Architectural Design | Interior Architectural Design | Interior Design | Construction Administration

800 SF – New Accessory Building in Old Westbury, NY

The pool house was initially conceived as a modest, seasonal structure—intended for summer use and approached with some hesitation, as the homeowners were still uncertain whether the property itself would be a long-term home. Master planned as part of the site and garden, it was envisioned as a future addition rather than an immediate necessity.

As the design of the landscape progressed and the family’s connection to the property deepened—particularly through their engagement with the garden—the pool house began to take on greater significance. As its scale and proportions became clearer during the design phase, the decision was made to fully condition the structure and transform it into a year-round space. Completed in 2019, just before the pandemic, this shift proved to be one of the most impactful decisions of the entire project.

During the months that followed, the pool house adapted seamlessly to new ways of living. It became a dedicated home office, offering quiet separation from the main residence while remaining immersed in the landscape. Over time, it evolved into the family’s favorite space—a place to work, cook, gather, and retreat.

The two-story structure is organized as a generous open volume filled with natural light. A mezzanine level provides sleeping quarters, while the main level includes a kitchenette, sitting and dining areas, and a full bathroom, allowing the space to function independently throughout the year. Large openings on one side connect directly to the pool patio, while the opposite façade opens to a green field and garden-facing patio, reinforcing a strong indoor-outdoor relationship and framing expansive views.

Bathed in sunlight and surrounded by nature, the pool house blurs the boundaries between leisure and productivity, indoor and outdoor living. What began as a seasonal amenity ultimately became an essential part of daily life—an architectural response to evolving needs, unexpected moments, and the enduring value of thoughtful design.