10 Gunite Pool Features That Improve Your Backyard

A simple guide to choosing the right features for your gunite pool

Designing a gunite pool can feel overwhelming. There are dozens of features to choose from, and not all of them will work for your space, budget, or style.

This guide breaks down 10 of the most popular pool features, what they actually do, and when they make sense. So you can build a pool you’ll love, not one you regret.

How to Choose the Right Pool Features

Before adding features, keep these three things in mind:

Space matters

Too many features in a small pool will feel crowded.

Style must match

A natural rock waterfall will look out of place in a modern geometric pool.

Climate affects durability

Some materials like glass tile may not hold up in freeze conditions.

Choose features that work together, not just ones that look good on their own.

LED Pool Lighting

LED lighting transforms your pool at night and highlights other features like water elements and landscaping.

Best for:

• Any pool style
• Night use and entertaining

Avoid if:

• Never use your pool after dark

Upgrade tip:

• Color-changing systems add flexibility but are optional

Deck Jets / Laminars

Deck jets shoot arcs of water into your pool. Laminars are a cleaner, glass-like version that can be lit at night.

Best for:

• Modern or symmetrical pool designs

Avoid if:

• You want a natural, organic look

Upgrade tip:

• Laminars cost more but look cleaner and work better with lighting

Raised Spa Spillways

A raised spa creates a visual focal point and allows water to spill into the pool for added movement and sound.

Best for:

• Adding visual height and interest

Avoid if:

• You want a minimalist design

Rim-Flow Spa (Infinity Spa Edge)

A rim-flow spa lets water spill evenly over all sides, creating a high-end, modern look.

Best for:

• Luxury or modern pool designs

Avoid if:

• Budget is limited

Rock Waterfalls

Rock waterfalls create a natural, resort-style atmosphere with both visual and sound appeal.

Best for:

• Tropical or natural landscapes

Avoid if:

• Your pool design is modern or geometric

Grotto Waterfalls

A grotto adds a cave-like space behind a waterfall for shade and privacy.

Best for:

• Families and playful designs

Avoid if:

• You want open sightlines or a modern look

Water Bowls

Decorative bowls add a simple water feature with sound and movement.

Best for:

• Clean, structured designs

Avoid if:

• You want a large focal feature

Fire Bowls

Fire bowls add contrast and drama, especially at night.

Best for:

• Entertaining spaces

Avoid if:

• Budget or maintenance is a concern

Scuppers and Spouts

Metal spouts create clean water streams from walls or raised features.

Best for:

• Modern or structured designs

Avoid if:

• You want a natural look

Glass Tile Finishes

Glass tile adds a high-end finish that reflects light and enhances color.

Best for:

• Modern, luxury pools

Avoid if:

• You live in freeze/thaw climates

High-End Features (Optional)

Some features like infinity edges or lazy rivers require larger budgets and specific site conditions. If you’re considering these, work closely with your designer to confirm feasibility early.

What Should You Choose?

The right pool features are the ones that fit your space, your style, and how you actually plan to use your pool.

If you’re not sure what makes sense for your backyard, start with a simple plan and add features intentionally. The goal is not more. It’s better.

Want help designing a pool that fits your space and budget? Talk to a designer and get a plan that works before you build.