Infinity Edges, Sun Shelves, and Perimeter Overflows, Defining Modern Pool Luxury

The Features That Separate an Ordinary Pool From an Architectural Statement

Some pool features are purely functional, and some are designed to make a lasting visual impression. Infinity edges, deep sun shelves, and perimeter overflow systems fall firmly into the second category, and they share one important requirement, they can only be engineered correctly using gunite construction. At Arista Pool and Spa, these architectural features are among the most requested elements in our custom design process, and for good reason.

Zero Edge and Perimeter Overflow Pools

A zero edge, or infinity edge, pool creates the illusion that the water extends endlessly into the horizon, with water spilling continuously over one edge into a hidden catch basin below.

Why Gunite Makes This Possible

Because gunite is formed on site rather than manufactured as a rigid shell, our team can engineer the precise elevation changes, hidden catch basins, and recirculation systems required to make a vanishing edge function flawlessly. A fiberglass shell simply cannot be custom formed to achieve this level of architectural precision.

Perimeter Overflow for a Full Vanishing Effect

Taking the concept further, a perimeter overflow pool allows water to spill over the edge on all sides, creating a fully vanishing look that appears to blend seamlessly into a surrounding patio or deck.

Deep Sun Shelves With Built In Lounge Seating

A sun shelf, sometimes called a Baja shelf, is a shallow, gently sloped area near the pool’s entry that allows homeowners to place lounge chairs directly in a few inches of water.

Built In Loungers

Rather than dragging furniture in and out of the pool, a custom gunite sun shelf can include built in lounge bases poured directly into the shelf, creating a permanent, resort style lounging area.

Integrated Umbrella Sleeves

Many homeowners choose to add umbrella sleeves directly into the sun shelf structure, allowing for shade exactly where it is needed without a freestanding umbrella base taking up space.

Integrated Spillover Spas

An attached spa with a spillover edge allows heated water to cascade directly into the main pool, combining the relaxation of a hot tub with the visual and audible appeal of a small waterfall feature. Because the spa and pool are built together as one gunite structure, the transition between the two feels completely seamless.

Tailoring Every Angle to Your Home

No two properties are the same, which is why we design every infinity edge, sun shelf, and spillover feature to complement the specific architecture, sightlines, and layout of your home. A feature that looks stunning on one property might need to be reimagined entirely on another, and that level of custom engineering is only possible with gunite construction.

Durability Behind the Design

An architectural feature is only as good as the structure supporting it, and features like infinity edges and spillover spas place additional engineering demands on a pool shell. The steel reinforcement and concrete density required to support a vanishing edge catch basin or a raised spillover spa wall must be calculated with precision, which is one more reason these features are built almost exclusively with gunite rather than a fiberglass or vinyl liner system.

Bring These Features to Your Backyard

If an infinity edge, custom sun shelf, or spillover spa is part of your vision, our design team can help bring it to life with a fully custom gunite pool built to last. We offer free estimates on every project, and we invite you to visit our state of the art showroom to see design examples and finish options in person. Contact Arista Pool and Spa today to schedule your consultation.