JIMMY CRISP CRISP ARCHITECTS

When in need of an escape from the hustle and bustle of their home in New York, the Will family retreats to their picturesque home in the Berkshires, complete with a new guest house and pool designed by Crisp Architects in Millbrook, NY. Looking for an oasis at the property, the family brought in Jimmy Crisp and his team, and now spend more time there than in their actual home—a sure sign that their new space is a success.

Composed of Crisp Architects and Greylock Design, the design team aimed to create a structure and space that were simple and classic, using materials that would stand the test of time. Jimmy notes that the meticulousness of the contractor, who did a lot of the work himself, was a major contributor to the outcome of the project.

Set upon a hill, slightly above the home, the guest house and pool are accessed via a subtly landscaped path, delivering the visitor to a colorful landscape surrounding the guest home and pool. Bluestone steps and pavers lead the way through a mahogany and wire fence that almost disappears within the plantings. The fence, which will naturally gray out, works perfectly with the palette of the pool space and encloses the entirety of the pool space, providing safety for little ones and a barrier to active wildlife that may want to feast on the tasty landscape.

The thoughtful placement of the pool house and pool on the hill offers panoramic views of the Berkshires from all the sun loungers surrounding the pool, and even from the elevated hot tub nestled in the corner. While summertime is naturally their active season, the Will family knew they wanted to use this space year-round in some capacity, and it was important that the design supported this. Jimmy and his team integrated creative design solutions and turned the space into a true destination, making the space a fixture in the family’s home life.

In the wintertime, a sauna and hot tub paired with an indoor pool table and lounge still beckon the family to head up for a fun afternoon. For the spring and fall, when the bugs come out to ruin a good time, Jimmy’s team used a creative strategy that had given them past success: phantom screens. Tucked into the beams between the columns that surround the three-season lounge space are retractable bug screens. Rolling down much like window shades, these screens offer views but keep out unwanted pests.

Crisp Architects

Jimmy Crisp

16 Washington Avenue

Millbrook, NY 12545

845.677.8256 crisparchitects.com