Gunite (Concrete) Pools
Custom gunite pools designed and built for Lexington & Central Kentucky homes, by one local team.
Concrete-Gunite PoolsThe H2O Designs DifferenceAt H2O Designs, we focus on more than just the pool—we design an outdoor living experience.See the details 
Concrete-Gunite PoolsWhen to Contact Geddes Pools DirectlyIf your goal is to install a pool with a simple concrete patio and no additional design elements, we recommend reaching out to Geddes Pools…See the details 
One teamdesign to buildCustom Gunite to meet your families lifestyle
A custom Gunite pool is more than just a place to swim; it’s an investment in your lifestyle, home value, and family enjoyment. At H2O Designs, we specialize in creating luxurious outdoor living spaces, including stunning custom Gunite pools designed to elevate your backyard into a personal oasis. Partnering with Geddes Pools, a trusted name in pool installation, we ensure that your dream pool is both beautifully designed and expertly constructed.
Everything You Should Know About Concrete-Gunite Pools
The details we walk through with homeowners at every consultation, so you can make the right choice for your yard.
01The H2O Designs Difference
At H2O Designs, we focus on more than just the pool—we design an outdoor living experience. Our team begins by understanding how your family will interact with the pool and how it will integrate into your overall backyard design. From expansive patios and seating areas to outdoor kitchens and landscaping, we create cohesive spaces that blend function and beauty.
By collaborating with Geddes Pools for the professional installation of your Gunite pool, we bring together the best in pool craftsmanship and outdoor design expertise. Geddes Pools handles the construction and technical aspects, ensuring a high-quality pool that meets your specifications, while we ensure the surrounding environment enhances and complements your new addition.
02When to Contact Geddes Pools Directly
If your goal is to install a pool with a simple concrete patio and no additional design elements, we recommend reaching out to Geddes Pools directly. Their team can provide you with a straightforward pool installation process. At H2O Designs, our focus is on creating an entire backyard transformation, incorporating custom pool designs into a holistic outdoor living space.
Planning Your Gunite Pool: What We Look At
A pool is a big investment. Here is what we plan before anything gets dug.
Pool type & size
Gunite, fiberglass, vinyl or semi-inground, plus shape and depth. We help you weigh cost, timeline and upkeep for each.
Site & access
Slope, soil, utilities and room for equipment to get into the yard all affect the plan and the price.
The space around it
Decking, shade, seating, an outdoor kitchen or fire feature and a pool house turn a pool into a backyard retreat.
Safety & rules
Fencing, gates and local permit requirements are part of the design from the start.
From first visit to finished gunite pool
- 1Consultation
We walk your yard and talk about how you want to swim, relax and entertain.
- 2Whole-yard design
We design the pool and everything around it: decking, shade, fire, kitchen and landscaping.
- 3Pool & build
Trusted pool partners install the pool while our crew builds the outdoor living around it.
- 4Dive in
Enjoy a finished backyard, not just a hole with water in it.
Testimonials
What Our Clients Say
Jeff converted my old pond to a pondless waterfall. It is gorgeous and I love the sound. The H2O crew was efficient and neat. If you want to add a water feature to your yard give Jeff a call.
Wide selection, friendly staff, well priced! Very happy with our new koi fish and recent service in Richmond to our pond! Will definitely be back! Thanks H2O Designs!
In middle of project with Jeff and his team. Greta design work and able to see out vision. They are dedicated to working all day to get project finished on time. Attention to detail is remarkable. Job site is cleaned up daily. So impressed with everything..great experience!
Caring for Your Gunite Pool in Central Kentucky
Every pool needs regular care, and the area around it does too.
- Water
- Test and balance the water regularly through the swim season.
- Equipment
- Clean filters and check pumps and heaters as the manufacturer recommends.
- Decking
- Sweep and rinse the pool deck, and top up paver joint sand as needed.
- Opening & closing
- Plan a spring opening and fall closing each year.
Recent gunite pools around Central Kentucky
Pairs perfectly with your gunite pool
From the H2O blog
Helpful articles & answers
Straight answers from our team about ponds, outdoor living and more.
Gunite Pool Questions, Answered
Every tile is a real H2O Designs project. Tap one to read the answer.
A gunite pool uses concrete pneumatically sprayed over a steel rebar frame, offering unmatched durability and design freedom. This method is premium because it allows for any shape, depth, or feature imaginable, making it ideal for complex, integrated designs.
The unlimited customization of gunite allows for freeform, non-geometric shapes, deep ends, and complex, structural elements. Features like integrated infinity edges, multi-tier diving rocks, and structural grottoes are only possible with a gunite shell.
We use a robust steel framework and ensure the gunite is properly mixed and applied to create a dense, structural shell. We follow strict curing and construction protocols to maximize strength and resilience against the local freeze-thaw cycles.
Yes. Gunite is the only construction method that allows for true structural integration of complex elements. We seamlessly incorporate custom-raised spas, tanning ledges, built-in benches, and negative (infinity) edges directly into the pool shell.
The interior can be finished with traditional plaster, a durable aggregate, or custom tile. These finishes offer varying textures and durability, and your choice of finish heavily impacts the pool's final water color and overall aesthetic.
The gunite process is multi-staged and much longer, typically taking three to six months due to mandatory curing times. It involves excavation, rebar framing, gunite application, multiple curing periods, and the final interior finish.
Yes. As outdoor living specialists, we manage the full design-build. This includes the pool, custom paver patios, natural stone decking, and all integrated features, ensuring a cohesive and structurally sound environment.
Gunite pools have a higher initial cost and require periodic resurfacing (replastering) every 10–15 years. Their porous surface requires more diligent brushing and chemical balancing than the smooth surface of a vinyl-liner pool.
Why Choose a Custom Gunite Pool?
Gunite pools are known for their durability, design flexibility, and premium look. Unlike traditional pools, Gunite pools are created using a mixture of concrete and sand sprayed over a steel frame, allowing for virtually unlimited design options. This makes them an ideal choice for homeowners who want a pool tailored to their unique vision and backyard layout.
Key Benefits of Installing a Gunite Pool:
Design Flexibility: Whether you dream of a sleek, modern pool or a natural, lagoon-style retreat, Gunite pools can be shaped and finished to match your vision.
Durability: Gunite pools are built to last, standing up to the test of time and resisting wear and tear from frequent use.
Custom Features: Add waterfalls, tanning ledges, integrated spas, or unique lighting to create a pool that’s as functional as it is beautiful.
Increased Home Value: A professionally designed Gunite pool enhances your property’s appeal and market value.
Get Started on Your Dream Backyard
Ready to transform your backyard into a luxurious retreat? H2O Designs is here to guide you through every step of the process, from initial concepts to the final reveal. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can bring your vision to life with a custom Gunite pool and outdoor living space.
Whole-yard design
We design the pool area as one space, from the decking and patio to shade, fire and landscaping.
Trusted pool partners
We work with established pool installers so each pool type is built by specialists.
Hardscape experts
ICPI certified paver installers for pool decks, patios and walkways.
One local team
One point of contact from design through the finished backyard.
Let's Plan Your Gunite Pool Together
Sit down with our design team, at your home or at our store, to talk through ideas, materials and budget. No pressure, just a plan you can feel good about.
- We walk your space and listen first
- Material and layout ideas for your yard
- Clear next steps and financing options
Nicholasville, KYSee gunite pool ideas in person
Our store and design center has full-size outdoor living displays, plus the largest selection of pond and water garden supplies in Central Kentucky. Come touch the materials, get ideas and talk with our team.
Concrete-Gunite Pools Across Central Kentucky
From our home base in Nicholasville, we design and build gunite pools for homeowners throughout Lexington and the surrounding Central Kentucky communities, including:
- Lexington
- Nicholasville
- Georgetown
- Versailles
- Richmond
- Danville
- Somerset
- Surrounding areas
Don't see your town? Give us a call at (859) 305-7049. If you're in Central Kentucky, there's a good chance we serve your area.