ArdeleCourt Residence
“Imagine stepping into your own backyard oasis, complete with a sprawling sun shelf featuring playful bubblers, a cozy deep-end bench, and a serene…”
The Brief
The deep, inviting shade of Coastal Blue Mini Pebble plaster now gleams in the homeowner’s new custom pool in Apopka, Florida, a centerpiece feature chosen to create a serene water experience.
the homeowner wanted more than just a swimming pool for her Apopka home; she envisioned a complete backyard retreat. The existing space lacked the functional and aesthetic elements needed for relaxation and entertainment, posing the challenge of designing a pool that integrated specific features like a sun shelf, a raised spa, and durable, attractive finishes to meet her vision for a personalized outdoor space.
What kind of plaster did Grunit use for this pool?
Grunit Pool Contractors applied Mini Pebble plaster in Coastal Blue, providing a durable, smooth finish with a rich, inviting water color.
Can a sun shelf be added to any pool design?
Yes, sun shelves are a popular custom addition and can be integrated into most new pool designs, often including features like bubblers or umbrella holders.
What are the benefits of a raised spa?
A raised spa adds a distinct visual element to the pool area, often allowing for easier entry and exit, and can be heated separately from the main pool for year-round comfort.
How much does it cost to build a custom pool in Central Florida?
Most custom inground pools in Florida run $50,000–$110,000+, with complete gunite projects — design, decking, equipment, permits, and finishes — commonly landing in the $70,000–$100,000 range. Spas, water features, and outdoor living push totals higher. Grunit provides a free design consultation and a fast, no-obligation quote.
How long does it take to build a pool?
Typical construction runs 2–4 months — excavation, steel, gunite, tile, decking, and finish — with design and permitting adding several weeks before digging starts. Weather and inspection schedules can shift the timeline.
Can I finance a pool?
Yes. Most custom pools are financed — through pool-specific lenders, home-equity lines, or cash-out refinancing. Grunit offers financing options with approved-credit terms; see grunit.com/financing for current programs.
Do I need a permit to build a pool in Florida?
Yes. Florida requires building permits and safety-code compliance (including barrier/fencing requirements) for in-ground pools. Grunit handles permitting and inspections as part of every build.
What is the difference between gunite, fiberglass, and vinyl pools?
Gunite (concrete) pools are built on site in any shape and last the longest; fiberglass pools are pre-molded shells with faster installs but fixed shapes; vinyl-liner pools cost less up front but need liner replacement every 7–10 years. Grunit specializes in custom gunite construction.
What materials are used for pool decking?
Pool decks commonly use pavers, concrete, porcelain, or natural stone like travertine — chosen for slip resistance, heat comfort underfoot, and how they pair with the home’s architecture.
Can I customize the shape and features of my pool?
Yes — custom gunite pools allow unique shapes, sun shelves, integrated spas, water features, fire features, and lighting, all tailored to your yard. Grunit designs every project in 3D so you approve exactly what gets built.
Design Language
the homeowner wanted more than just a swimming pool for her Apopka home; she envisioned a complete backyard retreat. The existing space lacked the functional and aesthetic elements needed for relaxation and entertainment, posing the challenge of designing a pool that integrated specific features like a sun shelf, a raised spa, and durable, attractive finishes to meet her vision for a personalized outdoor space.
Built on Precision
The dimensioned site plan fixed the geometry before the first shovel — vessel, deck, setbacks, bonding, and code-required safety all resolved on paper first.
- Site Plan
- Custom Pool
- Deck Areas
- Setbacks
- Setbacks / Pool Equipment Location
- Safety Fence
- Hayward variable-speed pump
- Cartridge filter system
- Chlorinator + electrical sub-panel
- LED lighting
- Skimmer + code drain covers
The Build
A gunite pool is built, not delivered. Every stage of this build was documented in the field — the same sequence Grunit runs on every Central Florida pool.

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Oct 2025
Material Story
- Gunite Shell steel-reinforced concrete
- Waterline Tile 6″ porcelain band
- Quality Plaster bright, durable interior
- Deck & Coping cool, slip-resistant surfaces
Living Here
Six completed perspectives — 1 idealized property view paired with 5 clearly identified photoreal visualizations.
★★★★★ “Imagine stepping into your own backyard oasis, complete with a sprawling sun shelf featuring playful bubblers, a cozy deep-end bench, and a serene…”
After the First Swim
The finished project transformed the homeowner’s Apopka backyard into a sophisticated outdoor living area. The custom pool, with its inviting Coastal Blue Mini Pebble plaster, provides a striking focal point and a refreshing swimming experience. The large sun shelf is perfect for lounging in shallow water, while the heated raised spa offers a luxurious escape.
Ready to design yours?
Free design consultation — fast, no-obligation quotes.
Pool Design / Quote →Lifetime shell warranty · 10-year interior · 1-year equipment