What Is A Pool House? Discover the Ultimate Guide!

Transforming a backyard into an oasis is a dream for many homeowners. A pool house is one way to achieve that goal and create a luxurious outdoor living space. If you’re considering building your own pool house or curious about what it entails, then keep reading!

A pool house is a separate structure adjacent to a swimming pool that adds value, comfort, and sophistication to the property. While its primary function is to serve as a changing room and storage area for pool supplies, it can also be outfitted with additional features such as a kitchenette, lounge space, bathroom, outdoor shower, and more.

A well-designed pool house not only improves the aesthetics of your landscape design but also expands your living areas considerably – making entertaining guests and family activities even more enjoyable. Whether you have a small backyard, large garden, or rural property, a pool house is always a smart addition that will give a new functional dimension and visual appeal to your home’s surroundings.

“A pool house allows you to enjoy all the perks of having a relaxing space by the pool without ever leaving your backyard. It serves both practical and aesthetic purposes that elevate your lifestyle in ways you never thought possible.” -unknown

If you want to learn more about pool houses and their benefits, this ultimate guide has everything you need to know – from design ideas, costs, materials, and legal requirements to tips on how to create a functional yet stylish pool house that suits your needs and tastes perfectly.

Definition of a Pool House

A pool house is a freestanding building that serves as an extension of a residential property. The primary purpose of a pool house is to provide amenities and facilities for homeowners who have outdoor swimming pools.

What is a Pool House?

In its simplest definition, a pool house is a structure that provides various services and features to those who use it in connection with their swimming pool area. A pool house can house restrooms, a kitchenette or bar, changing rooms, lounge area, and other amenities depending upon the desired function of the homeowner.

A pool house is generally built standalone from the main residence but positioned near the swimming pool for convenient access. This makes entertaining friends and family more comfortable and accommodating for both hosts and guests. Beyond standard uses such as storage space or hosting guests, pool houses are also a great place to unwind and have fun during hot summer months.

History and Evolution of Pool Houses

The first official documentations of pool houses come from Ancient Rome’s public baths known as Thermae. During this time, these buildings were modest in size and mainly utilized by athletes following their daily workout sessions and contests.

Pool houses began appearing outside of the public scale when wealthy families started constructing them in their gardens and estates. Traditional pool houses were made with mosaic tiles, plaster, and stone work that could withstand water and weather damages. These structures served a dual purpose – for conducting pool related activities and alike serving as a guesthouse or weekend retreat for the household members or guests.

With the rise of suburban households and overall social trends in the United States post-World War II, private pools became more popular, resulting in a greater demand for associated structures such as pool houses. Today, modern pool houses designs offer a larger variety of features and are functional for year-round usage relative to past designs used primarily during summer months.

Types of Pool Houses

Pool house types can be grouped into two categories – contemporary pool houses and traditional pool houses. While modern designs lean towards chic, minimalist styles rooted in functionality, traditional ones boast classic renderings with grand entrances and intricate detailing, often standing out as independent buildings on their own.

The choice of color scheme predominantly aligns with the primary residence aesthetic feel.- monochromatic tones characterize today’s architectural principles while placing the property setting at large firmly on the outdoor living aspect than indoors one.

Common Features of a Pool House

• Bathroom/ Restroom Facilities: The presence of a restroom facility is convenient for swimmers changing clothes or using the washroom after taking dips in the pool.
• Kitchenette/ Bar Setup: A kitchenette or bar equipped with mini-fridges, cooking appliances, and storage capacity for party supplies could add an extra utility feature for hosting pool parties more comfortably.
• Changing Rooms: Changing rooms are great for those who prefer privacy when getting into swimming attire.
• Lounge area: Lounging areas serve as perfect relaxation spots for sunbathing, reading, and unwinding in between swim sessions.
• Storage Areas: Storage areas help reduce clutter around the main house but still ensure critical accessories such as swimming gears, cleaning supplies, among others, remain accessible.

“A pool house may seem like a “nice-to-have,” but once you have one, it’s hard to imagine life without the convenience it offers.”

Mary Boyd, Luxe Interiors + Design Magazine.

Benefits of Having a Pool House

Increased Functionality of Your Pool Area

A pool house is commonly defined as an accessory structure to your pool area or backyard. It can be versatile in design, featuring space for storage, lounging, dining, or additional living quarters. One significant benefit of having a pool house is the increased functionality it brings to your outdoor space. Without a designated spot for gathering and enjoying the sunshine beside your pool, guests may find themselves wandering into the main home, tracking water or debris throughout.

With a pool house, you’ll have ample room to store towels, sunscreen, floaties, and other pool supplies. Also, your guests will have access to restrooms without interrupting activities inside household spaces. Many homeowners add mini-fridges, grills, bars, or even full kitchens within their pool houses, upgrading the hosting potential altogether.

“A pool house provides functional space that allows larger groups of people to enjoy outdoor space simultaneously and minimizes traffic into the primary residence.” – Leigh Spicher, VP Design Studios at Ashton Woods Homes

Enhanced Outdoor Living Experience

If you’re looking to upgrade your pool area’s ambiance while increasing privacy and control, then a pool house is a sure way to compete with lavish resort-style backyards. With heightened elegance through décor and furniture style, entertaining family and friends beside the pool has never been easier.

Your new pool house could feature comfortable couches, stunning chandeliers, flat-screen TVs, built-in sound systems, artwork, lush greenery, and more. Another fantastic benefit is that they make perfect areas for relaxation after swimming laps or tanning under the sun.

“Pool houses, when correctly designed, can amplify your property value ten-fold by adding vibrant color, seating accessories for daybeds and lounge chairs, lighting fixtures, and outdoor kitchens.” – John Cornish, Owner of Pool & Spa Warehouse

A pool house is more than just an accessory structure to your pool – it’s an added comfort that enhances the beauty and functionality of your entire property. They can serve as functional space for storing supplies or additional areas for hosting guests while improving privacy altogether.

Design Ideas for Your Dream Pool House

A pool house can serve as a functional and stylish addition to any outdoor living space. It is a small structure located near the swimming pool, which provides shelter from the sun and privacy while changing into swimsuits. However, a pool house can also be used as an entertainment center, kitchen or home office.

Pool House Architectural Styles

The architectural style of your pool house should complement the main house and fit the overall design scheme of your outdoor living space. Here are some popular styles:

• Modern/Contemporary: sleek lines, open floor plan, minimalist elements, large windows
• Mediterranean/Tuscan: stucco exterior, terracotta roof tiles, wrought iron accents, arched openings
• Cottage/Farmhouse: shiplap siding, gabled roof, dormer windows, wrap-around porch
• Colonial/Georgian: brick facade, symmetrical design, columns, pedimented entrance

“A successful pool house marries function with aesthetics in a way that complements the existing architecture.” -Architectural Digest

Interior Design and Decor

The interior design and decor of your pool house should reflect its purpose. If you intend to use it as a storage area, keep it simple and organized. But if you want it to be a multifunctional space, consider these ideas:

• Add furniture: comfortable seating, dining table, bar stools
• Incorporate a theme: beachy, nautical, tropical, rustic
• Install lighting: chandeliers, sconces, string lights, lanterns
• Use decorative elements: artwork, rugs, throw pillows, curtains

“The goal is to use design and decor elements creatively to elevate the pool house from a utilitarian structure to an elegant extension of your home.” -Veranda

Outdoor Living Space Design

Your pool house can also serve as a focal point for your outdoor living space. Consider these ideas when designing the surroundings:

• Create a seating area: lounge chairs, benches, swings, hammocks
• Add a grill/barbecue: cooking space, refrigerator, sink, storage cabinets
• Incorporate landscaping: plants, flowers, trees, shrubs, rocks
• Install water features: fountains, ponds, streams, waterfalls

“A pool house alone can add significant value to your property but by carefully planning its location, orientation, landscaping and amenities you can enhance both the function and beauty of this small slice of heaven.” -Forbes

The design of your dream pool house should reflect your personal style, needs and budget. With thoughtfulness in planning and implementation, your pool house can become a valuable addition that provides enjoyment for years to come.

How to Build a Pool House: Step-by-Step Guide

A pool house is a great addition to any home with a backyard swimming pool. It can be used to entertain guests, provide extra storage space, or even serve as a changing room for swimmers. Building a pool house may seem like a daunting task, but with the right materials and a little know-how, it can be done in just a few simple steps.

Pool House Building Permits and Regulations

Before you start building your pool house, it’s important to check with your local government and obtain any necessary permits. The regulations regarding pool houses can vary depending on where you live, so make sure you follow all rules and guidelines to avoid any legal issues down the road. It’s also a good idea to speak with your neighbors about your plans to build a pool house so they are aware of any possible disruptions during construction.

“Obtaining a building permit for a pool house ensures that the structure meets local zoning and building codes, which can help protect against liability issues.” -HomeAdvisor

Pool House Construction Materials

When it comes to choosing materials for your pool house, there are several options available. The most popular choices include wood, vinyl, and metal. Wood is a classic choice that looks great and offers natural insulation, but it requires more maintenance than other materials. Vinyl is a low-maintenance option that is resistant to fading and cracking, but it may not look as high-end as wood. Metal is durable and long-lasting, but it can be expensive and difficult to customize if you want a unique design.

“Vinyl and fiberglass materials will require less overall upkeep, while wood and cedar offer versatility when selecting colors and themes throughout patio furniture décor for outdoor fun with family and friends.” -River Pools & Spas

In addition to the main material, you’ll also need to choose roofing, flooring, and siding options. This will depend on your budget, style preference, and how much maintenance you are willing to do.

• Metal roofs are long-lasting and low-maintenance
• Tile roofs offer a traditional look but can be expensive
• Wood paneling adds warmth and texture to your pool house walls
• Vinyl siding is affordable and easy to install
• Brick provides a classic, high-end look but requires more upkeep

No matter what materials you choose, make sure they are durable and able to withstand weather conditions in your area. You don’t want to have to repair or replace your pool house every few years because of damage from rain, wind, or extreme temperatures.

“Building with durable materials offers peace of mind when factors such as climate or even storms and debris may impact the structure’s lifespan and aesthetic appeal over time,” -HGTV

Building a pool house can be a fun and rewarding project for any homeowner. By following the proper regulations and choosing high-quality materials, you can create a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Pool House Maintenance and Upkeep

A pool house is a great addition to any backyard, providing not only a space to relax but also serving as a hub for all the action that happens around your swimming pool. To keep it in top condition, regular maintenance and upkeep are required.

Regular Cleaning and Sanitization

Just like with any other building or area, cleaning is an essential part of maintaining your pool house. Regularly sweeping and mopping the floors will help prevent dirt and grime buildup, while wiping down surfaces will maintain their appearance and ensure they stay hygienic.

You should also make sure to clean up any messes immediately, such as spills or wet towels on the floor. If left unattended, these can create slip hazards and lead to accidents.

Sanitizing your pool house regularly is equally important. Pools and hot tubs are breeding grounds for bacteria, so using a suitable sanitizer is necessary. Chlorine is commonly used, but there are alternatives available if you’re sensitive to its smell or effects.

“It’s important to remember that skin-to-skin contact with contaminated water is one way infections can be spread,” says Water Quality & Health Council Chairman Chris Wiant. “Don’t swim when you have diarrhea, frequent bathroom breaks, and change diapers away from the pool.”

Pool House Equipment Maintenance

Your pool house likely has various types of equipment, such as a pump, filter, and heater, all of which require maintenance. You don’t need to tackle these tasks alone: hire a professional pool service to take care of them.

They’ll ensure the equipment is working correctly, catch any issues before they become bigger problems, and correct any malfunctions quickly. Their services typically include cleaning pool filters, vacuuming the pool, and inspecting equipment to make sure everything is in good working order.

Even with professional help, you can still do your part to keep the equipment running smoothly. For example, regularly checking the filter for debris buildup will go a long way towards preventing water circulation issues.

Landscaping and Exterior Maintenance

The area around your pool house also requires maintenance. Landscaping should be kept under control, ensuring plants don’t overgrow or spread too far. Deadheading flowers, trimming bushes, and mowing the lawn are all necessary tasks to keep your backyard looking well-tended.

Additionally, keeping the exterior of your pool house in good condition prevents damage due to weather or pests. Power washing the siding or brickwork removes grime build-up that may affect the appearance or quality of materials. Pruning trees and shrubs near or touching the side of the pool house prevent disease vectors from entering the building via pest infestations.

“It’s important not only to maintain the beauty and functionality of outdoor living spaces, but also to protect their value by addressing any potential problems before they become serious,” says Richard Reina, product training director at CARID.com.

Winterizing Your Pool House

No matter where you live, temperatures can drop low enough during certain times of the year, necessitating winterizing your pool house. Winterizing means protecting the components of your pool house and surrounding facilities from frost, freezing breezes, snowfall, and ice dam formations.

To winterize your pool shed, follow these essential steps:

• Dry everything out
• Empty the filter system
• Plumbing Draining
• Blow out excess water from the pump room equipment, skimmer, and return pipes
• Cover the pool
• Tightly seal doors and windows with insulation wraps.

The process of winterizing a pool house can seem daunting but it’s easier than you might think. You’ll save time and money in the long run because frozen components or snow damage are costly issues to repair down the road if preventative actions weren’t taken prior.

Pool House vs. Cabana: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to backyard entertainment areas, having a pool is not enough. You need complementary structures like a pool house or cabana to maximize the enjoyment of your swimming experience. These structures are perfect for storing pool equipment and toys, providing change rooms, shelters, shade, and refreshments. In this article, we will delve into the differences between a pool house and cabana and help you decide which structure can best fit your needs.

Different Structures and Purposes

A pool house is usually a permanent outdoor structure typically made of stone, brick, or wood that is designed to provide shelter and extra amenities in addition to serving as storage space. Most pool houses contain a living area with comfortable seating and some type of food prep station.

A cabana, on the other hand, is usually a free-standing temporary structure made up of lightweight materials such as cloth or canvas and supported by poles. It’s great for parties and smaller gatherings but doesn’t offer much in terms of permanence or weather protection.

“A good poolside retreat should be versatile, functional and match both personal style and architectural style.” -Henry Mitchell, landscape designer

The main purpose of a pool house is to serve as an all-in-one entertainment center for pool activities. It has larger space and features than a cabana, making it ideal for extended use like overnight guests and summer-long rentals. A pool house may have bathrooms, kitchens, lounging areas, and sometimes even full-size beds installed, depending on the intended usage.

On the other hand, a cabana provides essential functional amenities needed during pool fun, such as changing rooms, shaded sitting areas, towel racks, mini-fridges, and perhaps a bar. It is usually smaller than a pool house and doesn’t offer many indoor storage or sleeping options.

Design and Features

The designs of pool houses come in an endless array to match every homeowner’s taste preferences. There are rustic, modern, contemporary, coastal, and traditional styles available – all of which can be customized with different materials such as stone, stucco, shingles, glass, tiles, etc.

Pool houses often come equipped with electricity, so water features, music systems, cable TV, WiFi, and any other luxury you’ll need for the perfect entertainment experience are not a problem. Depending on the size and style, some pool houses also have outdoor fireplaces, heated floors, and private balconies that let you get amazing views of your backyard and landscape.

A cabana, however, is typically a simple design featuring an open-air layout with one or two solid walls meant to provide privacy. They’re great for creating intimacy for small gatherings of people or just lounging by the poolside but won’t impress architecture enthusiasts like pool houses. Most cabanas are strategically placed near the swimming pool area to make movement easier between them.

Cost and Maintenance

The costs associated with building pool houses vary depending on their size, materials used, amenities installed, and location. You will spend more money on large pool houses with additional rooms compared to stand-alone cabanas due to higher construction and installation fees. Pool houses are built to last, meaning they require much less maintenance than cabanas which rip easily and wear out after prolonged exposure to weather elements.

Cabanas, being lightweight and portable, cost relatively lower than a pool house. The structure itself is cheap, but entertaining demands intense planning and decorative touches like furniture to increase its functionality and aesthetics. Since cabanas don’t need costly installation procedures, they are less permanent but require regular cleaning and may take up more space than necessary when not in use. Cabanas’ roofs degrade faster compared to pool houses whose sturdy materials safeguard them from wear and tear.

Which One is Right for You?

When deciding on constructing either a pool house or a cabana, you should prioritize your personal tastes, budget, location, and needs over aesthetic appeal. If you embrace luxurious living with extended guest stays, prepare meals by the poolside often, hosting large summer events and have a flexible budget, then building a pool house makes sense. On the contrary, if you favor short-term usability, minimalistic design coupled with low cost, privacy, and easy-to-install structures that can add extra camping-style fun, go for a cabana.

“A pool house extends your enjoyment of outdoor life even after swimming season has ended” -Cathleen McCandless, designer

No matter which one you choose, both cabanas and pool houses guarantee outdoor experience enhancement by providing comfort and shelter against weather elements while also accentuating swimming areas’ beauty. Ultimately, it’s all about making the most out of your backyard oasis.

Frequently Asked Questions