You’ve got your dream pool, or a plan for one. Now, do you have an Ignite builder create a custom pool cabana or a custom pool house?
Which would best suit how you live outdoors?
Here’s how to choose which one reflects real-life use, style and space.
First, What’s the Difference Between a Cabana and a Pool House?
A cabana is a semi-enclosed, often three-sided structure with a roof that is built for comfortable lounging, shade and general shelter. They also often include features like curtains, screens or half-walls, giving off a bright, breezy, resort-style aesthetic and design.
Alternatively, a pool house is fully enclosed, allowing for improved year-round use. They commonly feature added amenities such as bathrooms, change rooms, kitchenettes, beverage bars or storage.
Think of a mini guest house that’s integrated seamlessly with your landscape.
Which Structure Matches Your Outdoor Lifestyle & Activities?
If you dream of airy relaxation and casual enjoyment of your poolside area, you’re likely to feel fulfilled by a custom cabana build.
Cabanas are wonderful for leisurely lounging, jumping into some nearby shade after a dip and storing basic essentials without having to wander back through the house.
If you require year-round comfort, storage and other amenities, a pool house is far more ideal. These structures allow for easy storage of family and guest towels, kitchenette-style entertainment and dining, plus clothing changes and other needs that call for personal privacy.
What to Expect with Budgets, Maintenance and Permits
Versus a cabana, a pool house requires a larger investment as well as submissions for permits, especially if they’re to have utility integrations such as electrical, HVAC or plumbing. Ongoing maintenance may also be more involved, much like the upkeep of a guest room or rental.
In contrast, cabanas come with less premium costs, despite their upscale benefits and aesthetic. Plus, as most cabanas are light on utilities, if any, permit requirements are far lighter and expedited. Any maintenance is minimal thanks to their open-air design and simple uses.
Property Value & Sale Considerations
Both a custom pool cabana and a pool house can add different value to your property in fiscal and desirability categories.
Cabanas increase emotional connection to, and quality perception of, a property while pool houses increase (re)sale appeal and perceived worth as they’re considered an added living space with home/room-like functionalities.
Choose Your Poolside Adventure
Choose a Cabana if you want:
- A shaded, open-air lounge area with resort-style vibes
- Minimal installation time, lower maintenance, and flexible layout
- A cost-effective but stylish solution that enhances poolside living
Choose a Pool House if you want:
- An enclosed space for changing, storage, or gathering
- Year-round usability with utilities and weather protection
- A mini house-like structure that complements your home’s design
Talk to our team about which is right for you, or when we can get started on your custom pool area build, with a complimentary consultation – Contact Ignite today.
Related Services: Pool House, Pergola and Cabana Builders
