When movie stars started having private pools build at their Hollywood estates back in the 1930s or so, the pool area usually included a poolside structure just a few feet from the pool. Many of these pool houses were built to echo the architecture of the main residence. The primary purpose for a pool house was to have a "room" near the pool in which to change in and out of swimsuits, go to the bathroom, shower, rest, have a beverage and entertain friends or family in private.

This brings to mind films we've all seen where characters go into the pool house -- a knowing, elbowing, winking symbol for a romp. Jennifer Jason-Leigh in Fast Times at Ridgemont High comes to mind.

Regardless of the reason pool houses may have been built, they still serve a purpose. A pool house can be a hideaway, a sort of outdoor office (with a roof and walls), a clubhouse and sleepover room for tweens -- whatever you desire.

Pool houses are also attractive ways of harboring pool and spa equipment, which is often an unsightly elephant in the backyard.

If you plan to build a pool house in your backyard, check into your city's zoning requirements, whether it's a prefab storage shed you ordered online or a little dream house with a guest room, wet bar and spa.

While gazebos and cabanas usually aren't built with bathrooms, showers, or private changing areas, they can serve the same purpose as a pool house for a lot less cost.