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Pool Houses
More than just a place to take an outdoor shower and hang up a wet towel, pool houses have
become one of the latest “must haves” in
the upper end housing market. Many owners
see pool houses as a way to expand their
living space: these structures can now be
full fledged outdoor entertainment centers
or have extra bedrooms and baths for guests.
Pool houses can be designed and built by
local contractors, and plans and customized
kits are also available from businesses that
specialize in such structures.
If you are thinking of installing
a pool
house, consider the following:
- Whatever size pool house you plan to build,
the end result will be more successful if
you pick a building style that harmonizes
with your house and property. Pool house
can be designed to look like cottages, stables,
barns, pavilions or gazebos. The quality of the siding, trim and roofing
is important. Picking weather resistant materials
will limit future maintenance. Attractive
landscaping around your pool house will also
add to its overall effectiveness.
- Adding a kitchen or bathrooms to the pool
house will increase the expense of building
it, but many owners consider these to be
essential. Outdoor kitchens are especially popular features, as are
dining areas, wet bars and entertainment
centers. All pool houses should have adequate
space for changing and storage for pool equipment.
Larger pool houses often also have small
home offices or exercise rooms.
If local zoning codes restrict the size of
the main house, a pool house can be a good
way to add extra rooms. All ordinances and
building codes should be checked before any
construction plans are finalized, as some
communities limit the size and location of
any additional structures on a single piece
of property. |
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