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Luxury Meets the Waterfront: A Vision Realized
Set along the breathtaking shoreline of the Long Island Sound. This recent Gappsi project on the North Shore of Riverhead, NY, showcases the perfect blend of artistry, engineering, and luxury design. It is a custom-built negative-edge Gunite swimming pool. The built-in spa is designed to complement the property’s spectacular waterfront views and create an outdoor oasis of serenity and sophistication.
From the elegant Cumaro wood deck to the shimmering glass tile finishes, every element was meticulously chosen and expertly crafted. The result is a masterpiece that elevates the property’s natural beauty while providing an exceptional space for relaxation and entertainment.
Designing for the Horizon: The Power of the Negative Edge
When your backyard overlooks the Long Island Sound, the view becomes your most valuable design element. Gappsi’s vision for this project was to blend the pool’s surface with the water beyond seamlessly. Creating a signature effect through a negative-edge (infinity-edge) design.
The pool’s location along the property’s edge allows the water to flow into the Sound visually. Creating a mesmerizing illusion of endless space. This architectural approach transforms a typical backyard into a resort-style destination. It emphasizes tranquility and the natural connection between land, water, and sky.
Crafting the Perfect Deck: Cumaro Wood and Cable Rail Elegance
The journey to the pool begins on a Cumaro wood deck, custom-built by Gappsi’s skilled craftsmen. Cumaro, a rich Brazilian hardwood, is prized for its natural durability, weather resistance, and luxurious appearance. Its warm, earthy tones complement the surrounding coastal landscape, adding both elegance and endurance.
Encircling the deck is a steel cable railing system. A sleek, modern choice that ensures uninterrupted views of Long Island Sound. This see-through railing design enhances the space’s openness. It allows homeowners and guests to take in the full beauty of the waterfront without obstruction.
Custom-built stairs lead gracefully down to the pool area. Maintaining a fluid transition between the upper deck and lower patio is an example of Gappsi’s commitment to both aesthetic and functional harmony.
The Pool and Spa: A Fusion of Beauty and Innovation
The Pool and Spa: A Fusion of Beauty and InnovationAt the heart of the design lies the Gunite swimming pools built with precision and advanced engineering. The negative edge runs along the property’s waterfront side. Creating that iconic infinity look where the pool and the Sound merge into one breathtaking scene.
In the center of the pool sits a raised spa, overflowing on three sides into the main body of water. This feature not only enhances visual appeal but also introduces soothing movement and sound, adding to the tranquil ambiance of the outdoor space.
Both the pool and spa interiors were finished with Tao Blue Diamond Brite, a high-end quartz aggregate that delivers a radiant blue hue and superior durability. The finish reflects sunlight beautifully, mirroring the shimmering tones of the Sound and sky for a visually captivating effect.
Fiorito Travertine & Italian Porcelain: A Sophisticated Surface
Fiorito Travertine & Italian Porcelain: A Sophisticated SurfaceSurrounding the pool, Gappsi installed a custom patio featuring Fiorito travertine and Italian porcelain pavers, two materials chosen for their elegance, performance, and timeless style.
The travertine coping and pavers offer a natural texture and subtle color variation that pair beautifully with the Cumaro deck and glass tile details. Travertine’s ability to stay cool underfoot makes it an ideal choice for pool areas, while its luxurious aesthetic adds sophistication to the design.
For the main patio surface, Italian porcelain pavers were installed using an open-drain pedestal system, a grout-free, raised installation technique that allows water to drain naturally between tiles. This innovative system ensures superior drainage and minimal maintenance while maintaining a clean, modern look.
Glass Tile Accents: The Jewel of the Design
The use of glass tile veneer throughout this project brings a touch of artistry and brilliance to the space.
The spa walls above the waterline were covered in vibrant glass tiles, which glisten in sunlight. It enhances the spa’s visual prominence. The same tiles were used as markers on steps and benches inside the pool, blending safety with beauty.
The entire negative edge wall was also veneered with glass tiles, turning the cascading water into a dynamic, sparkling display. Below, a custom-built trough catches and recirculates the overflow water and is finished with matching Fiorito travertine for a cohesive aesthetic. Two symmetrical steps on either side of the pool provide access and balance to the design, also veneered for a seamless finish.
Engineering Precision: The Gappsi Standard
Engineering Precision: The Gappsi StandardBuilding a negative-edge Gunite pool requires expert-level precision in both structure and hydraulics. Every detail from the slope of the edge to the alignment of the tile was executed with Gappsi’s renowned attention to quality and detail.
This project stands as an example of Gappsi’s commitment to excellence, combining advanced pool engineering with artistic design. The result is a flawless flow of water, sound, and light that complements the property’s natural beauty.
Gappsi: Where Vision Becomes Reality
For over 30 years, Gappsi has been transforming Long Island properties with award-winning designs and exceptional craftsmanship. This Riverhead project is a testament to the company’s dedication to building outdoor environments that reflect elegance, functionality, and the client’s personal lifestyle.
From concept to completion, Gappsi handles every phase of construction design, masonry, pool construction, landscaping, and more, ensuring cohesive quality throughout the project.
With this Long Island Sound waterfront pool, Gappsi has once again demonstrated why they are the premier custom pool builder and outdoor living specialist on Long Island.
Experience the Art of Outdoor Living
Experience the Art of Outdoor LivingThis negative-edge Gunite swimming pool in Riverhead, NY, represents the pinnacle of coastal luxury. The combination of Cumaro wood, Fiorito travertine, glass tile, and precision engineering has created an outdoor space that feels both timeless and contemporary. A personal sanctuary designed to inspire relaxation and admiration.
Suppose you’re dreaming of transforming your property with a custom infinity pool, travertine patio, or complete backyard renovation. In that case, the Gappsi team is ready to bring your vision to life.
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A Stunning Gunite Pool and Porcelain Patio – The Centerpiece of the Backyard
The Pavilion – A Modern Outdoor Living Room
Adjacent to the pavilion is a fully functional cooking island, custom-built for this project. The island’s structure is faced with marble split-face veneer, offering a rich texture and upscale appearance. Topping it off is a black leathered granite countertop, which provides a bold contrast and durable work surface for outdoor cooking. This area is perfect for grilling, prepping meals, and serving guests—all without needing to go inside.
The Final Result – A Private Resort in Sands Point, NY
To support this elevation, we constructed a retaining wall that serves both functional and visual purposes. This wall was veneered with Eldorado cultured stone, chosen to complement the house’s existing exterior. It was topped with 
The bump-out circular design blends seamlessly into the surrounding lawn and visually connects with the retaining wall. This curves gently into the space. It’s a detail that not only enhances the utility of the yard but also expresses a thoughtful and intentional design language throughout the project.
From the 
Marble Patio and Pool Coping: Sophistication in Every Detail
We constructed these raised garden beds using Nicolock Firma wall blocks, known for their strength, contemporary look, and versatile design options. The neutral tones and smooth texture of the Firma wall blocks complement the gray marble patio beautifully while providing an optimal environment for cultivating vegetables and herbs. It’s a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern design that supports sustainable living and farm-to-table eating.
Inside, the kitchen is a chef’s dream. The appliances are all Fire Magic, a top-tier brand synonymous with premium outdoor grilling and kitchen equipment. The kitchen includes:
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