Some backyards call for more than a standard swimming pool. Maybe the property has an unusual shape. Maybe the architecture deserves something more distinctive than a basic design. Or maybe the homeowners have spent years thinking about the exact pool they want, right down to the steps, seating areas, water depth, spa, lighting, and places where everyone will gather. This is where gunite pools really shine.
A gunite pool is built on-site using a reinforced steel framework and a pneumatically applied cement-and-sand mixture. Because the structure is formed specifically for the property, homeowners have considerable freedom over its shape, size, depth, features, and finishes.
For someone who sees a new inground pool as part of a larger backyard design, that flexibility can make gunite an appealing choice.
What Makes Gunite Pools So Customizable?
Prefabricated pool shells come in predetermined shapes and dimensions. Gunite construction takes a different approach.
A gunite swimming pool begins with a design created for the property. After excavation, steel reinforcement creates the framework of the pool. The concrete-based material is then applied to form the structure.
That construction method allows an experienced gunite pool builder to work with curves, angles, varying depths, built-in features, and dimensions that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with a preformed pool shell.
Want a long geometric swimming pool that mirrors the lines of a contemporary home? That can be part of the design conversation. Prefer softer curves that work around an established patio or landscaping? Gunite provides that flexibility, too.
Design a Gunite Pool Around Your Property
Of course, customization is not simply about creating an unusual pool shape. A good inground pool builder looks at the entire property. The location of the home, available yard space, grade changes, existing outdoor living areas, access points, landscaping, and views can all influence where a pool belongs and how it should be designed.
That can become particularly valuable on properties that are not simple blank rectangles.
A custom concrete pool can be designed to make better use of an unconventional space. It can follow architectural lines, create visual connections with a patio, or become part of a larger outdoor entertaining area. This is where working with an experienced inground pool contractor matters. A beautiful drawing still has to become a structurally sound pool that functions properly on the actual property.
Build the Features Into the Pool
One of the most exciting parts of custom gunite construction is deciding what happens inside the water.
Built-in benches can create places to sit and talk. Tanning ledges can provide shallow areas for relaxing. Steps can become prominent architectural elements rather than something squeezed into a corner.
Homeowners may also incorporate an attached spa directly into the design. Waterfalls, fountains, infinity or vanishing edges, custom lighting, and other water features can further change the character of the finished space. At Speck USA, we offer features such as built-in seating, tanning ledges, integrated spas, water features, LED lighting, and automation among the possibilities for gunite pool construction.
Think about how the pool will actually be used before choosing features. A family with young children may have very different priorities from homeowners who want space for swimming laps. Someone who frequently entertains may put more value on generous seating areas and an attached spa. Custom should mean useful, too.
Choose a Pool Shape That Fits Your Style
The shape of a gunite pool can set the tone for the entire backyard.
Straight lines and sharp angles can complement contemporary architecture. A classic rectangular pool works beautifully with many traditional homes and offers an orderly look that can also accommodate swimming and exercise.
Freeform designs take another direction. Curves can soften a large backyard or work around landscaping and other established features.
There is no requirement to choose one of those familiar categories, either. Because a gunite pool is constructed on-site, the design can be developed specifically around the space and homeowner’s preferences.
That freedom is one of the biggest reasons homeowners choose custom concrete construction.
Finish the Pool With Your Own Look
Shape is only the beginning. Gunite construction also provides considerable choice when it comes to the finished appearance of the pool. Tile, coping, decking, plaster color, texture, and surrounding materials all contribute to the final design.
We offer options that include glass and ceramic tile, natural stone, decorative mosaics, colored and textured plaster finishes, and custom coping and decking. These choices give homeowners an opportunity to connect the inground pool visually with the house and surrounding outdoor space.
Instead of treating the pool, patio, landscaping, and home as separate pieces, the design can establish a consistent look across the backyard.
Think Beyond the Pool Itself
A custom backyard works best when the planning extends beyond the water. Where will people sit after swimming? Is there enough room around the pool for entertaining? Where should furniture go? How will people move between the house, pool, and other outdoor areas? Where will shade be available in the afternoon? Planning these details early produces a backyard that works better once people actually start using it.
This is another reason to discuss the complete outdoor plan with your concrete pool builder before construction begins. Even features that will be added later can influence decisions made today.
Understand the Long-Term Care of a Concrete Pool
A concrete pool offers outstanding design flexibility and durability, but homeowners should also understand its long-term care requirements.
Pool surfaces require regular cleaning and proper water chemistry. While very enduring, over time a concrete pool will need repairs or resurfacing. That makes ongoing maintenance part of responsible ownership.
Years down the road, concrete pool renovation can also provide an opportunity to refresh an aging pool. Depending on its condition, renovation might involve resurfacing, replacing tile or coping, updating equipment, or changing parts of the surrounding pool area.
Find the Right Gunite Pool Builder for Your Backyard
Ask prospective gunite pool builders about their experience with concrete construction. Look at completed projects, particularly pools with features or design challenges similar to yours. Talk about the property itself and ask how the pool design will respond to its layout.
A capable inground pool builder should also be able to discuss what is realistic within the available space, construction requirements, project scope, and budget.
For homeowners in Central Iowa, Speck USA brings more than 50 years of concrete experience to custom gunite pool construction. We design and build gunite pools with options for custom shapes, integrated spas, tanning ledges, built-in seating, water features, lighting, tile, stone, plaster finishes, coping, and decking.
If you are ready to create a new inground pool that feels like a natural fit in your backyard, get in touch with us.
