This pool house in the Catskills hides a unique twist – take a look inside

This spectacular double height pool house in upstate New York gives a unique answer to the question of how to bring the outdoor in. It completely redefines what a pool house is, from generic and merely functional to whimsical and architecturally inventive. It is an exquisite interpretation of a building immersed in its surrounding woodland and mountain landscape.

(Image credit: Reto Guntli)

The 'Lazy Bear Pool House' is located in Old Chatham, NY with views of the Catskills Mountains designed by architecture & interior design firm BarlisWedlick. It actually is a 2,750-square-foot extension of its property’s main home, accessible by a passageway constructed partially underground.

(Image credit: Reto Guntli)

Built with Passive House principles, the larger-than-life pool house features 18-foot-tall triple-glazed windows constructed along the pool’s west side to maximize sunlight. The underground passageway also allows an airtight entry, which creates an 88-degree indoor temperature throughout all seasons. 

Ventilation from the ceiling prevents the glass from fogging up from the warm climate. The pool itself is 54 feet long.

(Image credit: Reto Guntli)

BarlisWedlick intentionally designed the pool house in a different architectural style than the main house, noting that because of its unique size, a matching style would have compromised its proportions. Over time, the agricultural-style structure with a standing-seam gabled roof and two-toned board-and-batten siding will appear to look ‘older’ than the main house – an attractively aged look that will blend in with the surrounding landscape. 

(Image credit: Reto Guntli)

But perhaps it's less the impressive technical details that are so captivating about this pool house and more its idiosyncratic interior design. Four tree-trunk columns run the length of the pool anchoring the structure’s nature-centric look, while white birch logs cover the walls. 

The overall effect is three-dimensional and liberating – swimming in this pool must be the closest one can get to wildwood swimming without having to brace cold water.

(Image credit: Reto Guntli)

There are luxurious contemporary touches, too, that soften the rustic look. A leaf-patterned Paul Frankl upholstered sofa and soft-shade side lighting add touches of tropical hotel escapism. This pool house is unique in a way that manages to appeal to everyone.