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Integrated Spas

An attached spa can be incorporated directly into the pool design. It may be level with the pool, raised above it, or connected with a spillway.

Because the spa affects the shell, plumbing, equipment, and layout, it should be planned during the original design stage.

Tanning Ledges and Sun Shelves

A shallow tanning ledge provides a place for partially submerged lounge chairs, in-water relaxation, and easier access to the water.

The size, depth, shape, and placement of the ledge can be customized.

Built-In Steps and Benches

Steps and benches can be formed as part of the gunite shell. This provides more flexibility than selecting from a limited group of prefabricated components.

Waterfalls, Fountains, and Bubblers

Water features can introduce movement, sound, and visual interest to the pool. Options may include:

  • Waterfalls
  • Deck jets
  • Bubblers
  • Scuppers
  • Spillways
  • Fountains
  • Sheer descents

Water features should be selected during the design process so the plumbing, equipment, structure, and surrounding patio can be planned properly.

Vanishing and Negative Edges

Certain properties may be suitable for a vanishing-edge or negative-edge pool design.

These pools require additional structural, hydraulic, drainage, and site planning and are most effective on properties with the appropriate elevation and view.

Pool Lighting

Pool lighting improves visibility and changes the appearance of the pool after sunset.

Lighting can be positioned in the pool, spa, steps, water features, patio, walkways, walls, and surrounding landscape to create a coordinated nighttime environment.

Automatic Pool Covers

An automatic pool cover can provide convenience, reduce debris, limit evaporation, and add an additional layer of protection when correctly installed and used.

A recessed automatic-cover system should generally be considered during the original pool design because it can affect the pool shape, coping, cover housing, tracks, drainage, electrical work, and surrounding patio.

Saltwater Systems

A saltwater chlorine-generation system can automatically produce chlorine from salt added to the pool water.

Saltwater pools still require testing, balancing, cleaning, and routine equipment maintenance. They should not be described as chlorine-free or maintenance-free.

Pool Heating

A pool heater can extend the swimming season and help maintain a more comfortable water temperature.

The right heating system depends on the pool size, intended temperature, expected usage, available utilities, equipment location, and efficiency goals.

Smart Pool Controls

Pool automation can provide app-based control of selected equipment, including:

  • Pumps
  • Heaters
  • Lighting
  • Spas
  • Water features
  • Sanitization systems
  • Schedules

The exact functions available depend on the equipment and automation system selected for the project.

External Links: Pool Title Options

Choosing Your Gunite Pool Finish

The interior finish plays an important role in the overall appearance, texture, water color, and character of your pool. There are several finish options available, each offering a unique look and feel.

Plaster Finishes

Traditional plaster provides a smooth, classic pool interior and is available in a variety of colors to complement different backyard designs and architectural styles.

Quartz Finishes

Quartz finishes combine plaster with quartz aggregate to create a more durable surface that is available in a range of colors and textures.

Aggregate and Pebble Finishes

Aggregate and pebble finishes expose small stones within the pool surface, creating a textured appearance with added visual depth and a distinctive natural look.

Specialty Finishes

Additional specialty finishes may be available depending on the desired texture, color, design preferences, and project requirements.

Understanding Water Color

The final appearance of your pool water is influenced by more than the selected finish sample. Pool depth, sunlight, surrounding materials, landscaping, coping, tile, and even reflections from the sky all contribute to the finished water color.

Coordinating Your Pool Design

AMD Pool & Patios can help you compare interior finishes, tile selections, and coping materials to create a cohesive design that complements your home, patio, and outdoor living space.

Can Pool Features Be Added Later?

Some pool upgrades can be added after installation, while others are significantly easier to incorporate during the original design.

Features Best Planned From the Beginning

The following features affect the pool shell, plumbing, structure, or surrounding patio and should generally be included in the original design:

  • Integrated spas
  • Tanning ledges
  • Built-in benches
  • Beach-style entries
  • Vanishing edges
  • Structural waterfalls
  • Recessed automatic-cover systems
  • Major water features
  • Specialty pool shapes
  • Additional structural depth changes
Features That May Be Upgradeable Later

Depending on the existing pool, plumbing, electrical service, equipment, and design, it may be possible to add or upgrade:

  • Pool automation
  • Heaters
  • Sanitization systems
  • Pumps and filters
  • Certain lighting components
  • Equipment controls
  • Some water features

Planning your desired features from the beginning is usually more efficient and helps the pool, plumbing, equipment, and patio work together.

A Complete Pool and Patio Design

The area surrounding the pool is just as important as the pool itself.

A pool may look impressive on its own, but the backyard will not feel complete unless there is enough space for walking, seating, entertaining, accessing equipment, and moving safely around the water.

AMD Pool & Patios can coordinate the pool with the surrounding outdoor living environment.

Features Best Planned From the Beginning

The following features affect the pool shell, plumbing, structure, or surrounding patio and should generally be included in the original design:

Your project may include:

  • Pool patios
  • Paver patios
  • Natural stone
  • Concrete surfaces
  • Walkways
  • Retaining walls
  • Outdoor kitchens
  • Fire pits
  • Fireplaces
  • Seating walls
  • Landscape lighting
  • Steps
  • Drainage
  • Planting areas
  • Privacy features
  • Equipment screening

Planning these features together helps create a backyard that feels intentional rather than assembled one piece at a time.

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Features FAQs


Yes. An integrated spa can be constructed as part of a gunite pool.

The spa may be raised, level with the pool, connected with a spillway, or incorporated into another custom configuration. Because the spa affects the pool structure, plumbing, equipment, and controls, it should be included in the original design.

Yes. A tanning ledge or sun shelf can be incorporated directly into the gunite shell.

Its shape, size, depth, location, and access can be customized based on the pool design and how you plan to use it.

Yes. Automatic pool covers can be incorporated into many gunite pool designs.

The pool shape, coping, recessed cover housing, tracks, drainage, electrical requirements, and patio should be planned together. Discussing the cover during the design stage generally produces a cleaner and more integrated installation.

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