Poolside Perfection

For Brandon and Ali, expanding their Florida home was always about creating more room for their family of five to live, gather, and enjoy time together. Their vision came to life with a two-story addition that includes a pool cabana on the main level, overlooking their backyard oasis.

The road to completion, however, was not without challenges. During construction, the home’s kitchen was unusable, prompting the family to use their laundry room as a temporary kitchen for five months. Just as the project was nearing the finish line, their contractor went out of business. Determined to see their vision through, Brandon stepped in and personally took over completing the remaining work, a true labor of love for his family.

At the heart of the finished pool cabana is a custom ActivWall Gas Strut Window, designed to make entertaining effortless. Measuring 96″ wide by 54.75″ high, the outswing window is finished in a sleek black powder coat and installed with no sill for a clean, modern look. The countertop extends seamlessly through the opening, creating an indoor-outdoor bar that invites connection. Three barstools line the exterior for poolside guests, while two stools inside keep the host part of the conversation. 

Functionality was just as important as style. A nearby sink makes food prep and cleanup easy, while a commercial nugget ice maker tucked under the counter ensures there’s always ice on hand for meals, parties, and impromptu gatherings. Whether it’s a casual afternoon snack or a weekend celebration, the space is designed to keep everything, and everyone, within reach. 

Now that the construction phase of the project is complete, the pool cabana has become one of Ali and Brandon’s favorite places in the home. With the Gas Strut Window open, they can prepare snacks and meals while watching the children play in the backyard, splash in the modern pool with its cascading waterfall, or practice their putting on the surrounding putt-putt course. The window creates a natural connection between indoors and out, making supervision easy and family time even more enjoyable.

This Florida home is a perfect example of how a thoughtfully designed space can bring together functionality, flexibility, and the joy of indoor-outdoor living.

Ready to create a space like this in your own home? Request a quote today to learn how an ActivWall Gas Strut Window can elevate your next project.