For a couple In Palm Beach, FL, experiencing the rejuvenation that comes from a luxurious spa visit was an essential part of life. But why go to a spa when you can have one in your own backyard? That was the question these emptynesters posed to themselves and, eventually, Chicagobased Searl Lamaster Howe Architects, when they hired the firm to design a two-story cabana alongside their traditionalstyle home, which was also extensively renovated by the architects. Their requests for the addition Included services for the outdoor pool nearby, a professional spa and a dance/workout studio above. The architectural firm, In turn, delivered a poolside cabana that provides a private getaway for rest and relaxation.
In the design of any home spa, the two most important qualities to have are privacy and tranquility. With this in mind, Searl Lamaster Howe Architects began the project with the conception of the cabana's floor plan. The first floor is configured to ensure that poolside activities do not disturb anyone inside the spa. Consequently, the changing room, flanked by a steam shower and a powder room, is situated at the entrance to the pool, where the wet bar is also located, while the spa is tucked in the back. Although ft shares the powder room wfth the poof, the spa has its own two separate entrances. "It was challenging creating such a private space next to the pool," said Pamela Lamaster-Mlllett, aia, partner at Searl Lamaster Howe Architects.
With the floor plan in place, the architects took additional steps to ensure a serene environment. Windows installed for ventilation are outfitted with shutters for privacy when the spa Is In use, and slotted windows of blue frosted glass at ground level provide privacy and evoke the water theme of the pool. "When you're in the spa during the day, you get this feeling that you're in the water." said Linda Searl, faia, partner at Searl Lamaster Howe Architects. "When someone comes In, they feel like they can relax right away from everything going on outside."
PERSONAL TREATMENT
Having worked with the couple on several other homes, Searl Lamaster Howe Architects understood what their clients desired In their new spa. "The husband was a former CEO of U.S. Robotics, and the wife had previously managed a spa, in which she performed massage therapy and hydrotherapy," said Lamaster-Millett. Familiar with massage therapy equipment, the couple requested professional-grade equipment such as a massage table, a hydro tub and a Vichy shower, which features several showerheads above a cushioned wet table that is used for body treatments, like a salt scrub or body wrap.
A fully functional home spa requires additional features, the most Important of which is having easy access to a shower. The firm created two adjoining rooms to the spa - one with a private shower and the other with laundry facilities for easy cleanup of towels. The spa also has a caddy for warming towels and two separate sinks for washing hands and mixing treatments. "We learned a lot about spas designing this project," said Searl. "It was a lot like designing a commercial spa."
BARE ESSENTIALS
Once the equipment was chosen, the next step was finding materials that would support the function of the spa. The biggest necessity for the 410-sq.-ft. space was a surface that could withstand water and be hosed down after use for easy cleaning. Slip-resistant natural slate, selected for the floor, also lines the lower half of the walls, while the upper half is paneled in rich mahogany. The clients requested two large drains in the floor on both sides of the Vichy shower for adequate draining. "The whole room is like one big shower," said Searl.
The architects also found materials for the cabana to complement the two-story, Spanish Colonial-style home. Stucco corners establish a relationship between the cabana and the home's stucco. Inspired by its location within the lush landscape, Searl and Lamaster-Millet strived to bring the outdoors inside. Mahogany siding clads the walls, while doors and shutters are flushed with the siding to form a smooth box. "The combination of materials and details makes an elegant transition from the formal house to the relaxing pool area," said Searl.
