In modern architecture, the fusion of indoor and outdoor spaces defines an evolving trend that celebrates connection, functionality, and design. Architect Alison Hall’s pool house project in Charlotte, North Carolina, embodies this vision, earning the prestigious Nana Gold Award in the Pool House category of the 2024 NanaAwards Project and Design Competition. This innovative space showcases the best of modern living, offering a versatile retreat for year-round enjoyment.
Designing for Year-Round Functionality
The homeowners envisioned a cabana separate from their main house that would serve as a dedicated destination for family gatherings and relaxation. Alison Hall, in collaboration with a talented team of builders and designers, brought this vision to life. The resulting poolside cabana balances form and function, offering a cozy yet luxurious space that seamlessly connects to the outdoors.
“The interior space itself isn’t huge,” explained Hall, “but when the NanaWall is fully opened, the inside and outside spaces act as one, which is exactly what we wanted.”
Fusing Aesthetics with Performance
What truly sets this cabana apart is the innovative use of a five-panel NanaWall system. Standing at an impressive eight feet tall, the glass walls open completely to connect the lounge with the poolside patio, creating a harmonious indoor-outdoor living experience. The NanaWall system is more than a visual statement—it’s a high-performance solution designed for comfort and durability.
The double-glazed panels and Low E coating ensure the cabana remains thermally comfortable during colder months, while the Low Profile Saddle Sill enhances weather resistance and provides a smooth, unobstructed transition between spaces. This flexibility allows the cabana to adapt effortlessly to changing seasons, functioning as an enclosed retreat in inclement weather or an open, airy space during warmer days.
Collaboration Across Disciplines
The success of the Charlotte Pool Cabana reflects the expertise of a collaborative team:
- Construction: GC Design + Build
- Interior Design: Crystal Nagel Designs
- Pool Design and Installation: Tideline Pools
- Engineering: IDE Structural Engineers
- Styling and Integration Consulting: Kareena Gray
Reflecting Modern Living Trends
This project exemplifies a broader movement in architecture toward multi-functional spaces that enhance how people live and interact with their environments. As urban living becomes denser, maximizing every square foot is paramount. The Charlotte Pool Cabana fulfills this need by offering a versatile, design-forward solution that blends practicality with luxury.
Earning the Nana Gold Award
Winning the prestigious Nana Gold Award in the Pool House category is a testament to Alison Hall’s vision and execution. Reflecting on the achievement, Hall shared, “We loved using the NanaWall because it allowed us to create a space that truly felt expansive. When entertaining large groups, the NanaWall opens completely, making the cabana an extension of the outdoors.”
This recognition underscores the project’s success in merging architectural elegance with practical functionality, cementing its place as a standout in modern design.
Pushing the Boundaries of Design
The 2024 NanaAwards celebrate projects like the Charlotte Pool Cabana that redefine the possibilities of architectural spaces. As NanaWall continues to lead the industry in operable glass wall systems, projects like this one showcase how thoughtful design and innovative products can transform the way people experience their homes.
Explore all the 2024 NanaAward-winning projects.
See more award-winning outdoor living designs.
