1. Home
  2. Outdoors

41 Pool House Ideas To Complete Your Dream Backyard Retreat

We know that photos can be an amazing source of design inspiration, so this article may contain affiliate links that will direct you to a particular decor item. Clicking on a link may result in a portion of proceeds being paid to www.decoist.com

Dreaming of transforming your backyard into a luxurious retreat? Look no further than these stunning pool house ideas. Whether you’re envisioning a modern pool house with sleek lines and minimalist designs or a cozy, budget-friendly space, there are endless possibilities to explore. From detailed pool house plans to innovative small pool house ideas, the right design can elevate your outdoor space into a haven of relaxation and entertainment.

For those with an eye for detail, pool house designs offer a chance to create a personalized oasis. Imagine a backyard pool house that seamlessly blends with your modern rectangle pool designs, offering both style and functionality. Even if you’re working with limited space or a tight budget, small pool house ideas on a budget can provide creative solutions without compromising on comfort or aesthetics. Dive into the world of pool houses and discover how the perfect pool house can complete your dream backyard retreat.

Pool house completes the relaxing setting to absolute perfection [Photo Credit: Ike Kligerman Barkley]

Having said that, an exquisite pool house is different for different people, with each of us having different lounging needs. Then, there is space and budget to take into account. The collection of 41 dashing pool houses on display today covers a wide range of styles and designs, with each one offering something unique and exceptional. Here is your guide into the world of pool-side living:

Contemporary Pool House Bliss

A contemporary pool house is much more than just a place to tuck away all your pool gear, bundles of extra towels, and other essentials. It is a space where the entire family can rest, rejuvenate, and come together, even while enjoying the warmth and sunshine.

The pool area features comfy outdoor décor, a cool couch, some chairs, and a coffee table that can create a sitting zone. An alfresco dining area (or even one indoors) turns it into a secondary living space. Clean lines and a smart modern design that complements the main house in its silhouette ensure that the pool house integrates easily with the overall landscape.

Modern furniture is a key element to any backyard retreat. A contemporary pool house is perfectly accented with a rattan chaise lounge chair. This one comes in sleek and simple white or bright blue for a pop of chic color.

RELATED: Backyard Paradise: 25 Spectacular Tropical Pool Landscaping Ideas

Fabulous swimming pool with alfresco dining and comfy seating for guests [Photo Credit: Acorn Garden Houses]
Awesome contemporary outdoor kitchen that does it all! [Photo Credit: CG&S Design-Build]
Contemporary glass garage door creates stunning visual on the edge of the pool [Photo Credit: Randall Mars Architects]
Stunning entertaining area will wow your guests every single time [Photo Credit: Darren James Interiors]
Smart modern guest house in steely gray [Photo Credit: KAA Design]
Clean lines and exquisite style showcase this woodsy and contemporary design [Photo Credit: Bates Masi Architects]
Small and stylish contemporary guest house packs quite a punch! [Photo Credit: Maienza – Wilson Architecture + Interiors]

A Pool House That Is A Timeless Image of Luxury

There is absolutely no doubting the fact that a pool house has always been considered a symbol of luxury and good times. Classic pool houses definitely drive home this idea, not only with their ergonomics but also thanks to aesthetics that seem to bring alive that picture-perfect ‘holiday postcard’ image. With shingle roofs, elegant design, classic form, and materials such as wood and stone being used elegantly, this pool house paints a picture of tradition and opulence.

While these pool houses look great, remember that they might not pair well with more modern gardens, poolscapes, and homes. They do pair well with classic wicker furniture, like this 3-piece Hacienda set, which is truly timeless.

RELATED: 25 Fascinating Pool Bridge Ideas That Leave You Enthralled!

Matching decor and common hues both inside and outside create a curated poolscape [Photo Credit: Northworks Architects and Planners]
Traditional pool house in white with gray shingled roof [Photo Credit: Northworks Architects and Planners]
Turn the pool cabana into a smart social zone and outdoor living room for friends and family [Photo Credit: Trueblood Company / Tom Grimes]
Twin pergolas add elegance [Photo Credit: Merrimack Design Architects]
Give the pool house a small kitchen and serving station to turn it into a cool hangout [Photo Credit: Matthew Bolt Graphic Design]
Gorgeous pool house also provides a sheltered outdoor lounge and additional space [Photo Credit: Crisp Architects / Photographer: Rob Karosis]

Style, Space, and Décor

Going beyond the aesthetic aspect of it all, we delve into the many ways that you can plan for a pool house. For starters, consider the space available, the size of the pool, the yard, and the main house itself. Your pool house must be in proportion with everything around it and must also utilize the available space to the hilt.

In small gardens, a modest pool and a tiny pool house can still make a big impact. You can even convert that neglected garage or shed into a beautiful and useful pool house. Those blessed with more space might want to consider a design that offers an opportunity for both sheltered and open lounging areas.

RELATED: 23 Small Pool Ideas to Turn the Backyard into a Relaxing Retreat

This guest house style perfectly complements that of the landscape around it [Photo Credit: SURROUNDS Landscape Architecture + Construction / Photography: Bob Narod]
Turn your pool house into a secondary living zone and guest space [Photo Credit: Rick & Cindy Black Architects]

Elements such as an additional guest room, bathrooms, an outdoor shower, a small kitchen, a barbecue zone, and more can be added, depending on both the space available and your lifestyle. Finally, make room for plenty of storage and plan for enough private areas so that your guests feel a lot more at home the next time they come to your pool party!

Unassuming pool house with an adjoining hot tub is all about enjoying the outdoors. [Photo Credit: Harry Elson Architect]
Breezy Mediterranean charm infused with the contemporary. [Photo Credit: Garden Of Eva Landscape Design Group / Luke Gibson Photography]
Fireplace and smart seating is a dream for interior designers. [Photo Credit: Wagner Hodgson]
Even the smallest gardens can fit a pool and pool house. [Photo Credit: Studio Shed]

Pool Houses Inspired by the Sea

Finally, we take a look at pool houses that seem the most popular in recent times – those inspired by sun, sand, surf and the deep blue sea. Styles like coastal, beach, and nautical are incredibly popular when it comes to breezy pool houses that usher in plenty of fun.

The cheerfulness of these spaces, coupled with their reminder of lazy summer evenings spent on the beach, makes them a hit among both homeowners and designers. Clad in white and blue, they draw your attention instantly and also work well with modern homes and gardens.

Custom contemporary design was inspired by waves! [Photo Credit: Canny Design]
Blue and white can create a distinct nautical appeal. [Photo Credit: Liberty Hill Construction]
Making sure the style matches that of the main residence. [Photo Credit: MHK Architecture & Planning / Giovanni Photography]
Beach style and contemporary charm rolled into one. [Photo Credit: HP Rovinelli Architects / Photography: Peter Kucinski]
Beach style with white accents makes for a charming guest house. [Photo Credit: Barnes Vanze Architects / Photography: Anice Hoachlander from Hoachlander Davis Photography]

If you’re looking for design choices to include in a pool house, you have many options. Some of the most popular ones include adding a bar area with comfortable seating, a mini kitchenette, and a large TV for entertaining.

Photo Credit: Digs Design – A shingled pool house is accented with black shutters and sliding glass doors.

You could also add a fireplace for a cozy atmosphere and some comfortable outdoor furniture for lounging by the pool. For a more luxurious touch, you could consider adding a steam shower and a sauna. Other great ideas include a hot tub, an outdoor shower, and a sound system for playing music.

Photo Credit: Peter Dunham – White pool loungers sit along an in-ground swimming pool positioned in front of a gray plank pool house with sliding glass doors.

10 Design Tips for Creating a Great Pool House

  • Consider the size of the pool house relative to the size of the pool. Make sure the pool house is large enough to comfortably accommodate any furniture or amenities you plan to include.
  • Use materials that will withstand the elements. Choose durable materials such as wood, stone, or brick.
Photo Credit: Wyatt Designs – White cottage-style pool house is accented with a copper roof.
  • Incorporate natural light. This will help to keep the pool house cool and also reduce energy costs.
  • Consider adding built-in seating or benches to provide comfortable seating for guests.
Photo Credit: Brooks and Falotico – Gorgeous black pool house is finished with a glass garage-style door.
  • Include plenty of storage space, such as cabinets or shelves, for towels and other pool supplies.
  • To make the pool house more comfortable, include plenty of electrical outlets and consider adding a ceiling fan or other cooling system.
Photo Credit: Raili Ca Design – A rectangular in-ground pool with a corner spa sits in front of a black pool house framed by sliding glass doors and windows.
  • Add a mini kitchen or refreshment center to provide snacks and drinks to guests.
  • Consider adding a bathroom or changing area for convenience.
Photo Credit: Collins Interiors – Gorgeous white pool house boasts Greek columns and is contrasted with black shutter doors.
  • Install a sound system to create a relaxing atmosphere.
  • Add plants and other greenery to create a beautiful, inviting atmosphere for your pool house.
Photo Credit: Cameron Design – An in-ground swimming pool is fixed in front of a shiplap siding pool house accented with sliding glass doors.
Photo Credit: Lindsey Lane Design – Teak pool loungers sit in front of a white pool house fitted with folding glass doors and face an in ground swimming pool.
Photo Credit: Mrs Paranjape – White pool house with gray roof features folding glass doors and white pool loungers under black umbrellas.
Photo Credit: Raili Ca Design – An in ground swimming pool is located in front of a white pool house accented with gray wash dual barn doors on rails.
Photo Credit: Andrew J Howard – A brown single pool house accented with a white door.
Photo Credit: Tharon Anderson – A gray shingled pool house faces an in-ground swimming pool surrounded by slate pavers and accented with white wicker loungers.
Photo Credit: Karen B Wolf – A small blue pool house is fitted with glass garage style doors.
Photo Credit: Mark D Sikes – Pool house bar features green folding doors that open to an in ground rectangular pool and black stools with blue cushions.
Photo Credit: Alisberg Parker – White pool loungers paired with white umbrellas face an in-ground swimming pool and sit on grass-lined concrete pavers leading to an expansive white pool house boasting arched doorways.
Photo Credit: Kristen Panitch – Cottage style pool house boasts a covered patio featuring a black wicker sofa and black wicker chairs placed flanking a black coffee table. A round mirror is mounted to the board, and batten trims over a fireplace.

Related Articles

Pool house ideas are abundant, offering a range of styles and functionalities to suit any backyard. Whether you’re envisioning a modern pool house with clean lines and sleek furniture or a small pool house that maximizes your space efficiently, the possibilities are endless. Pool house plans can be tailored to fit your budget, ensuring that everyone can create their ideal outdoor retreat. By integrating thoughtful pool house designs, you can transform your backyard into a luxurious oasis.

For those seeking more specific inspirations, consider exploring modern rectangle pool designs or budget-friendly pool house ideas. Small pool house ideas can be particularly effective in compact spaces, offering both utility and charm. Ultimately, a well-designed pool house, whether it’s a backyard pool house or a modern pool house, can enhance the overall aesthetic and functionality of your outdoor area. With the right pool house plans, your dream backyard retreat is well within reach.

Ready to bring new life to your home? Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive interior design tips, trends, and ideas that will transform your space. Click here to subscribe!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What type of construction is required to build a pool house?

Typically, pool houses are constructed using wood framings and other durable materials, such as PVC or metal. When selecting materials, it is important to consider the climate and environment, as certain materials may suit particular climates. Additionally, you should consider the size of the pool house and the amount of use it will receive to determine what type of materials and construction methods will be best.

What are the benefits of having a pool house?

A pool house is a great way to provide a comfortable, convenient place to change and store all your pool-related items. It can also provide a comfortable area to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Many pool houses also provide additional storage space, which is great for keeping items like pool toys, pool chemicals, and other items safe and secure.

What are some design considerations for a pool house?

When designing a pool house, you should consider the size and shape of the pool, the type of space you need for changing, storage, and relaxing, and the overall aesthetic of the design. Further, you should also consider any climate or environmental considerations, such as sun exposure, wind exposure, and other elements that may affect the design of the pool house.

What are some creative pool house ideas?

When it comes to pool house ideas, the sky’s the limit! From cozy cabanas to luxurious mini-resorts, a pool house can be tailored to fit your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Consider integrating multi-functional furniture to maximize space, or adding a bar and grill area for entertaining guests. You can also incorporate eco-friendly materials and smart home technology for a modern touch. The key is to create a space that complements your pool and enhances your outdoor living experience.

How can I find the best pool house plans?

Finding the perfect pool house plans involves a mix of research and personal preference. Start by identifying your needs—do you want a simple changing room or a fully equipped guest house? Once you have a clear idea, consult architectural magazines, online resources, and professional designers to gather inspiration and detailed plans. Many websites offer customizable templates that can be adjusted to fit your specific requirements and budget.

What are the different types of pool houses?

Pool houses come in various styles and sizes, each serving a different function. Some popular types include traditional cabanas, modern minimalist structures, and rustic cottages. You can opt for a simple design that offers basic amenities like a bathroom and a changing area or go for a more elaborate setup with a kitchen, living room, and sleeping quarters. The choice depends on your needs and the space available in your backyard.

How can I choose the best pool house designs?

Choosing the best pool house designs involves considering both aesthetics and functionality. Modern designs often feature clean lines, large windows, and open spaces, while traditional designs may include more ornate details and cozy interiors. Think about how the design will integrate with your existing outdoor space and pool. Consulting with a professional designer can also provide valuable insights and help you visualize the final outcome.

What are some modern rectangle pool designs?

Modern rectangle pool designs are a popular choice for their sleek and timeless appeal. These designs often feature clean lines, minimalistic elements, and a focus on symmetry. You can enhance the modern look with features like infinity edges, underwater lighting, and glass tiles. Landscaping around the pool with contemporary plants and materials can further elevate the overall aesthetic, creating a chic and inviting outdoor space.

How can I implement pool house ideas on a budget?

Creating a stylish pool house on a budget is entirely possible with some smart planning and creativity. Consider using cost-effective materials like reclaimed wood or prefabricated structures. DIY projects can also save money—think about building your own furniture or decor. Shop for second-hand items or wait for sales to purchase high-quality pieces at a fraction of the cost. Prioritize essential features and add luxury touches gradually as your budget allows.

Sherry Nothingam

Sherry is a blogger who loves to live her life to the fullest. She enjoys everything associated with design, décor and stylish modern trends. Born in California, Sherry has grown up on open ranches and in a wild setting, which has defined her taste for design and developed her interest in examining how structures and homes interact with the beauti[...]

You might also like