A custom freeform pool with integrated spa, sun shelf, water features, and travertine decking: transforming a Bradenton backyard into a private resort.
Freeform pool with integrated spa, sun shelf, and tropical landscaping in Bradenton, FL
Construction phase: gunite shell with spa and sun shelf taking shape
Completed pool with integrated spa, travertine decking, and LED lighting
Water features and tropical landscaping complete the backyard transformation
This Bradenton homeowner wanted a pool that felt like a natural extension of their tropical landscaping: not a rectangular box, but an organic, flowing shape that invited relaxation. The result is a custom freeform pool with an integrated spa, a generous sun shelf with two bubblers, and a cascading water feature that creates a soothing ambiance.
The pool is finished with PebbleTec Pebble Sheen in a blue-green tone that complements the tropical surroundings. Travertine decking surrounds the pool and spa, providing a cool, slip-resistant surface that stays comfortable in the Florida sun. LED color-changing lighting allows the family to transform the mood of the backyard at night.
Pentair IntelliCenter automation gives the homeowners full smartphone control of the pool, spa, heater, lighting, and water features. The spa can be heated and ready before they arrive home, and the pool lighting can be adjusted from anywhere.
Pool Creations handled all Manatee County permitting and engineering in-house. The project was completed on schedule and within budget.
Field experience behind the finished work
These details explain what the team encountered, why key selections were made and how the documented project moved from site conditions to a completed result.
The established tropical setting called for an organic pool shape rather than a rectangular footprint. The pool, integrated spa, sun shelf and water feature also had to work together inside the screened outdoor-living area.
A blue-green Pebble Sheen finish was selected to complement the landscaping. Travertine was used around the pool and spa because it supports the natural design direction while providing a comfortable walking surface in Florida sun.
The custom freeform shell, raised spa, shelf and water-feature layout were coordinated through the project engineering and Manatee County permitting process before construction.
The completed pool provides an integrated spa, two shelf bubblers, a cascading water feature and smartphone control of the pool, spa, heater, lighting and water features.
Technical review: Pool Creations, Florida State Certified Commercial & Residential Pool/Spa Contractor.
Yes. Pool Creations builds custom freeform pools throughout Bradenton and Manatee County. Freeform designs are among our most popular: they create a natural, lagoon-like feel that complements Florida's tropical landscaping. We handle all engineering, permitting, and construction in-house under Florida Certified Pool/Spa Contractor license CPC1458354.
A sun shelf, also called a tanning ledge or baja shelf, is a shallow, flat area built into the pool, typically 6-12 inches deep. It's designed for lounging in the water, playing with children, or placing umbrella chairs. Sun shelves are one of the most popular pool features in Bradenton. The cost to add a sun shelf depends on size, shape, and features such as bubblers: Pool Creations includes sun shelf pricing as part of every custom pool proposal.
New pool construction in Bradenton typically takes 10 to 16 weeks from permit approval to completion. Manatee County permit processing currently runs 4-8 weeks. Pool Creations handles all permitting and engineering in-house, and provides a detailed project schedule with every proposal.
Yes. Pool Creations serves Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Parrish, Ellenton, and all of Manatee County. Lakewood Ranch is one of our most active markets for new pool construction, with many communities requiring HOA/ARC approval before permits can be submitted. We manage all HOA documentation in-house.
Pool Creations is an authorized applicator for PebbleTec and StoneScapes: the two most trusted pool finish brands in Florida. We offer PebbleTec, Pebble Sheen, StoneScapes Mini Pebble, StoneScapes Classic, and standard white plaster. Our Venice Design Center has full-size finish samples you can view in person.
Ready to transform your Bradenton backyard? Visit our Venice Design Center or call us to schedule a consultation.