Malvern Pool House by Klas Hyllén Architecture: A Tranquil Retreat in Rural Warwickshire

The Malvern Pool House, designed by Klas Hyllén Architecture, is a contemporary yet timeless addition to an Arts & Crafts-inspired residence in rural Warwickshire, United Kingdom. This architectural masterpiece harmoniously integrates with the landscape, offering a luxurious swimming pool and wellness retreat with breathtaking views of the Malvern Hills.

Architectural Concept & Design

Crafted from clay brick, the minimalist yet materially rich structure consists of two interconnecting volumes. The cathedral-like diagrid ceiling appears to float above the pool, enhancing the sense of openness. A nine-meter-long skylight bathes the space in natural light during the day, while at night, it offers a celestial view of the stars. The organic mineral scent emanating from the interaction of water with the clay brick adds to the immersive sensory experience.

Seamless Integration with Nature

Positioned strategically to blend with its natural surroundings, the primary volume (63m²) houses a 1.4-meter-deep pool that extends visually to the perimeter walls, creating an illusion of water seamlessly merging with the landscape. A south-facing panoramic window further enhances the indoor-outdoor connection, reinforcing the home's relationship with its environment. The secondary volume (38m²), featuring a mono-pitch roof, encloses essential functions such as showers, changing rooms, and a meditation space, while also defining a sheltered rectilinear farm courtyard to the north.

Thoughtful Functionality & Layout

The architectural composition is carefully structured for comfort and relaxation. Between the two main volumes lies a 32m² relaxation zone, unifying the spaces. Below, a basement plant room, overflow tank, and a 68m² wine cellar are neatly tucked away. Meanwhile, the existing home has been transformed with a repurposed snooker room, now serving as a new games room and gym (58m²).

Innovative Engineering & Sustainability

Despite its deceptively simple structure, Malvern Pool House incorporates advanced engineering solutions. All mechanical services are discreetly integrated beneath the pool, while a hidden ventilation system within the steel ring beam ensures optimal air circulation. Sustainability is at the core of the design, featuring a super-insulated airtight structure with 350mm of insulation in the roof, 300mm in the walls, and 200mm in the ground, significantly reducing heat loss and energy consumption. The combination of masonry and treated timber ensures long-term durability in the humid pool environment.

A Multi-Sensory Experience

According to Klas Hyllén, the project is designed to be a sensory journey:

"We think it is visually stunning, but the experience comes to life in person—it's about all the senses. The acoustics, temperature, tactility, and even the scent of water on brick create an almost monastic atmosphere. The air handling unit keeps the temperature at a comfortable 29 degrees Celsius with humidity at 55%, allowing for a tranquil and immersive retreat. And of course, there's nothing quite like a night swim under the stars."

The Malvern Pool House is a masterclass in architectural craftsmanship, where design, nature, and technology converge to create an unparalleled sanctuary. A seamless blend of modern aesthetics, sustainability, and sensory engagement, this project is a testament to Klas Hyllén Architecture's commitment to innovative and holistic design.

All Photographs are works of Hide Film for Klas Hyllén Architecture