Those planters will be fine once everything else is filled in. Get plants in the planters; more plants and greenery or hardscaping around the rest of the yard; have all the tile and stonework completed on the pool; fill that pool with gorgeous water; place some chairs, loungers, and tables around on the deck; add some kids and adults, and everything will flow beautifully. Right now they're kind of like a water tower. Put one in the midst of tall pine trees, and you hardly notice it. Put one in an open and flat area, and it looks awful. Probably not my best analogy, but I'm tired. You get the idea!
I'm so glad you have your list of "Next Time" changes! I saw several right away after gunite! I do envy those who get to build a second pool at some time in their life. I know it really helped us in building our second home. There's nothing like experience, right?! Every time I hear some first time pool owner say they absolutely love everything about their new gunite shell, I think there must be something wrong with me. But I have to remind myself that I'm out of that "Love is Blind" stage in life. I can definitely see all the warts.
With each new piece of tile, coping, and stone the tile guys are installing, my gunite shell looks a little less imposing. Plus, over the last 4 weeks, I've grown accustomed to its looks!!! You're just beginning. And to me, your shell looks fabulous! Have a great weekend!!! Take care. Suz.