It wasn’t until the first century B.C. that the Romans invented swimming pools, originally used for bathing and seen as a sacred communal activity by Roman society. As time went on, swimming pools were developed for recreational purposes and little huts built from stone, tile and straw started popping up; serving as dressing rooms for people to change into swimsuits. The Latin word for hut was ‘capanna,’ from which the Spanish word, ‘cabaña,’ was derived and in English, we now call these huts —cabanas. 

Since their introduction years ago, the swimming pool has ascended to fame and luxury cabanas have become a hotel necessity for travelers everywhere; it’s even a must in residential communities. With designer touches and sophisticated new amenities like LCD screens, lounge seating, private kitchenettes and more, cabanas are once again redefining the traditional term and taking poolside leisure to the next level.

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Oceana Bal Harbour: Oceana Bal Harbour, the masterful 240-unit luxury condominium, takes tropical pool side vibes to the next level with its climate-controlled, designer cabanas and on-demand poolside service by the residents-only restaurant, Ballerina, run by Starr Catering to deliver gourmet bites and craft drinks to residents. The expansive, Piero Lissoni-designed poolside retreats are outfitted with LCD screens, lounge seating, private kitchenettes and bathrooms, bringing the outdoors in with sea breezes and views of sun-drenched pool deck. Cabanas are available to residents upon availability and can be reserved in advanced via the Oceana Bal Harbour mobile app. Residences start at $3 million to $33 million.

 

Nine on the Hudson: Residents at Nine on the Hudson (Nine), K. Hovnanian Homes’ premier 278-unit condo building in West New York, NJ, can easily enjoy jaw-dropping views of NYC’s iconic skyline while relaxing in a private cabana surrounded by fire-pits and outdoor heaters, located on the communal rooftop lounge that is part of the 31,655 square feet of outdoor and indoor amenity space. Those living in Nine’s $8 million dollar penthouse can also enjoy a private rooftop sanctuary that celebrates an oasis-style living, with a covered cabana area, fire pits and a beautiful garden. 

 

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Miami Beach: Piero Lissoni’s first full-scale residential project in the US, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Miami Beach, will feature an private, residents-only half-acre rooftop pool deck with 4 Lissoni-designed private cabanas (a first for the renown Italian architect and designer!). The exclusive cabanas (150 sq. ft. each), will be equipped with double beds overlooking the lush gardens and soothing waters of Surprise lake and will be reserved through the concierge.

 

Three Hundred Collins: South Beach, Miami: This 5-story, 19-unit boutique property is situated in the exclusive SoFi neighborhood of South Beach. Designed by New York City’s designer for the 1% Thomas Juul-Hansen, the property offers exclusive amenities such as a 75-foot saltwater rooftop pool and hot tub, beach concierge services and white cushioned cabanas with panoramic views. Residences are priced between $1.7 million to $9 million and slated for completion late Spring 2018

 

1000M: Residents at 1000M, the ultra-luxury condominium tower coming to Chicago, will be able to soak up the sun in style this summer. Outside by the 52-foot resort-style swimming pool will be private owners’ cabanas with privacy drapes and media screens, chaise sun loungers, and bistro-style umbrella seating.