By: Robert Norris
Summer is in full swing, and if you own a pool, then expect a parade of wet bathing suits and damp towels being tracked in and out—unless your property also sports a well-planned pool house. Providing needed relief for the main residence (particularly if it abounds with carpet or wood floors), these accommodating structures keep all the hubbub of outdoor activities in check.
And when it comes to envisioning such airy enclosures, architect Robert (Bob) Norris and his Atlanta-based firm, Spitzmiller & Norris, have consistently given clients ample reasons to stay at home. “Regardless the appearance or configuration of a pool house, its primary aspects are geared to entertaining, having shelter for shade, enjoying the convenience of a nearby bathroom, and designating a spot for refreshments and food,” says Norris. “That’s why we endeavor to make them ‘mini destinations’ to enhance social gatherings and family outings.”
Two different trains of thought go into creating these on-site retreats: Either design them to reflect the details and materials of the main house, or infuse them with their own, unique demeanor and feel. With input from the homeowners and allied professionals, like landscape architects and custom pool designers, Norris and his firm consider many factors before choosing the most appropriate course. “Over the years, we’ve taken both approaches in regard to the style and design of these smaller structures. Generally speaking, our accessory buildings always have a certain relativeness to the architectural vocabulary of the main house,” he says. “Some of them have even been quite playful in retrospect.”
“With certain projects, particularly when a pool house is not in close proximity to the primary residence, the ancillary design can depart from a prescribed style by taking on a more relaxed, ‘casual’ nature,” says Norris. And the greater the visual distance between the two structures, the greater the opportunity is to use other materials and features. “As a result, a poolside pavilion can confidently stand as its own little ‘folly’ on the grounds.”
While the spaces and components found within these backyard retreats vary from client to client, Norris has noticed certain must-have elements that top everyone’s wish list. “We’ve seen a huge demand for outdoor fireplaces, along with generous, adjacent sitting spaces that boast large TVs for watching sports and so forth. The most popular request involves areas for grilling that are close to outdoor kitchens,” he says. Still other pool houses are far more ambitious in scope, with quarters for guests, fully executed bathrooms, and additional facilities for pets. “And above all, whatever size the freestanding structure may be, marrying it to the landscape is always essential,” says Norris.
Make an Even BIGGER Splash
Robert Norris provides some additional pointers for outfitting a great pool house:
• A secured dressing area is crucial for visitors and family to change in privacy. Make this space interesting as well, with things like built-in cubbies, benches, and well-chosen finishes.
• Consider including a stackable washer and dryer for all those wet towels and bathing suits.
• When a pool is too close to the main house to merit a separate structure, devote a part of the residence to servicing the pool, such as a screened porch, covered wet bar, or an easily accessible restroom.
