Each week Mansion Global tackles an interior design topic with an elite group of designers from around the world who work on luxury properties. This week we look at how to design and decorate a pool house.
A pool house can make your pool area feel more like a resort than a part of your own backyard. And beyond just a place to change, this mini home of sorts can also have myriad amenities. Here’s what top designers had to say about just how to design this outdoor area with purposeful distinction.
Think About the Design
"The pool house as a structure should complement and relate to the main house—so the architectural relationship between the two is definitely important. It doesn't necessarily have to be an exact duplication but there should be some common themes.
"Usually there is a changing space with a bathroom. Other popular requests include a lounging area, kitchenette, dining area, and a game area. In my last pool house, we even included a bedroom for guest spillover. And, above everything else, it must be waterproof! All surfaces, hard and soft, should be able to withstand wet feet, bathing suits, and dogs.
More:How to Design Inside an Open-Plan Living Layout
This indoor-outdoor pool house designed by Erica Millar combines has the luxe feel of a main home.
Erica Millar"In terms of flooring, I love porcelain tiles. There is a huge variety on the market to choose from. I used one that looks like a light bleached wide-plank oak floor. They are indestructible and withstand wet traffic. Also, make sure the floor provides proper traction against slipping!
"I always love to create storage with cubbies, hooks, and baskets for discarded towels— highly practical but also a good way to conceal messes that are so prone to pool houses.
— Erica Millar of Erica Millar Design in New York
What would you pay for California's largest residential pool? If you said anything under $120 million, you've been outbid https://t.co/9BQLDY1MDp pic.twitter.com/tF12cRaiKi
— Mansion Global (@MansionGlobal) February 14, 2018
Look at Logistics
"The orientation of the pool house on the property is probably the most important consideration. Planning ahead for sun direction and location to the pool and pool deck will ensure you will be able to enjoy the space. Be sure to think about how much sun you prefer and when. I prefer to have three of the walls of the house be glass bifold doors to maximize the open-air feeling. The bifold doors will turn your pool house into a three-season room that you can enjoy even into the cooler months. Take advantage of 270-degree views with the perfect landscaping to create the atmosphere you want.
"A pool house should address every need, so your time can be enjoyed there without running to the main house for every little thing. A lounge space, changing room, shower, vanity, and bar area cover the basics. Don’t forget plenty of storage for acrylic dinnerware, guest towels, toiletries, and cozy throws for cool nights. Think about everything you want when lounging in a cabana at a 5-star resort and make sure you have it at an arm’s length.
"I prefer a porcelain tile with a little texture to it. Be sure whatever you choose is intended for outdoor use. I typically won’t go above a 24-by-24 tile because as it gets larger, the chances of a tile cracking increase. Countertops are also something to consider as not all are appropriate for withstanding the extreme temperature changes. Dekton is a designer favorite as it’s both durable and beautiful.
"Be sure to mix and match furnishings. The tendency is to buy a full set of outdoor furniture, but it quickly becomes uninteresting and predictable. I love to mix modern lounge seating with flea market finds and mid-century iconic pieces to make the spaces dynamic."
— Donna Mondi, founder and principal, Donna Mondi Interior Design in Chicago
Every #SmartHome deserves a smart pool. Here's how to build a high-functioning swimming pool https://t.co/UUvTXK9LGH pic.twitter.com/8cHcCdlV8a — Mansion Global (@MansionGlobal) February 7, 2017
Include All the Essentials
A vaulted wood ceiling elevates the design of this open-plan pool house by Eric Cohler.
Francis Smith"Elements in a pool house should include a half-bath with an attached indoor or outdoor shower (we often combine these through a milk glass door leading to the exterior); a small kitchenette or wet bar (depending on local building codes); and storage for outdoor furniture and cushions during the ‘off’ season. An outdoor fireplace and grill station are an added amenity you might want to consider.
"The design of a private pool house definitely doesn’t have to relate to the architecture of the main home. In fact, many successful pool houses read as separate standalone pavilions or follies in the European tradition. That said, one way to link them is by using similar materials for the roof, siding, or color.
— Eric Cohler of Eric Cohler Design in Manhattan
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