Top Gunite Pool Designs and Must-Have Custom Features

No two backyards are the same—and that’s exactly why gunite pools are so popular. Their flexibility lets you choose from a wide range of gunite pool designs, whether you want something sleek and modern or more natural with curves, rock features, and built-in seating.

You’re not limited to standard shapes or sizes. With gunite, you can customize the layout, depth, and features to fit your space and how you plan to use it.

At Ferrari Pools: Custom Outdoor Living, we’ve been designing and building custom gunite pools for decades. In this blog, we’ll walk through design options, must-have features, and tips to help you plan a pool that works for your yard and your lifestyle.

Key Takeaways

• Gunite pools give you the flexibility to design a backyard that matches your lifestyle, from sleek rectangular pools to relaxed freeform designs.

• Thoughtful features like spas, waterfalls, fire bowls, and lighting turn a pool into a personal retreat that works day and night.

• With the right planning and care, a gunite pool is a durable investment that adds long-lasting beauty and function to your property.

What Is a Gunite Pool and Why Homeowners Love It

When it comes to building a custom pool that fits your exact needs, gunite is one of the most trusted materials out there. It’s a mix of cement, sand, and water, sprayed through a high-pressure hose onto a steel rebar frame. This creates a solid, seamless shell with serious strength.

Unlike poured concrete, which requires forms and can leave visible seams, gunite is shaped right on-site. It cures into one continuous surface, which helps reduce cracking over time. That’s a big win when you’re dealing with temperature shifts, heavy use, or changing ground conditions.

You may hear people mention shotcrete—a similar material that's pre-mixed with water before it's applied. The main difference? Gunite is mixed dry and combined with water at the nozzle, giving the crew more control during application. For custom shapes, curves, and one-of-a-kind designs, gunite is the better choice.

It’s no surprise that gunite pools are found at high-end resorts, hotels, and custom homes. The flexibility in shape, the long-term durability, and the clean, crafted finish make it a smart investment that holds up year after year.

Pool Shapes That Fit Your Yard and Lifestyle

Your backyard and your lifestyle should guide your pool’s shape, not the other way around. With gunite, you're not limited to off-the-shelf templates. Here's a look at popular pool design options that can be tailored to match how you plan to use your space:

Rectangular pools

A rectangular pool is classic for a reason. It has a crisp, modern look and works well for lap swimming, hosting, or simply keeping things symmetrical. It’s also easy to pair with features like lighting, steps, or a spa.

Freeform pools

If you like a more relaxed, natural feel, freeform pools might be the right pick. These pools mimic natural bodies of water with soft curves that blend into landscaping. They’re ideal for adding rock walls, waterfalls, and surrounding greenery that soften the whole space.

Kidney & figure-8

Great for smaller yards, these shapes offer smooth flow and built-in functionality. You’ll still have room for benches, tanning ledges, or shallow areas without feeling cramped.

L-shaped and Roman end pools

These designs naturally create different zones in the pool. One section might be better for swimming, another for relaxing on a sun shelf or near a spa. Roman ends add a little classic style without taking over the layout.

Custom designs

Every property is different. Sloped land, tight corners, or a bold idea don’t have to be a roadblock. Pools can be designed to fit into all sorts of unique spaces, and with 3D tools, it’s possible to see how the finished design will look before construction begins. 

No matter the size of the yard or the style of the home, there’s a gunite pool design that can be crafted to match it perfectly.

Custom Features That Make a Gunite Pool Truly Yours

A pool should do more than hold water—it should fit how you relax, host, and enjoy time outside. These features aren’t just add-ons. They’re part of what makes your pool design feel personal and truly finished.

Tanning ledges

These shallow areas are perfect for stretching out in the sun or letting little ones splash safely. Add a few bubblers, and you’ve got gentle movement and a spa-like touch.

Built-in spas

An integrated spa brings warmth, relaxation, and year-round use. You can keep it level with the pool or raise it up with a spillway for visual impact and sound.

Waterfalls & grottos

Want that wow factor? A stone waterfall adds motion and a natural feel, while a grotto creates a shaded retreat under a rock feature. Both add sound, privacy, and a sense of place.

LED lighting

Swap out basic pool lights for color-changing LED lighting. It sets the mood, adds visibility, and gives your backyard a completely different feel after dark.

Swim-up bars & poolside seating

Entertaining gets a major upgrade with built-in benches and stools. A swim-up bar means no one has to leave the water when snacks or drinks are ready.

Deck jets & laminars

These arching streams add energy and movement to the water. Laminars create smooth, glass-like arcs that look especially dramatic when lit with LEDs.

Fire bowls

Bring in warmth and sophistication with custom fire bowls around the pool or spa. The contrast between flame and water adds visual interest and extends your pool’s use into cooler evenings.

Spillways & Rimflow Spas

These modern touches add a high-end, contemporary look. A rimflow spa has water that gently spills over all sides, like an overflowing champagne glass.

When these features are chosen thoughtfully, they work together to create a space that’s beautiful, functional, and built for how you live.

Surface Finishes and Tile Options

Your pool finish is where texture, color, and personal style come together. It also plays a big role in how your pool looks and feels.

Plaster

A classic choice with a wide variety of colors to match your vision. It’s smooth and budget-friendly, making it a solid starting point.

Pebble finishes

For added durability and texture, pebbled finishes offer a natural look that works well with freeform pools and lagoon-style designs.

Glass tile

Looking for sophistication? Glass tile catches the light beautifully and works well for waterlines, steps, or even full spa walls.

Mixed materials

Combine tile, plaster, and stone finishes for a pool that’s uniquely yours and ties together all your favorite design elements.

Planning Tips for a Gunite Pool That Fits Seamlessly

Smart planning helps a pool feel like it was designed for the yard instead of being added as an afterthought. A few decisions early on can shape how well it works for years to come.

Think function first

Decide what matters most. A pool used for laps will need length, while one meant for lounging benefits from tanning ledges and shallow areas. If entertaining is the focus, extra seating, a spa, or a built-in bar may be the better choice.

Maximize Flow

Look at how the pool connects with patios, the deck, or outdoor kitchens. A layout that allows people to move easily between zones creates a smoother experience and makes the backyard more inviting.

Zone the backyard

Dividing the space into clear sections for swimming, dining, and relaxation keeps activities organized. Even in smaller yards, zoning creates balance and helps the space feel larger.

Use design tools

3D previews make it easier to picture the finished pool design, from the shape and size to added features like waterfalls or lighting. They also come in handy when handling permits or neighborhood requirements.

The Construction Process: What to Expect

Building a gunite pool is a multi-stage process, and each step plays a role in creating a structure that’s durable and long-lasting. Here’s how it comes together:

1. Permits & planning

Before work begins, the required permits are secured and the design is finalized. This step makes sure the pool meets building codes and fits properly within the property.

2. Excavation

The site is marked out, and the ground is dug to match the planned shape and size. Soil type and access can affect how long this stage takes.

3. Rebar framework

A grid of steel rebar is installed throughout the excavation. This acts as the skeleton of the pool and provides strength for the structure.

4. Gunite spraying

The gunite mixture is sprayed onto the rebar with high pressure, then sculpted into the final design. This is what gives the pool its shape and durability.

5. Curing

The gunite shell needs time to cure. For about 28 days, the surface is kept moist to prevent cracks and to build long-term strength.

6. Plumbing & electrical

Underground lines for filters, lighting, bubblers, and other features are installed and tested. This step prepares the pool for full functionality.

7. Finish & tile

The chosen finish—plaster, pebble, or tile—is applied to define the look and feel of the pool. Waterline tile and decorative details are also completed at this stage.

8. Fill & startup

Once construction is complete, the pool is filled, the water is chemically balanced, and all systems are tested. With everything in place, the pool is ready for use.

How to Maintain a Gunite Pool Without the Stress

Keeping a gunite pool in good shape doesn’t need to be overwhelming. A consistent routine helps protect the finish, equipment, and overall beauty of the pool. Here are a few basics:

• Brush the walls and steps weekly. Gunite surfaces are porous, which makes them more prone to algae buildup. A quick brushing keeps growth from taking hold, especially in shaded spots or low-circulation areas.

• Test and balance your water regularly. Proper water chemistry protects both swimmers and the pool itself. Balanced water prevents stains, scaling, and damage to pumps and filters.

• Vacuum the floor. Leaves, sand, and other debris can settle on the bottom. Using a robotic or manual vacuum keeps the pool clear and reduces strain on the filter system.

• Plan for resurfacing every 10–15 years. Over time, the finish may fade or feel rougher underfoot. Resurfacing gives the pool a fresh look and adds years of life to the structure.

• Winterize before cold weather. Draining lines, lowering the water level, and securing a cover help protect against freeze damage. A good winterization routine saves time and money when it’s time to open the pool again.

A little weekly care combined with seasonal upkeep keeps a gunite pool looking great and running smoothly for decades.

Bring Your Dream Pool to Life

At Ferrari Pools: Custom Outdoor Living, every gunite pool is built for strength, style, and lasting beauty. With over 50 years of experience, we’ve designed everything from classic rectangular pools to modern pools with spas, waterfalls, fire bowls, and custom water features that enhance the backyard.

Our designs are uniquely matched to each property. Some focus on clean, contemporary lines, while others use curves, stone finishes, and benches for all-day relaxation in the sun. We also create hot tubs, swim spas, hardscapes, and renovations that bring older pools in line with the latest trends.

From planning and construction to seasonal care, our licensed team delivers award-winning craftsmanship. Ready for your dream pool? Call Ferrari Pools: Custom Outdoor Living today and make your backyard a place you’ll love.

Conclusion

With so many gunite pool designs to choose from, your backyard doesn’t have to be ordinary. It can be a place where form meets function—where you relax, host, play, and unwind all in one beautifully crafted space.

Add a spa, include dramatic lighting, install fire bowls, or build a curved waterfall into natural stone. However you picture it, we can help you design a pool that fits your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a gunite pool?

A gunite pool is made by spraying a mix of cement, sand, and water over a steel rebar frame. It cures into a seamless, durable shell that can be shaped into almost any design, from a crisp rectangular pool to a freeform style with curves and features.

What are the disadvantages of a gunite pool?

The main downside is cost. A gunite pool is pricier to build than vinyl or fiberglass, and the process takes longer because the shell needs time to cure. 

Maintenance is another factor. Gunite’s porous surface requires brushing, balanced water chemistry, and resurfacing about every 10–15 years.

Is a gunite pool better than concrete?

Yes. Gunite is technically a form of concrete, but instead of being poured, it’s sprayed to create a seamless surface with fewer weak points. This makes it stronger, less likely to crack, and easier to shape into custom designs with steps, tanning ledges, or water features.