Inspiration: Pool Houses and Pavilions

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Pool houses and garden pavilions are a luxury most people can't afford, but they also offer ideas for living in a small space. Scaled to accommodate just a room or two, the pool houses above have an open and airy quality that makes them seem larger than they are. They also have a strong connection to the outdoors, an effective way to expand a sense of place...

To make the most of a small area, pool houses often incorporate a patio with outdoor dining or space for a couple of lounge chairs. Another idea we saw implemented in many of these designs is the use of white, accented by a couple of dark pieces, to keep things light and simple. The pavilion in photo #4 is an exception - colors and patterns are mixed together in this space, with a striped central rug tying the furnishings together.

To learn more about each of the structures shown above, click through the links below:
• 1 Palo Alto Poolhouse by Min|Day Architects
• 2 Pool House by Phoebe Howard
• 3 Carter Pool House by Bruce Bolander
• 4 Pavilion from Light Locations
• 5 Potato Field Pool House by Bates Masi Architects

Comments (2)

I love the simplicity of the structure and agree--- cabanas aren't just for pools anymore-- wouldn't that building make a perfect weekend cottage for two?

posted by nadine@bdg on May 6th 2009 at 7:47pm
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The Carter Pool House by Bruce Bolander is amazing- I love its clean and modern look.

posted by modrngirl on May 6th 2009 at 8:29pm
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