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Two Pool Houses, Two Personalities: Farm Vernacular Meets Greek Revival

Pool houses are perfect for experimenting with regional design. New York architect James Crisp demonstrates with two markedly different examples—both functional, both thoughtfully related to their main houses and local architecture.

Farm-Influenced Pool House in the Berkshires

"A simple accessory building, not overly complicated," says Crisp. Interior includes kitchenette, changing room, and full bath—convenient since the main house sits 100 yards away. Crossbuck details recall historic hayloft doors. Board-and-batten siding on outbuildings versus clapboard on the main house establishes hierarchy. Chinese granite paving unifies the property.

An outdoor shower offers a second rinse spot. A covered gathering area with local stone fireplace and simple columns provides post-swim lounging. The pool house backs to an old oak and woods. A separate guest house/garage mirrors the style—board-and-batten, crossbucks, painted metal roof. "Vernacular details give it more flavor than copying a direct style," Crisp notes.

Greek Revival Pool House in Litchfield County, CT

This formal accessory building draws from the property's Greek Revival main house. Proportions are key: "columns strong but not overly large." Pergola lines align with the soffit underside, adding outdoor wings without overwhelming scale. A triangular window—common in area Greek Revivals but usually smaller and in attics—becomes a unique daylighting feature.

The large family gathering space features fold-out couches and flexible built-ins for linens, dishes, games. Bluestone flooring continues from family room to patios, reinforcing indoor-outdoor connection. Transoms over French doors flood the soaring ceiling and exposed beams with light. Large hanging lanterns match the scale.

A kitchenette grants guest independence. French doors replace windows almost everywhere to capture spectacular views. The pool house nestles into a hill overlooking a large pond and stone-walled gardens—private, self-contained, and perfectly sited.