A Modern Pool Pavilion on a Steep Hill
Posted by Derek Leavitt on Sun, Jan 25, 2009 @ 07:12 AM
The Willow Glen Pool Pavilion was just added to the projects section of our website. Here's a bit about our design approach to this unique project:
The Slope
When a successful young professional came to Modative
about adding a pool and pool house to his property in the Hollywood
Hills, we thought it was a pretty straight forward request. That was,
of course, until we saw the property in person.The existing modern home
which sat at street level was immediately followed by a steep 45 degree
downslope. As a site for a pool, it was not ideal, but as we enjoy a
good challenge; we saw this as an opportunity to design a dynamic
solution that would provide the client's request for valuable outdoor
space in an unlikely place.
Blending In
The
client had few requests, but one was that the pool pavilion be pretty
well hidden from the house above. Our solution was to landscape the
roof having it appear as an extension of the sloping side. This green
roof not only helps disguise the building from above, but reduces
runoff, heat island effect, and provides insulation to keep the
pavilion cool in summer months.
Here Comes the Sun
The steep slope also provided difficult solar challenges. To discover the optimal location for the pool, Modative
did thorough computer solar simulations with numerous schemes,
eventually settling on a pool and deck location that get the most sun
possible.
A Special Place
The pool is designed
with an infinity edge that floats over the drop off allowing for
uninterrupted views from the dramatic hillside location. The main space
of the pool pavilion is designed for flexibility. Multi-track sliding
doors pull back at the corner, opening up the room to the outdoors. The
pavilion's wood-clad bathroom was given equal attention. Accessed via
stepping pads in the pool, the bathroom also takes in the view from
it's oversize shower.
A Vertical Journey
Because
of the intensity of the slope, the pool was located several flights of
stairs below the house. Resting points, viewing platforms and changes
in direction help compensate for the long vertical journey from the
house down to the pool. The main view point along the stair, a
projecting landing, was envisioned to double as a DJ booth for parties.
Visit the Willow Glen Pool Pavilion project page