Conservatories are often thought of as structures that are attached to the home in lean-to configurations. A conservatory can also be a freestanding structure, creating the opportunity for more uses, such as a pool house. The peaceful atmosphere is the ideal setting for a pool house because it provides a place to entertain by the pool.
Planning Considerations
It is important to consider your conservatory's intended use(s) during the planning stage to ensure you incorporate your design's necessary elements. The type of flooring, attachments, style, and the number of entrances will be important factors to determine the design of a conservatory used part of the year or year-round as a pool house.
There are various flooring options available for conservatories, but not all of the options are appropriate for the damp, sometimes wet conditions found in a pool house. Wet feet, damp towels left on the floor, and puddles created by swimmers as they dry can damage hardwood flooring and allow mold and mildew to grow in carpeting. Stone, tile, or concrete flooring are attractive choices that can withstand any water that may be present.
A lean-to or attached conservatory provides direct access to the home, which may be desirable when the pool is located close to the home. An attached conservatory provides access to the home’s bathroom, negating the need to have one in the pool house. A freestanding conservatory can be located anywhere on the property and provides guests a place to feel welcome. It also prevents water from entering your home, where wet spots could cause problems to your floors and furniture. A freestanding conservatory also offers the opportunity to include a restroom; however, plans need to include additional water and sewer lines in a freestanding conservatory.
Incorporating a folding glass wall or sliding glass door into the conservatory wall that faces the pool will provide easy access to the pool and a large, unrestricted view of the surrounding area. The addition of a sliding or retractable screen to the door’s opening will prevent insects from entering the conservatory while maintaining the view. A walk-up bar or serving counter can be created by utilizing a folding or sliding window.
Entertain and Store
A pool house provides you with space to both entertain your guests and store your pool supplies. The conservatory can provide a sanctuary from the midday sun or a brief summer shower. Guests can utilize the space to enjoy snacks away from the pool, and the use of tinted glass and privacy screens can create a space for them to change.
Built-in shelving or bins provide a convenient place to store pool supplies and toys. Allowing you to keep the clutter out of sight and protect the pool accouterments from the elements. If the conservatory is only used as a pool house for part of the year, tote bins may be a more suitable option for storing pool supplies so they can be moved to the basement or attic when the pool is closed.
For more information on how to turn your conservatory into a pool house, please consult a conservatory design expert.
