I was appointed by a Project Manager working for a Client who had planning permission in principle for a pool house, adjacent to their tennis court and swimming pool. My job was to detail the drawings to agree the finer points with planning and produce a detailed specification for building regulations approval.

The customer wanted a sleek, modern design with large glass doors which could be fully opened back. The design was set around a steel frame structure internally, so that the doors could run on the outside without being part of the structure.

Large glazed panes make up the front and sides, giving a view across the tennis courts from the pool lounge area. The building features a kitchenette so that food can be prepared alongside the barbeque and enjoyed on the outdoor deck area by the pool.

The building is designed with a cantilevered canopy, supported by the internal steel frame, giving the appearance that it is floating over the glazing, helping to reduce solar glare with minimal structure on display.

The pool house is constructed from a steel frame with insulated timber framing to the rear and side, around the shower room. Grey weatherboarding gives it a contemporary feel and the roof is finished with a matching grey single-ply roofing membrane. The roof canopy allows for rainwater run-off to the ground and into slot drainage, so that the eaves remains flawless with no guttering distracting from the design.

Inside the building is a simple pool lounge with seating and a kitchenette with modern style, handle free units. The shower room is hidden to the rear and allows for a changing area with hanging space for dressing gowns.

The pool has a grey cover, matching the contemporary pool house building. Set amongst a substantial tree-scape, the pool house is almost hidden away from the main garden area.

Plant is housed in a separate outbuilding which matches the materials of the pool house and surrounds the decking area, screening it and creating a private outdoor space. Steps down from the main garden lead to this private area and brick borders showcase a range of plants.

The plans appear quite simple in principle; however, the design of the steel work (by JP Chick & Partners) and the slim framing of the doors had to be just right. A lot of thought and attention to detail went in to producing the sleek, modern appearance.

The Project Manager and customer are both very happy with the end result, which will match in with a new conservatory being added to the main house. “[The Client] thanks you very much for your great work. I have told him how brilliant you’ve been.” - L. Wilson-Smith, Project Manager - January 2020