Pool Pavilion

Text by Nate Berg

For a poolside pavilion in the backyard of a private residence in San Antonio, local firm Poteet Architects erased all but the faintest barrier between indoors and out. Tucked in the backyard of a remodeled historic 19th century home, the rectangular pavilion is essentially a tricked out cedar-framed porch covered in a fine bronze screen. The wind breezes in and the bugs stay out.

Built by Refined General Contractors, the pavilion is situated perpendicular to the pool, and cantilevers 2 feet out over the deep end. One panel of the long screen wall facing the pool is actually a sliding door that opens for easy access to the water. Doors on either end offer dry options for stepping out to the pool, the nearby spa, or the outdoor shower.

Covering just 630 square feet, the pavilion features flexible lounge seating, a wet bar with barstools, and a small kitchen. Ceiling fans keep the air moving when it’s hot, and a wood-burning fireplace warms the space on cool evenings. In a simple, compact layout, the room provides the best in outdoor living, day or night, with all the creature comforts of being indoors.

“The simplicity of this structure works well. It’s engaging, and its concept is clear. The portions are nice. Overall, it’s a very successful project.”
— Juror Janet Bloomberg

Architect: Poteet ArchitectsBuilder: Refined General Contractors
Size: 630 square feet
Cost: $119 per square foot