Constructing a custom gunite pool is more than just digging a hole and filling it with water. It’s a carefully orchestrated process involving engineering, design, and craftsmanship.
Recently, we completed a beautiful custom pool with a sun shelf in Flagler Beach, which now features a luxurious finish, LED lighting, and travertine pavers.
Here’s a look into the process that brought this vision to life.
The Initial Stages: Planning and Excavation
The first step in building any pool is thorough planning. Before the dig begins, our team collaborates with homeowners to design a layout that fits their space, preferences, and budget. With a detailed blueprint in hand, we moved on to excavation.

In the initial image above, you can see our excavation work completed. We installed temporary framing to mark the area and ensure safety throughout the process. This stage involved:
- Marking the pool perimeter.
- Excavating the area to the precise depth required for a gunite pool.
- Setting up supports and safety barriers.
This groundwork is critical, as it sets the foundation for the structural integrity of the pool.
Shooting the Gunite Shell

With the site prepared, the next stage was to apply the gunite—a durable mixture of cement and sand that’s sprayed onto the pool’s structure. Unlike traditional concrete, gunite allows us to shape the pool precisely and create custom features, like the sun shelf in this Flagler Beach project.
The sun shelf is an excellent addition for shallow lounging and creates a seamless blend of aesthetics and functionality. Families love it because it’s a great spot to relax or allow kids to splash around safely.
Deck Grading and Sub Deck Preparation

After the gunite cured, we focused on preparing the area for decking. In the image above, you can see the grading process to get ready for the pool deck.
For this pool, we used travertine pavers over a solid concrete sub-deck. Travertine not only enhances the beauty of the pool area but also provides a durable and slip-resistant surface. Key steps during this phase included:
- Grading the soil around the pool to create a smooth, even base.
- Pouring a concrete sub-deck to ensure stability and longevity.
- Carefully laying each travertine paver for a seamless finish.
Adding Finishing Touches: LED Lighting, Saltwater Generator, and Lifetime Finish
Once the deck was in place, it was time to add the finishing touches that make this pool truly special. We installed LED lighting around the pool to create an inviting ambiance at night, enhancing both safety and aesthetics. The lights are energy-efficient and long-lasting, adding value to the pool’s design.
For the interior, we used a lifetime finish that guarantees a smooth surface while being highly resistant to wear. This finish enhances the water’s natural color, making it look pristine and inviting.
Additionally, we integrated a saltwater generator into the pool system. Saltwater pools are increasingly popular because they’re gentler on the skin and eyes than traditional chlorinated pools.
The saltwater generator continuously converts salt to chlorine, providing a natural and low-maintenance way to keep the pool clean.
The Final Reveal: A Backyard Oasis in Flagler Beach
The final images showcase the finished pool in all its glory. Surrounded by lush greenery, this custom gunite pool blends effortlessly with the landscape of Flagler Beach. The travertine deck, LED lighting, and sun shelf make it a luxurious retreat for relaxation and entertainment.




For us, this project was about more than just building a pool; it was about creating a space where memories will be made. We take pride in our work, and this Flagler Beach pool is a testament to our dedication to quality and detail.
Project Highlights
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Pool Finish | Lifetime interior finish |
Decking | Travertine pavers over concrete sub-deck |
Lighting | LED lighting for ambiance and safety |
Water System | Saltwater generator for easy maintenance |
Special Feature | Sun shelf for lounging and family-friendly space |
This custom pool is just one example of what we can create. If you’re dreaming of a backyard oasis like this, we’d love to make it a reality! Contact us today!
(386) 246-7212