[villagetinker]

We did a birdcage also, no pool as there is one 2 blocks away. We kept the hot tub on the lanai, as it was out of the way, and we can use it when it is raining if we want to, not during lightning storms.
As for the birdcage, we had electrical receptacles installed with the concrete pad, this avoids cords across walk ways, for fountains, lights, etc. We also opted for 50% sun reduction screening in the roof area of the birdcage, this makes a big difference during the summer. If you have a pet, we have a cat, we also opted for pet screen in the lowest sections of the birdcage, and then had the same screening installed in the lanai. Pay attention to drainage in the birdcage, we had additional drains installed with the original concrete pad, but had to have more installed in the aluminum frame. We also took lawn paint, painted the outline of the new birdcage on the lawn, and confirmed the location of doors etc.
I agree with the comments above, this is another room, and very useful.