This project is a multi-layered residential design centered around a pool house addition. The scope includes several integrated components: the pool house itself, its basement level, a connector structure linking the addition to the existing house, pool and hardscape design, as well as remodeling interventions at the connection point within the existing residence.

 

At the larger scale, the addition is positioned along the rear façade of the house and extends toward the rear property line while carefully responding to setbacks and zoning regulations. Due to the sloped backyard topography, a terraced landscape strategy was developed to create usable outdoor levels. These terraced spaces establish a series of courtyard-like backyard environments that enhance privacy and spatial quality. Throughout the design process, the existing mature trees on the site were carefully preserved.

 

The lower terrace level was designed primarily to serve the first-floor level of the existing house. At this level, a single-story connector structure links the main house to the new pool house addition. This connector is conceived as a bright transitional space filled with natural daylight, creating a pleasant passage between the living room and the new addition. The majority of this connector volume accommodates a new bathroom and closet area for the proposed primary suite. Within the existing house, the former library space is remodeled into the new primary bedroom.

 

The connector structure is designed with a flat roof in order to visually emphasize the gabled roof form of the pool house within the backyard composition. Its lower façade, facing the lower terrace level, is clad in stone to maintain continuity with the existing residence. The stone retaining terrace walls extend from and integrate with this façade. Between these walls, planting beds are introduced to soften the perception of retaining structures and reduce the visual impact of height differences.

 

In addition, green roof-like planter boxes are incorporated along the top of the connector’s stone façade. Rather than proposing a fully planted green roof system, these integrated planting elements provide a more economical and lower-maintenance solution while still creating a lush and visually engaging backyard experience. Through these interventions, the landscape and architectural elements are treated as a cohesive composition.

 

The pool house itself is positioned approximately half a level above the main floor elevation of the existing residence. This strategy reduces the visual impact of the addition from the front yard while simultaneously allowing for a generous usable basement level beneath the structure. Within the connector volume, a staircase provides half-level transitions both upward to the pool house and downward to the basement level, which includes a theater room, safe room, and mechanical room serving the pool equipment.

 

At the pool house level, the roof configuration was carefully adjusted to avoid an overly massive appearance. The primary gathering space is defined by a vaulted gable roof oriented toward the pool and courtyard area. Between the connector and the pool house, a dormer-like roof element is introduced to provide sufficient head clearance above the stair connection.

 

The main pool house space is designed as an open and flexible environment intended for gatherings, social events, and entertaining. Large windows are positioned on the gable-end façade facing the pool and upper backyard terrace, maximizing daylight and views. In addition, a large folding door system is proposed to create a seamless indoor-outdoor relationship. During favorable weather conditions, the folding doors can fully open, allowing the space to function as a semi-open pavilion connected directly to the pool terrace.

 

The side walls of the pool house are designed with integrated cabinetry for storage, including a compact kitchenette. A concealed Murphy bed is also incorporated within the built-in cabinetry system to accommodate overnight guests.

 

At the rear portion of the addition, a specially designed bathroom suite allows simultaneous use by multiple users. This area is intended to efficiently support pool-related activities such as changing, showering, and restroom use during larger gatherings. To avoid unnecessary circulation space, the bathroom area also serves as the passage to a concealed gym room located at the far end of the addition.

 

Throughout the design process, achieving a balance between architectural quality and budget efficiency was a major consideration. Material selections were carefully evaluated accordingly. Stone cladding is primarily used on the most visually prominent façades and retaining elements, while more economical board-and-batten and horizontal siding systems are proposed for secondary surfaces.