Zozaya Arquitectos orients Mexican beach house around reflecting pool

Zozaya Arquitectos has completed Casa Piscina del Cielo, a residence perched on the coastal slopes of Mexico’s Pacific coast, serving as both a home and an integral landscape intervention. The project's design was significantly influenced by the site’s unique topography and existing ancient boulders, which the client requested to be incorporated into an unconventional and paradigm-breaking structure. The entrance to the home is defined by strong geometric forms and stone surfaces, guiding visitors through large doors into a central courtyard. During excavation, massive natural rocks were uncovered and subsequently preserved in their original positions, transforming them into sculptural monoliths that anchor the home’s layout. From this central stone courtyard, Casa Piscina del Cielo expands, featuring a main living space sheltered beneath a towering palapa. This thatched canopy allows the area to remain open on all sides, welcoming sea breezes and abundant natural light. The living, dining, and kitchen areas seamlessly flow into one another, forming an expansive communal space that feels both open and protected. Service areas are strategically positioned to one side, ensuring they do not disrupt the continuous flow of the primary living spaces, which extend onto a covered terrace equipped with a pergola, grill, and bar, offering unobstructed views of the horizon. One of the most notable features of Casa Piscina del Cielo is its swimming pool, which cantilevers 27 meters (90 feet) beyond the cliffside. This pool, suspended dramatically over the coastline and the ocean below, incorporates a square glass window in its floor. This architectural detail provides a unique underwater view of the surf, creating the illusion of floating between the sea and the sky, and thus giving the project its distinctive name and character. The interior design, overseen by DRDS, draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape, emphasizing restrained detailing and furnishings that harmonize with the site’s textures. Adjacent to the courtyard, a cinema and office space are situated next to a guest suite that opens onto its own private terrace. On the most secluded lower level, the main bedroom and a gym are located, both offering views of a tranquil terrace that frames distant ocean panoramas. From this sheltered vantage point, the striking silhouette of the suspended pool above becomes an intrinsic part of the coastal scenery. Taller Entorno was responsible for the landscape design, which thoughtfully integrates plantings and pathways into the terrain, ensuring the house appears to emerge organically from the hillside rather than imposing upon it. This approach establishes a continuous connection between the natural slope, the rugged stone formations, and the constructed elements of the residence. The material palette curated by Zozaya Arquitectos reflects regional authenticity, incorporating woven palm for the palapa and interior ceilings, parota wood for its warmth, and chukum plaster to evoke the surrounding earth. The use of exposed concrete, steel pergolas, and wood decks creates a dialogue between traditional local craftsmanship and a style that borders on brutalism. The home also incorporates passive design strategies and water recycling systems, contributing to its sustainable performance. Overall, Casa Piscina del Cielo represents a harmonious blend of innovative architecture, natural integration, and luxurious living on Mexico's Pacific coast, embodying a unique response to its challenging yet beautiful site. #ArchitecturalDesign #CoastalHome #InfinityPool #MexicoArchitecture #SustainableDesign #LuxuryResidence #LandscapeIntegration #ModernArchitecture

K10 Studio designed a 175 sqm beach house in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, overlooking Ostional Beach, that embodies a low-tech industrial aesthetic. The design prioritizes a connection with nature and panoramic ocean views, achieved through a simple and functional composition. The ground floor features an open-plan living area seamlessly connected to an infinity pool, which is strategically oriented perpendicular to the house. This orientation enhances the visual connection to the ocean and integrates the natural surroundings into the living space. The infinity pool is designed with three distinct depth levels and incorporates sitting and resting areas, making it a versatile extension of the living space suitable for various activities and relaxation. Its symmetrical alignment with the house contributes to a serene and inviting atmosphere. The architects utilized minimalistic industrial raw finishes, including concrete, steel, and teak wood, to create a striking contrast with the vibrant natural environment. Complementing these raw materials, carefully selected mosaic tiles add visual interest with their geometric patterns and contrasting colors, providing elegant design elements within the overall understated aesthetic. This thoughtful material palette contributes to the low-tech industrial concept, emphasizing durability and a natural feel. The upper level of the guesthouse features two master bedrooms and one kids' bedroom, each equipped with balconies that offer views of both the ocean and the surrounding jungle. The bathrooms are designed with segmentation for high functionality, catering to rental purposes by allowing multiple guests to use them simultaneously, which enhances the guest experience and practical utility. The overall design prioritizes both functionality and comfort, creating an inviting and unpretentious space that deeply connects with its natural setting. K10 Studio aimed to balance building size, budget constraints, quality of construction, and the user experience, resulting in a harmonious retreat that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. The project is situated on a hill, providing an elevated perspective of Ostional Beach. The architectural approach ensures that the stunning views are maximized from various points within the house, from the open living areas to the private balconies. Roberto D’Ambrosio captured the essence of the project through photography, highlighting the integration of the structure with its environment and the interplay of materials and light. The selection of materials like concrete and steel speaks to a durable, robust construction, while teak wood adds a touch of natural warmth and local context, reinforcing the 'low-tech' aspect by favoring materials that age gracefully and require minimal complex maintenance. The guesthouse's design as a rental property influences practical considerations such as the segmented bathrooms and robust material choices, ensuring longevity and ease of use for diverse occupants. This project reflects a modern approach to beach house architecture, where industrial simplicity meets natural beauty, offering a tranquil and functional living experience that respects and utilizes its unique coastal location. The emphasis on user experience is evident in the layout and amenities, making it a comfortable and engaging space for residents and guests alike. #Architecture #ResidentialArchitecture #BeachHouse #InfinityPool #CostaRica #Guanacaste #LowTechDesign #IndustrialDesign #K10Studio

TAC Taller Alberto Calleja designed Casa Kani Ini, a seaside retreat situated on a 4,500 sqm plot in the El Vigía sector of Puerto Escondido, on the coast of Oaxaca, Mexico. The project aimed to create a comprehensive living space for a family while minimizing environmental impact. To achieve this, the design strategy involved fragmenting the total built area into several strategically distributed independent structures, rather than constructing a single, massive building. This approach ensures enhanced privacy, optimal ventilation, and a stronger connection with the natural landscape. The social and recreational areas of Casa Kani Ini are housed within a continuous nave, which is supported by a mixed structure of wood and concrete. This nave is oriented directly towards the beach and the Pacific Ocean, maximizing views and natural light. It features a single-sloped roof and a flat slab section that supports a rooftop area. This elevated rooftop serves as a contemplative space, offering new perspectives of the surroundings and enriching the visual and sensory experience from a higher vantage point. A central green water courtyard forms the core of the house, acting as a transitional element and a natural distributor between different spaces. This courtyard maintains a sense of openness and fluidity throughout the property while also providing privacy and enhancing natural airflow. The bedrooms and service areas are organized into six independent modules, positioned at the rear of the property in a staggered layout. This arrangement physically isolates the various functions, with these solid volumes connected only by circulation bridges. This fragmentation of the built mass across the site facilitates a harmonious integration with the surrounding natural environment, allowing the architecture to blend seamlessly into its coastal setting. The design of Casa Kani Ini fosters a dynamic interplay between the architectural forms and the natural environment. The strategic placement of independent volumes, combined with the use of natural materials like wood and concrete, contributes to a balanced and respectful intervention in the landscape. The project prioritizes natural ventilation and open spaces, ensuring that the inhabitants can fully experience the coastal setting while enjoying privacy and comfort. The overall scheme reflects a thoughtful consideration of site conditions and client needs, resulting in a retreat that is both functional and deeply connected to its unique Mexican coastal location. #ResidentialArchitecture #SeasideRetreat #MexicanArchitecture #WoodAndConcrete #SustainableDesign #CoastalLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #EnvironmentalIntegration #PrivacyAndOpenness

This article highlights the design philosophy and execution of a beach house in Pulpos, Peru, owned by Bettina Lolas and designed in collaboration with Venezuelan-born designer Carlos Mota. The home is characterized by its open-air structure and a relaxed, bohemian aesthetic, eschewing traditional beach house tropes. Lolas, a creative consultant based in Lima, acquired the house in 2008, drawn to the laid-back atmosphere of the surfer town and the architecture of the 1980s Juvenal Baracco-designed property. Mota's design approach focused on creating a comfortable and unfussy environment where furniture and decor would gain character and patina over time from the coastal elements. For instance, the outdoor dining table is crafted from butcher's block wood, complemented by folding bamboo chairs that Mota painted black for added drama. The living spaces are kept minimal, emphasizing comfort over extensive furnishings, with a custom sofa banquette topped with pillows from John Derian serving as a key seating area. A notable design choice is the use of museum posters for wall art instead of expensive paintings, contributing to the home's carefree vibe. The primary bedroom features an Indian screen, painted white by Mota, which functions as a headboard, adding texture to the concrete walls, and is adorned with a vintage Turkish suzani bedcover. The bedroom also provides direct access to the pool area, where Mota extended a bamboo wall to enhance privacy from neighboring properties and incorporated a sculptural cactus garden around the pool's edge, chosen for its resilience to direct sun and heat. The collaboration between Lolas and Mota proved highly successful, leading to plans for a second beach house project in Máncora, northwestern Peru. The Pulpos beach house is described as a place where Lolas feels happy, free, and relaxed, particularly when enjoying the terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The article underscores Mota's unique vision of a beach house that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings while offering a distinctive and relaxed living experience. #CarlosMota #BeachHouse #PeruvianDesign #OpenAirLiving #BohemianStyle #CoastalDecor #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #OutdoorLiving

Arquitectura-G has completed the Patio House, a single-story residence in Aiguablava, Spain, which integrates domestic life within a continuous flow of natural light, air, and shade. The design employs a courtyard typology to bridge the gap between the natural landscape and the architectural structure, creating a space that feels both contained and expansive. The house is strategically set back from the original plot boundary, establishing a square perimeter that preserves the surrounding natural terrain. Within this boundary, a roofed porch forms a perfect square, encapsulating a 15 x 15 meter central courtyard. This courtyard is distinguished by a colonnade and features a shallow reflecting pool, along with three trees whose canopies naturally filter sunlight, contributing to a unique microclimate within the space. A thin roof plane is designed to appear as if it floats above the columns and perimeter wall, unifying all the internal and external areas under a single, cohesive horizon. The architectural team for the project includes lead architects Jonathan Arnabat, Jordi Ayala-Bril, Aitor Fuentes, and Igor Urdampilleta, with a project team consisting of Diogo Porto, Siddartha Rodrigo, and Jesús Jiménez. Structural engineering was handled by Ofici:Arquitectura, MEP engineering by TDI Enginyers, and surveying by Xavier de Bolòs. All photography was done by Maxime Delvaux. The Barcelona-based collective Arquitectura-G reimagines the traditional Mediterranean patio house, transforming it into a contemporary dwelling characterized by its disciplined design, material clarity, and intelligent environmental integration. The interior layout revolves around a continuous corridor that encircles the central courtyard. This transitional area, functioning as a variable-width porch, dynamically shifts in its spatial character, ranging from a narrow passageway to more expansive communal zones such as the living room and kitchen. Each room within the residence features direct access to the courtyard through large glazed panels and adjustable louver screens. These elements are crucial for controlling the ingress of natural light and ensuring optimal ventilation throughout the house. The use of exposed concrete surfaces defines the interior, contributing to the minimalist aesthetic, while storage areas are discreetly fronted with wooden doors, maintaining a cohesive design language. The design emphasizes a deep connection with the outdoors, allowing residents to experience the changing light and seasonal variations of the natural environment from within the comfort of their home. The project, known as Patio House, is located in Aiguablava, Girona, Spain. The deliberate placement of the house creates an untouched ring of natural terrain around its perimeter, enhancing its integration with the local environment. The colonnaded courtyard, with its reflecting pool and trees, acts as the heart of the residence, providing a serene and climate-controlled outdoor space. The floating roof design not only serves an aesthetic purpose but also functionally unites the various elements of the house, creating a sense of openness while providing shelter. The selection of materials like exposed concrete and wood for interior finishes underscores a commitment to both durability and aesthetic simplicity. The integration of adjustable louver screens offers a flexible solution for environmental control, allowing inhabitants to customize their living environment. This thoughtful approach to design ensures that the Patio House offers a sophisticated interpretation of a traditional typology, focusing on sensory experience and seamless indoor-outdoor living. #ArquitecturaG #PatioHouse #AiguablavaSpain #CourtyardArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #MediterraneanArchitecture #FloatingRoof #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation

Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Avándaro in Valle de Bravo, Mexico, House A stands as a striking contemporary A-frame residence, masterfully designed by the Mexico City-based architectural firm Metodo in collaboration with Ingeniería Orca. The home's distinctive A-frame structure, which lends it its name, is integral to its design philosophy, aiming to immerse its inhabitants in the breathtaking lakeside environment. The architects prioritized a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living, achieved through expansive walls of glass and strategically placed folding glazed doors. Spanning an impressive 3,523 square feet across three stories, House A was conceived as a versatile space, ideal for large gatherings and entertaining. The ground floor is a testament to this vision, featuring an open-plan layout that encompasses a living area, dining room, and kitchen. This level effortlessly transitions to an outdoor patio and a sprawling lawn through the folding glazed doors. Additionally, the ground floor includes a dedicated TV room, various service rooms, and a comfortable guest suite, ensuring ample space and convenience for residents and visitors alike. Access to the residence and its parking area is located on the second floor. This level houses the first master suite, offering privacy and comfort, alongside a children’s room. Ascending to the third floor reveals a second master suite, providing another luxurious retreat. This uppermost level also boasts a unique yoga terrace, designed for tranquility and offering elevated views, and a secondary children’s room, making the home adaptable to various family needs. The architectural team emphasized the integration of the A-frame structure into every space, ensuring it was not merely a design element but a coherent and functional part of the house. The construction employed a contemporary steel framework, harmoniously blended with traditional local building techniques and materials. This approach not only grounded the house in its regional context but also ensured its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Crucially, House A is oriented towards the north, a deliberate design choice made to maximize and frame the panoramic views of Lake Avándaro. To manage solar radiation effectively throughout the day, the design incorporates lateral balconies. These balconies, drawing inspiration from the decks of boats, allow for controlled sunlight exposure in the mornings and evenings, enhancing the comfort and ambiance within the home while maintaining an unobstructed connection to the natural surroundings. The careful selection of natural materials complements the modern steel and glass components, creating an interior that is both sophisticated and inviting. #AFrameHome #LakesideLiving #MexicanArchitecture #MetodoArchitecture #IngenieriaOrca #ContemporaryDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ValleDeBravo #SustainableMaterials

K10 Studio has unveiled Casa Infinity, a contemporary concrete residence located on Costa Rica's Pacific coast. This architectural project integrates raw materials to create a modern tropical aesthetic, with a notable L-shaped infinity pool serving as a central design element that visually connects the home's interior with its natural surroundings. The residence is situated on a hilltop in Guanacaste, offering subtle ocean views amidst surrounding Teak trees. The design philosophy behind Casa Infinity focuses on blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. The L-shaped infinity pool is strategically placed to act as the primary axis around which the social areas of the house are organized, enhancing this connection to the garden and the Pacific Ocean. The architectural composition is characterized by two distinct volumes. The front volume, designed to face the street, is constructed from exposed concrete, providing a sense of privacy and a grand, temple-like facade. Local artisans were involved in creating a dynamic mosaic texture on this concrete surface, adding a unique artistic touch. The main entrance is further accentuated by large Teak wood panels, which introduce a natural and welcoming element to the robust concrete structure. The material palette of Casa Infinity emphasizes a balance between the raw industrial feel of concrete and the warmth of natural wood. Exposed concrete walls and ceilings are utilized throughout the residence, offering a textured finish that imbues the structure with character and integrates it more deeply with its environment. This minimalist approach is thoughtfully combined with wooden elements to achieve a distinct 'tropical' aesthetic. The construction process benefited from prefabrication techniques, which were employed to ensure both the quality and efficiency of the build. In contrast to the concrete front, the rear volume features a striking steel structure complemented by a ceiling made of local Teak slats. This combination creates a visual and material contrast that adds depth to the design. The living areas are equipped with tempered glass doors that can be fully opened, extending the indoor spaces onto terraces and further dissolving the barrier between the interior and exterior. The infinity pool, which wraps around the first floor, includes a built-in bench, offering a space for relaxation and social interaction while overlooking the picturesque landscape. Casa Infinity exemplifies simplicity, sophistication, and high-end finishes. K10 Studio, the Costa Rican architecture firm behind the project, has successfully blended minimalist design principles with the specific requirements of a tropical climate. The design incorporates natural cross ventilation and solar control techniques, ensuring a harmonious and comfortable living environment that continuously fosters a connection to its natural setting. #ResidentialArchitecture #ConcreteArchitecture #InfinityPool #CostaRica #TropicalDesign #K10Studio #SustainableDesign #WoodArchitecture #Guanacaste

The author shares the initial details and the 'before' tour of their Malibu beach house, named Zuma Beach House, purchased in August 2020. The article begins by addressing frequently asked questions about the property and the upcoming renovation project. The acquisition of the Malibu house was prompted by a re-evaluation of life choices during the early months of the pandemic. The increased flexibility in work and school arrangements, coupled with the recent sale of their studio space in Austin, led the author and their family to pursue their long-held dream of owning a vacation home by the beach. The decision was not a sudden one, as the couple had been discussing a beach house for years, but the pandemic accelerated their timeline. The search for the property led them to a 1950s bungalow listed on Redfin located on the north end of Malibu. Despite its 'crazy floor plan,' the house captivated them with its sunset views over the Pacific, refreshing sea breezes, and existing citrus and avocado trees. A price drop prompted an immediate visit, and despite a stressful few months, they successfully acquired the house. Since then, they have been collaborating with architect Doug Burdge to redesign the space, aiming to align it with their vision and accommodate their family's lifestyle. The article clarifies that the family does not have existing ties to Malibu, as the author is from Texas and her husband is from San Diego, with most of their family residing in Austin. However, both the author and her husband have always felt a strong connection to the West Coast. Their personal experiences in Los Angeles and Malibu, including a memorable trip and visits to local homes and farms, solidified their affection for the area. They were particularly drawn to the north part of Malibu for its surf culture, focus on nature, and abundance of hiking trails, perceiving it as a more laid-back environment compared to the bustling pace of their lives in Austin. The Malibu house is situated on just under an acre, offering views of Zuma Beach and featuring mature palm, citrus, and avocado trees. It is located on a quiet street adjacent to a horse farm. While the property boasts charming elements, it also presented significant challenges. A prominent electrical pole obstructs the beach view, an issue the family has been diligently working with the city to resolve by burying it underground. Additionally, the existing 1,400-square-foot house suffers from low horizontal ceilings and a confusing floor plan, which makes navigating the interior difficult for guests. The renovation plans involve demolishing most interior walls to create a more functional layout. The renovation will involve maintaining the original footprint of the house while completely reconfiguring the interior rooms. A major addition will be a 1,000-square-foot great room, encompassing a large open kitchen and living area. All ceilings will be vaulted to enhance the sense of airiness and openness. The existing 600-square-foot guest house will undergo a gut renovation, transforming it into a chic, boutique-hotel-style one-bedroom loft. #MalibuRenovation #ZumaBeachHouse #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalRedesign #CoastalLiving #PandemicInspired #CaliforniaLifestyle

This article details a contemporary 6,000-square-foot residence in Southern California’s Manhattan Beach, designed by Montalba Architects. The dwelling spans three floors on a long, deep lot, characteristic of the area's ocean-adjacent properties, and addresses the challenge of dense proximity while maintaining a sense of openness. The exterior features a pared-down palette of plaster, Douglas fir for the roof overhang, and Western red cedar for a textural screen wall, complemented by an abundance of glass, suggesting a voluminous interior presence. The interior design ingeniously mitigates any feeling of compression through a double-height interior courtyard open to the sky, serving as the central organizing element of the home. Entry to the house is through a screened, semi-outdoor garden space on the ground floor. This level contains a guest room and bath, mechanical and laundry areas, a large gym, and an expansive garage designed to accommodate up to six vehicles, catering to the owner’s passion as a Porsche collector. The "real" front door is situated on the second level, accessible via an exterior stairway. On the second floor, an entry foyer overlooks the central courtyard, which features a large maple tree. This alfresco amenity is visible from various points throughout the house, including from the third floor. This level is dedicated to the owners' private spaces, encompassing the primary ensuite bedroom and bath, as well as separate her and his offices. An additional deck expands the usable outdoor area. An indoor, light-filled stairwell connects to the third floor, strategically located to maximize natural daylight. David Montalba emphasizes that a consistent theme in his diverse architectural work is the sculpting and engaging integration of natural light into buildings. The third floor accommodates the main living areas, including a conjoined living, dining, and kitchen zone, alongside a family-media room. This family-media room opens through sliders to an outdoor living space, featuring the tall courtyard and a deck with a lap pool, overlooked by a vertical garden. This vertical garden enhances privacy and adds a unique aesthetic element. The design also incorporates a subtle 'slot of space' on the third floor, allowing for distant views of breaking waves from all rooms. Montalba’s modernist approach is evident in the minimal finishes and furnishings throughout the home. Flooring consists of white oak indoors, transitioning to ipe outdoors, designed to blur the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces. Other prominent materials include vertical-grain white oak for millwork and acid-blasted silver travertine from Belgium for the living room fireplace. The furniture selection features pieces from acclaimed designers such as Finn Juhl, Rodolfo Dordoni, Edward Barber & Jay Osgerby, Roberto Barbieri, and Roberto Lazzeroni. The home also integrates contemporary art from artists like Andy Moses and Casper Brindle, alongside a family heirloom Steinway piano, blending modern aesthetics with personal history. #MontalbaArchitects #ManhattanBeach #ContemporaryArchitecture #BeachHouseDesign #ModernistDesign #InteriorCourtyard #LuxuryResidential #SouthernCaliforniaHomes #ArchitecturalLighting

Bohlin Cywinski Jackson designed the San Marino Residence, a waterfront property on Miami's Biscayne Bay for clients who own a California winery. The clients sought a home that would emphasize lush tropical surroundings and facilitate indoor/outdoor living directly on the water. The residence is situated on a narrow, wedge-shaped lot, and its design expands towards the waterfront, maximizing views and access to the bay. The architectural composition consists of three distinct linear elements. A two-story volume accommodates the primary living spaces, providing ample room for daily activities and relaxation. Adjacent to this, a single-story wing houses a guest suite and an office, offering privacy and dedicated workspaces or accommodations for visitors. A key architectural feature is the elevated lap pool, which extends dramatically into the backyard, providing a striking visual element and an elevated recreational space. The most distinctive aspect of the design is the cantilevered pool, which projects an impressive 18 feet over the home's main entry and walkway. This bold design choice creates a memorable visual statement and an architectural landmark for the property. The main living and sleeping areas are housed within the primary structure, designed to integrate seamlessly with the outdoor environment. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors are a prominent feature, allowing for abundant natural light and enabling ocean breezes to circulate throughout the interiors, which is crucial for maintaining comfort in a tropical climate. To mitigate direct sun exposure and prevent excessive heat gain, the design incorporates large roof overhangs, which provide shade and contribute to the home's energy efficiency. Inside, a large expanse of windows illuminates the staircase, connecting the sleeping quarters on the upper level with the living spaces below. This design choice ensures that even transitional areas within the home are bathed in natural light and offer visual connections to the surroundings. The overall design prioritizes a contemporary aesthetic while addressing the specific environmental conditions and lifestyle desires of the homeowners. The blend of sleek architectural lines, thoughtful material selection, and strategic orientation towards the water creates a residence that is both visually stunning and highly functional for its Miami Bay setting. The home serves as a luxurious retreat, embodying modern indoor/outdoor living with a focus on both comfort and innovative design. #WaterfrontHome #BiscayneBay #ModernArchitecture #CantileveredPool #IndoorOutdoorLiving #TropicalDesign #BohlinCywinskiJackson #MiamiHomes #LuxuryResidence

The allure of lounging by a pool on a warm, sunny day is undeniable, making it essential to plan the perfect pool setup as summer approaches. This comprehensive guide offers inspiring swimming pool designs, catering to both those looking to update an existing pool and those planning a new installation. The designs range from a Tuscan-style retreat and rustic farmhouse aesthetics to indoor lap pools and configurations with outdoor bars, all aimed at fostering relaxation and enjoyment. Readers are encouraged to draw inspiration from these ideas to create their ideal pool. The article highlights various design elements and features to consider. Integrating a fountain element can create a spa-like auditory experience, exemplified by an Odessa stone pool edging with simple passageways. For a more natural aesthetic, pools can be set in aggregate-seeded concrete decking, surrounded by low-water, low-maintenance native plants, immersing the pool area in nature. Choosing a black pool can further blend it into the surrounding landscape, especially when abundant mature trees are present. Creative tiling, such as deep teal square mosaic tiles combined with clay or brick, can add warmth and visual interest. Clear glass enclosures offer a sleek, unobtrusive barrier, allowing architectural geometry to shine while preventing splashes in seating areas. Bringing the lawn directly to the pool's edge can make the pool appear to float, creating a natural mirror to the sky. Utilizing different materials for opposite pool edges, like off-white patio edges transitioning to natural grasses, can create a glistening visual segue. For a historic ambiance, vintage furnishings and decor can transform a pool area into an ornamental water feature. Incorporating built-in steps ensures easy accessibility for all users, regardless of pool size. Resort-inspired designs, featuring irregular stonework and oblong shapes, can evoke a lagoon-like feel, enhanced by browsing images from luxury resorts for additional shape ideas. Functional considerations include building the pool near an outdoor home bar, optimizing it with Baja shelves and built-in side tables for entertaining. For exercise-focused pools, a rectangular, long, and linear shape is recommended, offering more cover options. Connecting the indoor kitchen to the swimming deck via a large awning window and exterior counter extension can create visual cohesion with modern materials. Playful tiles, like eclectic patterns, blooming bougainvillea, and unique umbrellas, can infuse personality without being overly eccentric. Overcoming regional restrictions for pool installation might involve strategic planting, using smaller floor cushions, and installing swimming jets for lap swimming in confined spaces. Creating an eye-catching pathway, such as an offset stacked bond pattern, can visually lead to the pool. Experimenting with shapes, like circular pools, can create whimsical yet sophisticated designs that complement unique architectural features. Fencing, whether minimalist or classic stone, is crucial for privacy and safety. Multi-tiered infinity pools can offer several levels for separation, like jacuzzis and swimming areas, especially when overlooking scenic landscape features. Other ideas include matching the pool design to the home's architectural style, swapping a jacuzzi for an outdoor fire pit, carving out dedicated bar prep areas, and creating all-white sitting areas for sleek pool parties. Building a built-in island within the pool adds functionality and visual appeal. Enhancing the surroundings with light stone tile borders and gravel walkways can seamlessly integrate the pool into the environment. Rustic touches like barn doors for pool houses, and thoughtful decor such as painted wood paneling, brushed cement floors, and lantern installations, can elevate the pool space. Adding pops of color through gas lanterns and bolster cushions can introduce a vibrant, thematic feel. Incorporating indoor-outdoor pools with glass walls offers year-round usability and unique architectural statements. Landscaping around the pool, rather than a traditional rectangular shape, allows for lush plants and defined shallow ends. Focusing on the view with minimalist decks and infinity pools creates a stunning, expansive visual. Bold pool tiles, natural shade from foliage, creative sunshades, grid-like stone pavers, kid-friendly features like slides, built-in seating areas, darker stone tiles for moodier ambiance, integrated spas, and matching guesthouses to pool exteriors are also explored. Lastly, adding drama with stepping stones, incorporating underwater seating, using clipped boxwood and hedges for classic looks, drawing inspiration from grand designs, building adjacent gazebos, and hanging sheer curtains can all contribute to a truly magnificent pool area. Constructing a raised deck can elevate the pool area above less attractive functional spaces, creating a private retreat. #PoolDesign #BackyardOasis #OutdoorLiving #HomeDecor #LandscapeDesign #SummerReady #LuxuryPools #PoolsideEntertaining #Relaxation

The article showcases a modern lakeside pool house in Gallatin, New York, designed to accommodate four generations of a family and their guests. The initial vision for the property was a family escape, particularly during the pandemic when four generations resided together in the main house, built in 2017 by Carol Kurth Architecture. This led to the development of a separate, expansive pool house, also serving as a guest house, to meet the diverse needs of a large, multi-generational family and their community-oriented lifestyle. The design process involved a collaborative effort with Bedford-based designers Carol Kurth, AIA, Hilary Matt, and builder David Penny of East Mountain Construction Management. Gabby, one of the homeowners' daughters, played a key role in overseeing the construction. The inspiration for the pool house stemmed from a long-standing family tradition of gathering at a lake house, a tradition Gabby's father, who grew up in South Africa, sought to continue after purchasing the Columbia County property nearly three decades ago. The pool house complements the main residence while integrating with its natural surroundings, emphasizing a more casual and adventurous design approach suitable for a second home. The pool house's layout prioritizes ease of access and functionality for large groups. It features a unique design without a traditional front door, instead offering "wet-dry footpaths" that lead into a mudroom or through the pool bathroom. The mudroom is equipped with cubbies for storage and laundry facilities for wet towels. This area seamlessly transitions into the main entertaining space, characterized by vaulted ceilings and expansive glass doors that open onto a covered outdoor seating area, fostering a continuous indoor-outdoor experience. A notable playful element is a rock-climbing wall that extends from beyond the mudroom into the living room, appealing to children. Durability and child-friendliness were central to the interior design choices. High-quality vinyl flooring, mimicking wood, was installed to withstand water and heavy use. Furniture, such as the Verellen living room sofas, are covered in outdoor fabric, ensuring easy cleaning of spills. A chalkboard-covered pocket door separates the bedroom wing from the main living space, adding another interactive element. The bunk room, designed by Kurth and Matt, features timeless navy hues and full-size beds to accommodate guests of all ages. For children, the room includes monkey bars that span a wall and across the ceiling, along with individual Sazerac Stitches sconces by each bed. The primary bedroom offers a luxurious retreat, featuring a plush bed from Muskoka Living, Kelly Wearstler side tables, Allied Maker alabaster sconces, a Katy Skelton bench, and Matouk linens. Its design incorporates extensive glass, providing views of the woods and lake, creating a treehouse-like ambiance with modern comforts. The primary bathroom continues this theme with a floor-to-ceiling slot window in the shower. Art curated by Gabby's mother, a former Guggenheim curator, is integrated throughout the house, including pieces from her personal collection and abstract works created by a family friend in collaboration with Gabby's brother. The outdoor spaces are equally integral to the family's entertaining, with an outdoor kitchen added by the pool and a sun shelf in the Wagner Pools-installed pool. The surrounding landscape by Biasin Landscape features bluestone pavers and wood planks, mirroring the house's modern aesthetic. #LakesideLiving #PoolHouseDesign #MultiGenerationalHome #FamilyEscape #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving #ModernHome

The Pergola House in Playa Grande, Costa Rica, designed by Studio Saxe, represents a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living, conceived after the clients experienced a personal loss and sought a fresh start in Costa Rica. The architectural design was specifically tailored to integrate with the vibrant natural landscapes of the region, focusing on a seamless transition between the home and its environment. The project's genesis stems from the clients' desire for a deep connection with nature and an active family lifestyle following the loss of their previous home to wildfires. The core concept of the Pergola House revolves around a series of elegant pergolas. These structures serve multiple functions: they unify the garden with the living spaces, extend the outdoor experience by inviting coastal breezes and panoramic mountain and ocean views into the home, and provide natural shade. The design is characterized by structured rib elements that can expand or contract, adapting to the surrounding topography and existing trees. This adaptability allowed for the incorporation of natural elements directly into the architectural scheme, with intentional gaps in the roofline to accommodate and celebrate the verdant vegetation. Sustainability was a paramount consideration in the design and construction of the Pergola House. The residence generates its own energy through solar power, while the extensive pergolas and overhangs provide natural shading to mitigate heat gain. Strategic placement of windows promotes natural cross-ventilation, drawing cool air from both the ocean and the mountains, thereby reducing reliance on artificial cooling systems. Furthermore, water recycling systems are implemented to irrigate the surrounding landscape, supporting local flora and contributing to the cooling of the home's exterior surfaces. This holistic approach ensures that the house not only minimizes its environmental footprint but also actively enhances its ecological setting. The construction process emphasized efficiency and minimal environmental impact. Prefabricated structural metal ribs were assembled on-site, a method chosen to reduce disruption to the natural landscape. This technique also offered flexibility, allowing the architecture to navigate around existing trees and challenging topographical features. The project utilized a combination of local materials and prefabricated elements, showcasing a commitment to light-touch construction that integrates innovation with traditional building practices. This approach underscores the project's dedication to both aesthetic harmony and ecological responsibility. Completed in December 2022, the Pergola House spans approximately 400 square meters. The design director for Studio Saxe was Benjamin G. Saxe, with interior design by Sofía Interiorismo, landscape design by Studio Saxe, structural engineering by GUIDI Estructurales, and electromechanical engineering by DYNAMO. C+C served as the builder. The clients expressed that the home symbolizes renewal and resilience, providing a sanctuary where family life can thrive amidst nature. The architectural philosophy captivated them with its seamless integration into the environment and its reflection of the inhabitants' personal journey, creating a dwelling that embodies hope and new beginnings in the vibrant Costa Rican landscape. #PergolaHouse #CostaRicanArchitecture #SustainableDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #StudioSaxe #PlayaGrande #TropicalArchitecture #EcoFriendlyHome

This article details the multi-year project undertaken by Venetian Backyards, a Phoenix-based company, in collaboration with DRRL Construction, a custom home builder in Scottsdale, Arizona. The project focused on creating a modern oasis in the hills of northern Phoenix, designed to seamlessly integrate with a contemporary home featuring 20-foot-high sliding glass doors. The primary challenge involved designing a waterscape that not only highlighted the surrounding mountain views but also blended indoor and outdoor living spaces. The design, planning, and construction phase spanned over two years, resulting in a backyard recognized as one of Pebble Technology’s 2021 World’s Greatest Pools. A key design element involved an unconventional placement of the spa and pool. Instead of situating the spa near the home and directing the pool's vanishing edge towards the yard’s perimeter, the team reversed this layout. The spa was placed at the far end of the waterscape, and the pool's vanishing edge was oriented towards the house. This decision aimed to create a distinct aesthetic and capitalize on the prime view of Camelback Mountain. The spa's elevated position offers an unobstructed panoramic view of the mountains, which can be enjoyed both from within the spa and from a surrounding fire pit. The fire pit, encircling the back half of the spa, creates visual illusions where the water appears to spill into the fire and the flames seem to float on the water when viewed from different angles. This effect is achieved by an approximately 6-inch-wide custom-fabricated metal channel with a slot and grating system beneath the fire glass, allowing water to spill near the flames. The fire pit itself is constructed from masonry, with the grating system integrated into it to support the fire bar and gas line. Material selection played a crucial role in achieving the desired aesthetic. Pebblesheen in Blue Surf was chosen for the pool’s water color, decided after consulting with the clients on their preferred natural water hues. A blend of glass mosaic tiles in tans, golds, and black was used to complement the modern desert architecture and overall yard design. The deck and masonry incorporated the same cream-colored stone used for the home, cut to size for the decking and floating pavers set within artificial turf. Venetian Outdoors also oversaw the softscape design, planting large ficus trees and hedges early in the construction timeline to ensure they would mature alongside the project. Pygmy date palms were strategically placed throughout the yard to add visual and architectural depth. The outdoor space was further enhanced with four televisions for entertainment and a putting green, designed for use from both the upper and lower levels, catering to the homeowners' interest in golf. The final design effectively tiered to the hillside view, maintaining a modern aesthetic and providing a stunning vista from the residence, successfully integrating the entire yard with the home's contemporary design. #SwimmingPoolDesign #GlassTile #ArizonaLandscape #OutdoorLiving #ModernDesign #Waterscape #CustomHome #VanishingEdge #FireFeature

Diane Fogerty, owner of Savvy Surrounding Style, embarked on a transformative project to convert her pool house into an open-air entertainment space, driven by a desire to seamlessly integrate indoor and outdoor living. The core of this renovation involved removing a full wall and three-quarters of another, replacing them with folding glass doors. This strategic design choice allows the space to function year-round, enabling the family to enjoy an 'outside' feel regardless of weather conditions, with the flexibility to close the doors and utilize heating or air conditioning as needed. The outdoor element is further emphasized by the inclusion of an oversized grill, facilitating year-round outdoor cooking. The transformed pool house, situated on a 3-acre property in Frontenac, offers a unique 'glamping' experience, blending the joys of nature with the comforts of home. Beyond the kitchen, the space is thoughtfully furnished with two full-size sofas, floor pillow seating, a bespoke humidor, and a convenient powder room. While the natural surroundings, including weather, stars, and sunshine, serve as the primary focal point, meticulous attention was paid to the interior design. A neutral color palette, featuring creamy Danby marble and natural stone accents, was chosen to enhance the open and airy feel of the space. The console beneath the television is crafted from wood and stone, contributing to the natural aesthetic, while decorative light fixtures above the living area are made from grapevine and twigs, further reinforcing the organic theme. The flooring, travertine tile, extends from the pool deck into the interior, providing a cohesive look that is both slip-resistant and easy to maintain, mirroring the natural variations of stone. Fogerty offers advice for creating comfortable outdoor living areas, stressing the importance of personalizing the space as one would an indoor room. She highlights her own addition of a hanging herb garden on a brick wall, which not only provides fresh herbs for cooking but also infuses the space with pleasant aromas. For ambiance, an outdoor fireplace is recommended, with options like tabletop fire pits available for smaller areas. Practical seating solutions for limited spaces include built-in benches adorned with attractive fabrics and throw pillows, or hanging swings, ensuring comfort without sacrificing space. To achieve a harmonious flow between the indoor and outdoor environments, Fogerty advises maintaining a consistent color palette. The renovated pool house serves as a cherished retreat for Fogerty's family, offering a relaxed setting for various activities such as outdoor movie nights and watching sports. The ability to enjoy these experiences within the comfort of their home, while feeling connected to nature, underscores the success of the design. The project demonstrates how thoughtful design can bridge the gap between interior comfort and the natural environment, creating a versatile and inviting space for entertaining and relaxation. #HomeDesign #PoolHouse #OutdoorLiving #EntertainmentSpace #InteriorDesign #NeutralPalette #FoldingGlassDoors #TravertineTile #DianeFogerty

This article details the transformation of a circa-1980 Ventura, California, beach house, purchased by an LA-based couple with two young children at the beginning of the pandemic. The homeowners enlisted designer Jess Diab, formerly a project manager for Sarah Sherman Samuel, to redesign the space. The house, which was the only oceanfront property available at the time, presented a unique design challenge due to its irregular shapes, compartmentalized social areas, and a 'clunky' three-floor layout. Diab's design philosophy centered on celebrating the home's existing geometry, particularly inspired by its swooping entry stairwell. The primary goal was to enhance the sense of flow throughout the three-story structure without undertaking major structural changes. The layout includes guest bedrooms on the lower, beach-level floor, living, dining, and cooking areas on the middle floor, and a partially open, lofted main bedroom. Diab aimed to create numerous "moments" and visual movement to counteract the feeling of simply navigating a series of staircases. Key design elements and strategies implemented by Diab included plastering the walls of a funky stairwell niche to create a soothing, textured aesthetic. This area was further adorned with a sculptural side table and a large decorative clamshell, designed to encourage a momentary pause before guests exit the home. In the guest bedrooms on the ground floor, Diab opted for a hotel-suite ambiance, incorporating simple nightstands and pendant lights. A notable design choice in these rooms involved custom cushioned panels framing the headboard, inspired by Drop It Modern fabric. A black side table, originally an inexpensive find, was spray-painted to elevate its appearance and complement the graphic patterns in the room. The lofted main bedroom initially suffered from a long, narrow configuration, resembling a 'bowling alley' where the bed could only be placed on one wall. To mitigate this awkward orientation, Diab introduced a custom channel-tufted headboard to visually expand the room with horizontal lines. In the kitchen, a new marble countertop and backsplash featuring dark green and gray veining were selected to evoke the Pacific Ocean. The slab yard meticulously book-matched the visible edges of shelves to create a continuous, swirling, watery effect. An upper shelf was strategically placed to keep essentials like coffee and mugs accessible for guests. Addressing storage concerns, Diab collaborated with professional organizer Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing. Beyond stocking the house with the family's preferred snacks, the project involved building custom cabinets to accommodate surplus kitchen items. Given the homeowners' need to host up to 15 people, Strickland designed extra storage around the dining nook for pantry items and dishes. The curved theme was extended to these cupboards, which were finished with Park Studio hardware, a detail replicated in the bedroom closets. The collaboration with Strickland reportedly brought a sense of calm and order to the home's functional aspects. #HomeRenovation #BeachHouseDesign #InteriorDesign #CoastalLiving #SpacePlanning #CurvedArchitecture #VenturaCalifornia #JessDiabStudio #StorageSolutions

This article details the transformation of a circa-1980 beachside home in Ventura, California, which was purchased by a Los Angeles-based couple with two young children at the beginning of the pandemic. The homeowners enlisted designer Jess Diab to revitalize the property, which was initially described as "clunky" with irregular shapes and compartmentalized social areas. Diab's primary goal was to celebrate the existing geometry of the space while introducing a sense of flow and movement, despite the house's three-story layout and numerous stairs, which often made it feel disjointed. The design strategy focused on enhancing the home's inherent curves and improving its functionality without undertaking major structural changes. The house features guest bedrooms on the lower level, living, dining, and kitchen areas on the middle floor, and a partially open, lofted main bedroom. Diab addressed the 'clunky' feel by creating design 'moments' throughout the house, aiming to give the illusion of seamless movement. For instance, a funky stairwell niche was transformed into a calming focal point using textured plaster walls, a sculptural side table, and a decorative clamshell, encouraging occupants to pause and appreciate the space. In the guest bedrooms, located on the beach level, Diab aimed to create a hotel-suite ambiance. This was achieved by incorporating simple nightstands and pendant lights. A custom-cushioned panel, sourced from Drop It Modern fabric, inspired the design of a three-ball side table. This table, originally an inexpensive piece, was spray-painted to mimic a high-end designer item, demonstrating a resourceful approach to budget-conscious design. The lofted main bedroom, initially narrow and awkward, was made more inviting with a custom channel-tufted headboard that introduced horizontal lines, visually broadening the space. The kitchen's design also incorporated the theme of movement and connection to the surroundings. A new marble countertop and backsplash, featuring dark green and gray veining, were selected to evoke the Pacific Ocean. The visible edges of the shelves were meticulously book-matched to create a swirling, watery effect. An upper shelf was strategically placed to ensure easy access to essentials like coffee and mugs for guests. Storage was a significant consideration, especially since the homeowners needed to accommodate up to 15 people. Diab collaborated with professional organizer Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing to not only stock the home with family favorites but also to design and install custom cabinets. These cabinets, framing the dining nook, provided ample storage for pantry items and dishes, essential for entertaining large groups. The curved theme was extended to the hardware, with Park Studio handles adorning both the kitchen cupboards and bedroom closets, ensuring a cohesive design language throughout the home. #BeachHouse #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #CurvedDesign #SpacePlanning #CoastalDecor #StorageSolutions #JessDiabStudio #VenturaHome