The Pool House
A refined simplicity houses a range of functions
This pool house interior design project transformed a new build into a calm and sophisticated space which already feels lived in. The client wanted interiors which feel grown up but meet the needs of family life, reflecting their love of mid century design and complimenting their adjoining Arts and Crafts property. Incorporating some inherited family furnishings was key in the designs.
The building had two levels, a ground floor bar and seating area and a basement, accessed by an external staircase, with a gym, shower room and plant room. All designs have challenges and in this project the principal ones were the need to incorporate a huge range of functions into the relatively small spaces and the fact that the basement level had no natural light or ventilation.
In the basement gym we drew inspiration from the yacht again, this time thinking of its interior; a compact space where everything has its place. A mirrored wall, partial wall panelling and a dropped ceiling detail create an expansive feel in what is actually quite a small space, while also housing complex lighting and ventilation systems. A faux window at high level tricks the eye into thinking it is real. Cork flooring softens and insulates and the bespoke joinery ensures everything stays tidy,. The change bench with storage for guests is topped with a striped cushion that breaks the formality of the space and links to the tiles beyond.
In the shower room, playful striped tiles in the clients favourite blue colour are topped with a walnut trim, referencing the panelling upstairs in height and form. Achieving a luxury feel within the small space was essential, and the layout incorporates a large walk in shower, which also concealed the loo for privacy. Designing a bespoke stepped vanity allowed us to fit more into the narrow space, including a laundry basket and space for fresh towels for guests.
We chose to use Gemma as she clearly understood the result that we wanted to achieve and we seemed to be on the same page when it came to design. She took what was quite a broad brief and narrowed it down to a coherent overarching vision. She then supported us throughout the decision-making process, providing a sensible number of options for us to choose from in each instance. The completed project provides everything we wanted, both from a functional and a design perspective.
Gemma liaised really well with our builders, ensuring that nothing slipped through the gap in the construction phase. She provided detailed design drawings to the builders, sourced and procured furniture and fittings and picked up on details we wouldn’t even have considered, which added a huge amount of value. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending Gemma; she was great to work with.”
