Tanning Ledge. Also known as a sun shelf or Baja shelf, a tanning ledge is a shallow, elevated platform typically installed near the pool’s entry point or along the perimeter. These ledges are usually submerged in about 5-12 inches of water, and are wide enough to accommodate lounge chairs, umbrellas, and even small tables—thereby creating the perfect space for lounging, playing, and relaxing.
2. Attached Spa. Integrating an attached spa into your pool design will create a seamless and luxurious look. Whether elevated with a spillover or incorporated flush with the pool, a spa adds year-round functionality and therapeutic value.
3. Waterfalls and Sheer Descents. Add movement and serenity to your pool area with custom water features. From natural rock waterfalls to sleek, modern sheer descents, these elements offer visual appeal and the calming sound of flowing water.
4. Swim-Up Bar. Bring the resort experience to your backyard with a swim-up bar. Consider adding features such as underwater barstools and a shaded pergola or cabana to create the ultimate entertaining space.
5. Fire Features. Fire bowls, fire pits, and fireplaces can add dramatic contrast to the water and create ambience after sunset. In addition to their striking appearance, these features can make your pool area usable and inviting well into the evening.
6. Infinity Edge. Ideal for sloped lots or scenic views, an infinity (or vanishing) edge creates the illusion that your pool stretches into the horizon. This high-end feature adds an instant wow-factor to any outdoor space.
7. Beach Entry. Sometimes called zero-entry pools, a beach entry mimics a natural shoreline and offers a gentle slope into the pool. It’s both family-friendly and visually stunning, particularly when combined with natural landscaping.
8. In-Pool Seating and Tables. Built-in benches, stools, or even a table can transform your pool into a social space. These features are perfect for pool parties or enjoying drinks and snacks without ever leaving the water.
9. Custom Lighting. Illuminate your pool with vibrant LED lighting that can change colors, create patterns, or enhance ambience. In addition to giving your pool a magical nighttime glow, lighting is essential for ensuring safety around the pool area after dark.
10. Automatic Pool Cover. While not as flashy as some of the other features on this list, automatic covers enhance the safety, energy efficiency, and convenience of your pool. They can help retain heat, reduce chemical use, and keep debris out of the water—all with the push of a button.

In addition to the long-lasting durability of gunite pools, one of their main advantages is the ability to customize every detail. With over 55 consecutive years of experience designing and building high-quality gunite pools, the team at Aqua Pool & Patio specializes in creating stunning one-of-a-kind pools tailored to our clients’ lifestyle and preferences.

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore the possibilities for your custom gunite pool!