Enhance Your Outdoor Space With These Pool House Ideas

A pool house can turn your backyard into a luxurious oasis. A standalone structure located near a swimming pool, it can serve multiple purposes. Whether it’s a spot to unwind after a swim, entertain guests, or store pool equipment, a pool house brings both functionality and elegance to your outdoor space. Check out these creative pool house ideas for inspiration!

What is the Purpose of a Pool House?

A pool house can serve multiple purposes, depending on your lifestyle and needs. The most common uses for pool houses include:

  • Weather Protection: A pool house provides a quick place to cool off or wait out rain while entertaining. During cooler months, the structure can also double as a man cave or she shed!
  • Changing Room: In addition to being a convenient space for guests to change into swimwear, it keeps wet footprints out of your main house!
  • Bathroom: This is especially useful if your pool is located at a distance from the main house.
  • Storage: Keep your pool equipment, toys, and chemicals safely out of sight.
  • Entertaining Area: It can serve as a cozy spot to host poolside parties and barbecues.
  • Guest Quarters: Give your overnight guests (and yourself!) extra privacy in a fully-equipped living space.
  • Relaxation Spot: Create a shaded area to unwind and escape the heat.
  • Fitness Area: Add your preferred gym equipment to create a dedicated space for workouts and pool exercises.

Types of Pool Houses

When it comes to pool house ideas, there are a few types to consider. Determining the design that is best for you will depend on intended use, design preferences, and budget.

Cabana

A cabana is a simple, open-sided structure offering shade and a place to relax. It’s perfect for those who want a straightforward and cost-effective solution. Usually built with just three walls and an open front, cabanas are often located near the pool deck, providing a spot to unwind after a swim. They can easily be furnished with comfortable loungers, side tables, and even small storage units for pool essentials.

Shed-Style Pool House

This design resembles a garden shed, but is much more refined and robust. Shed-style pool houses are great for storage and often include amenities like a changing room, a small seating area, and plenty of room for storing pool equipment and toys. They often also accommodate features like mini-fridges, towel racks, and hooks for hanging wet swimwear.

Pavilion/Roofed Structure

For those looking for pool house ideas on a budget, a pavilion or roofed structure is an excellent choice. It provides shelter and a shaded area without the cost of building a complete enclosed structure. Pavilions can be constructed with a variety of materials such as wood, metal, or even high-quality fabric canopies.

Modern Pool House

These sleek, contemporary designs often feature clean lines, large windows, and minimalist décor. Modern pool houses can include various amenities like a bathroom, kitchenette, and even a small living area. The emphasis on large glass panels allows for an abundance of natural light and beautiful views of the pool and garden. Interior finishes typically favor neutral colors and high-quality materials, for a modern, luxurious feel.

Pool House with Living Quarters

These more extensive structures are often equipped with bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen, and living space. Pool houses with living quarters are ideal for hosting guests or even serving as a secondary living space. They offer the convenience of having all amenities in one place, making them perfect for longer stays.

Things to Consider When Designing Your Pool House

Designing a pool house requires careful planning. To ensure your pool house meets your needs and fits your vision for your outdoor living space, you’ll want to keep these key things in mind:

1. Budget

Determine how much you’re willing to spend, as this will influence many decisions, including the size, materials, and features of your pool house. Many features could require a more extensive–and more costly–set-up, like a gas connection for a grill or fireplace, or plumbing for a bathroom. It’s important to balance your needs and wants with your financial constraints to avoid overspending.

2. Functionality

What is the primary purpose of your pool house? Is it primarily for storage, entertaining, or as a guest quarters? The intended use will guide many of your design choices, from the layout to the amenities included. As an example, a storage-focused pool house might prioritize shelving and closets, while an entertainment hub might include a bar and seating area. Also, knowing what furniture you want in the space will help determine how large it should be.

3. Location

Choose a location that complements your yard layout and provides easy access to the pool. Other things to consider are the view from the pool house, the position of natural lighting, and proximity to other outdoor features like patios or gardens.

4. Building Codes

Before you begin building, it’s imperative that you check local regulations and building codes to ensure your pool house complies with all legal requirements. These laws vary by location and can impact the design, size, and placement of your pool house. If you’re working with an expert landscape design company, they’ll be able to help you navigate this!

5. Style

Choose a design that fits with your home’s architecture and landscaping. Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist design or a classic, rustic look, you’ll want your pool house to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. One way to accomplish this is by using similar materials and colors as the main house and other outdoor features.

6. Amenities

Decide which amenities are essential for the space, such as a bathroom, kitchenette, or storage space. Consider the types of activities you’ll be hosting and what features will enhance the convenience and enjoyment of your pool house.

Beautiful Pool House Designs

Modern Luxurious Pool House Design

This modern pool house design is the epitome of luxury, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living. It features an indoor-outdoor bar perfect for entertaining, a spacious living room for relaxation, and a fully-equipped kitchen for preparing pool day snacks. It also boasts a private bedroom and stylish bathroom, each adorned with elegant touches.

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Minimalist Pavilion Style Pool House with Fireplace

This pavilion-style pool house offers shelter and shade without the expense of constructing a fully enclosed building. The outdoor fireplace provides an elegant focal point for the structure’s cozy entertaining area.

Sleek Pool House Design with Kitchenette and Entertaining Area

Boasting clean and modern lines, this pool house design features a gorgeous sitting area and stylish kitchenette, perfect for pool day entertaining. The sleek and contemporary architecture seamlessly blends with the outdoors, providing a sophisticated and inviting space for relaxation and socializing.

Elegant Pavilion-Style Pool House with Outdoor Bathrooms

This elegant pavilion-style pool house combines sophistication with practicality. Featuring spacious outdoor seating, a cozy fireplace, separate firepit, and grilling area, this pool house is perfect for entertaining and relaxing. Convenient outdoor bathrooms add to the comfort and functionality, ensuring guests can enjoy the poolside experience without having to go indoors.

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Pool House Designers in Northern Virginia

Ready to bring your dream pool house to life? Book a call with one of our expert designers today and start planning your perfect outdoor retreat!