DC clients with an older, stucco-and-brick home were unhappy with its dated pool house, which was visually disconnected from the aesthetic of their vintage abode and in need of modern appointments. “The owners wanted the existing pool house replaced by a new one with guest quarters,” explains Cathy Purple Cherry of Purple Cherry Architects, who spearheaded the project. “They asked for a structure that would relate to the architecture of the 100-year-old home while accommodating visiting family and serving as an entertainment space.” The clients opted to keep the grotto-like pool but tapped Campion Hruby Landscape Architects to update it and improve the surrounding landscape.

The new pool house “was inspired by the materials and language of the residence,” recounts Purple Cherry, who specified stucco, natural stone and slate roof tiles to coordinate with the house. Interior spaces include a guest suite; a powder room that accesses the pool; and a sitting/dining area and wet bar. A pergola on the bluestone patio creates a shady spot for lounging or dining al fresco poolside.