Exploring A Stunning Prefab Pool House in Joshua Tree

For filmmaker, artist, and self-proclaimed “architecture nerd” Tao Ruspoli, owning a Quonset hut had been a long-time dream.

His six-acre compound in Joshua Tree, known for hosting Airbnb guests, retreats, and creative gatherings, needed a unique communal space near his sleek 80-foot-long swimming pool. A prefabricated pool house turned out to be the perfect solution.

Why a prefab Quonset pool house kit?

“I’ve always loved Quonset huts and dreamed of having one or making one,” Tao explains. “I’ve done several remodels, but I had never built something from the ground up. The idea of both the budget and the time required was always daunting. That’s why I was so excited about the prefab aspect.”

• Simple, DIY Construction: Tao worked with a contractor who, despite not being familiar with Quonset-style buildings, was able to build the 40’W X 20’H X 32’L Q-Model in a matter of a couple of weeks 
• Custom Design Capable: After teaming up with his friend, architect Anna Meloyan, they designed custom endwalls with openings on each side, steel siding on the exterior, and plywood veneer on the interior to create the feel of a modern prefab pool house.
• Dual-Purpose Pool House: In addition to having a place where folks can rinse off after taking a dip in the pool, the building’s 100 percent usable space allows for extra room to host parties and overnight guests.

A Quonset-style prefab pool house checked all of Tao’s boxes, it was easier to build than other options, could be as large as he needed, and allowed him to design his own endwalls.

Design That Stands Out

“The Quonset hut is permitted as a workshop, not a living space, so it includes a bathroom and a utility sink but no bedroom. It’s a fabulous space.”

Tao said some of the most breathtaking aspects are how the prefab pool house interacts with its desert surroundings:

• Geometric Design: “I love the unusual geometry from the outside, and the interior is so vast and beautiful—it almost feels like a church.”

• Pool as Focal Point: “A friend pointed out that the reflection in the pool creates a full circle, and it’s absolutely stunning.”
• Landscape & Structure Balance: “Another architect friend said the Quonset hut gives the pool an architectural context it didn’t have before.”
• Minimalist Endwalls:  ”We did the endwalls very simple, with on the outside, and and now it’s just a fabulous space.”

Beyond the Build: SteelMaster’s Support

Tao was especially impressed with SteelMaster’s customer service, particularly the ongoing support he received from his representative, B2C Division Director Noah Taylor. Even after the sale, Noah continued to check in, offering guidance and answering any questions Tao and his contractors had along the way.

“Noah [Taylor] was amazing—he didn’t just disappear after the sale. He checked in multiple times to see how things were going, which really showed me that SteelMaster cares about what happens to their buildings.”

An Iconic Property Addition

As Tao continues to develop his property, his prefabricated pool house has become a key part of its artistic and communal spirit.

“I think this building is going to become an icon of my property. I couldn’t be more proud of it,” he said. “I used to joke that if I’m remembered for anything in 500 years, it’ll be the pool. And now I think it’s the pool and the Quonset hut together.”

Tao’s prefab pool house is more than a structure—it’s a statement piece that matches the beauty of Joshua Tree’s desert landscape.