Rooke Pool House

When our clients initially outlined their project, they presented a long-nurtured vision: a comprehensive overhaul of their backyard space, encompassing the creation of a Guest House, a Swimming Pool, and versatile outdoor areas for entertainment and relaxation.
The Guest House needed to serve as a year-round facility, functioning as a pool house in warmer seasons and guest accommodations during the rest of the year. Furthermore, an emphasis was placed on optimizing energy efficiency to minimize reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems.

A paramount challenge in this endeavor was the management of the sloped topography while devising an efficient layout for the guest house and pool. The design directive was clear and concise, focusing on a strategy that seamlessly harmonized with the abundant natural vegetation in the backyard. The aesthetic goal was simplicity, meaningful modernity, and enduring quality.

The Solution:

Our design solution relied on locally sourced materials, prominently limestone and wood, to seamlessly integrate with the surrounding environment. Expansive glass partitions reinforced the connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces, while the sloped roof added a dramatic dimension to the overall composition.
The guest house's layout was designed for functionality and flexibility, featuring a central entertainment area with a kitchen and dining space, a private guest bedroom with an adjacent private washroom, and convenient access to a storage room for pool equipment and furniture.

Sustainability and energy efficiency were at the forefront of our design approach. The exterior wall assemblies boasted an R-30 insulation rating, with an R-60-rated roof for exceptional performance. The roof canopy was strategically configured to provide optimal shade in the summer and maximum solar exposure in the winter. Polished concrete flooring increased thermal mass, and operable windows on opposing walls facilitated cross ventilation.

The exterior spaces were thoughtfully divided into two distinct areas at varying elevations, creating diverse entertainment zones, and adeptly addressing the site's grading.

The culmination of our efforts is an enduring architectural expression, one that has gracefully transformed a backyard into a secluded and welcoming sanctuary.