Summertime is here, and as the temperature rises, homeowners with pools are eager to make the most of their time by the water. If you and your loved ones practically live poolside during the season, a pool house could be the perfect addition to your backyard. These bonus spaces serve multiple purposes, from enhancing outdoor entertaining to providing shelter and storage for pool essentials. But how do you create the pool house of your dreams? Let's explore some ideas and tips to help you design a functional and beautiful space.
Begin with Functionality in Mind
When designing any space, it's crucial to prioritize functionality. This is especially true for a pool house, as it needs to meet various needs to become the ultimate addition to your pool area. Consider the different roles your pool house will serve throughout the seasons. During colder months, it can store poolside furniture and care tools. But when the pool is in use, it becomes a place for guests to shower and freshen up, a hub for outdoor entertaining, and a storage space for pool essentials. If you have a large pool house footprint and a flexible budget, you can even add a home gym, sauna, in-law suite, or game room for the kids.
Choose the Right Materials
A pool house is a unique opportunity to embrace indoor/outdoor living. Creating an interior kitchen space that seamlessly opens into an outdoor dining area, for example, allows you to maximize your pool house's footprint and create comfortable gathering places for family dinners or summer parties. When selecting materials, opt for those that can withstand the elements as your family and guests will be coming from the sun and water. Choose sturdy fabrics for upholstered pieces, like water-resistant acrylics, and consider slipcovers and removable cushions for easy cleaning. For flooring, look to bathroom tiles for inspiration and choose materials like honed natural stone or concrete that can handle wet feet.
To create a relaxing and entertaining atmosphere, consider adding a sound system with Bluetooth speakers or festive lighting to your pool house. However, keep in mind that the possibilities for incorporating plumbing, electricity, and other utilities will depend on your budget, proximity to your main home, and other factors specific to your property. Consult with architects and design teams to understand what is feasible for your pool house.
Pool House Ideas for Each Space
Now that you have a general idea of what you want from your pool house design, let's explore specific considerations for each space within it.
Changing or Bathing Area
The most essential space in any pool house is the area where your family and guests can freshen up after a swim. Whether it's a full bathroom or a simple changing space, guest comfort should be your focus. Ensure the room is on the low-traffic side of the pool house, provide privacy with curtains or etched glass on windows, and offer spots for hanging towels, checking appearances in a mirror, and storing toiletries. If space is limited, consider adding an outdoor shower on the side of the structure for a resort-like feel and a convenient rinse-off spot.
Outdoor Seating Area
While most pool houses don't have room for a complete living or dining room, they are ideal for creating covered outdoor gathering spaces. Whether you opt for a living room setup with rattan chairs around a coffee table or a long communal dining area for hosting outdoor dinner parties, establishing a seating area off your pool house allows you to create a covered space for gatherings. Extend the eaves of the pool house, add an awning, build a pergola with climbing vines, or select plantings that provide additional cover. Consider installing an outdoor-rated ceiling fan to keep your seating area cool on hot days.
Kitchen and Food Prep Area
If you frequently entertain by the pool, a pool house kitchen or kitchenette can be a lifesaver. It doesn't have to be a full-sized replica of your main home's kitchen, but incorporating essential appliances, countertop space, and storage can make a significant difference when hosting summertime parties. A refrigerator and dishwasher are crucial additions, and the size should be based on your guest list. If you host large-scale parties, you'll need a spacious refrigerator to store beverages, food for grilling, and summer treats. For smaller events, a compact fridge accompanied by a specialty appliance like a wine refrigerator may be sufficient. Including a dishwasher allows for convenient cleaning of poolside dishes.
Laundry and Storage Areas
Transform your pool house into a workhorse by including laundry and storage spaces. A dedicated laundry area saves you from transporting piles of wet towels, stained cushions, and used linens from the pool house to your main laundry room. Look for compact washer/dryer options, such as stacked units, to maximize space. In terms of storage, consider modular solutions that can accommodate in-season pool care items, poolside furniture, umbrellas, and toys during the off-season. Well-designed storage maximizes small square footage and keeps your pool area organized.
When designing your pool house, remember that it's a space for relaxation and entertainment. By incorporating functional elements and enhancing guest comfort, you can create a perfect oasis for summer days by the pool. Get creative and make your dream pool house a reality.
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