Embed Size (px)
DESCRIPTION
REALlife is a Caribbean Luxury Lifestyle, Property and Design Magazine.
Citation preview
RL
JULIO BAUTISTAA native of the Dominican Republic, Julio Bautista hasover 15 years experience working as a professionalcivil engineer, project director and constructionmanager. Currently managing a residential project inAnguilla, Julio has been involved in developments allaround the Caribbean including; Jamaica, St. Lucia,St. Kitts & Nevis and the Dominican Republic. Learnmore about him on page 59.
MARGARET GAJEKMargaret’s interest in nature and architecture beganfrom an early age. Later, having graduated in ArtHistory, she worked as a researcher, cataloguingheritage architectural treasures and writing articleson the subject, whilst educating herself inarchitecture, gardening and exotic plants which hassent her travelling to various parts of the world.Together with Derek Galon – photographer and
husband – she runs Ozone Zone Books. Margaret shares her passion forthe Kalinago Tribe with us on page 64.
LISA-ANN HURLSTON-MCKENZIEInfluenced by both Caribbean natural beauty andCanadian wilderness, it is no wonder Lisa chose to bean environmental and sustainability professional.During her 14 years with the Cayman IslandsDepartment of Environment she assisted homeownersand developers with incorporating sustainable designand green building practices. Whilst managing theSustainable Development Unit, she also devised
programmes to reduce energy, water and waste. A wannabe interior designerat heart, she revels in watching design shows and using her abode as a testcase. Lisa shares her green insights on page 70.
contributors’ biosJOHN CHRISTIEFormer rock star with the band Floating Boats, JohnChristie now follows in his granduncle’s footsteps asVP, Managing Director and leading agent for HGChristie Ltd. A native of The Bahamas, John balancesthe demands of the real estate market with a keenpassion for all things water-related. Learn more aboutJohn on page 76.
DEREK GALONWith a childhood spent under his father’s grandpiano, little wonder Derek’s life was destined for thearts. Ever passionate about music, he soon addedphotographer to his repertoire, using the familybathroom as a darkroom where he developed a rareability to capture the artistic feel of the moment.Later, he expanded into multimedia and graphicdesign, but never wavered from his two main loves.
Featured in award-winning coffee table books, Derek shares his artistic eyeon page 64 with images of the Kalinago Tribe.
SANDY URQUHART As an accomplished property development design co-ordinator, Sandy began his career in the UK workingwith the National Trust and English Heritage on therenovation of several historic buildings. Having movedto Grand Cayman 15 years ago, he has since workedon a diverse range of design projects, including thecreation of the region’s largest tropical nursery andCamana Bay, where he oversaw the design team
across all disciplines. Turn to page 52 where Sandy inspires us all tobecome sustainable gardeners.
t. 345.946.1220f. 345.946.1221www.mc2.com.ky
Vol 7, issue #3 Summer 2012
PUBLISHERmc2 LtdMelanie [email protected]
EDITORIALEditorKyle Fulton - [email protected]
Senior Writer Juliet Austin - [email protected]
Editorial & Production AssistantEmma Spencer-Smith - [email protected]
SALES & MARKETINGSales DirectorMelanie Roddam - [email protected]
Senior Account ExecutiveKimberley Bentley - [email protected]
Senior Account ExecutiveKennedy Carroll - [email protected]
DESIGN
Senior Designer
Mike Johnston - [email protected]
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Julio Bautista
John Christie
Margaret Gajek
Derek Galon
Lisa-Ann Hurlston-Mckenzie
Sandy Urquhart
WEBSITE
Website Administrator
Andrew Forster - [email protected]
DISTRIBUTION CONTACT
Kyle Fulton - [email protected]
ADVERTISE WITH USFor details of our extremely cost effective rates, or ifyou are interested in contributing editorial, pleasecontact our sales team.Email: [email protected] • Tel: 1 345.943.REALSkype: reallifecaribbean
www.reallifecaribbean.com
The views expressed within thispublication do not reflect those ofmc2 Ltd, REALlife magazine or theiremployees. mc2 Ltd. and REALlifemagazine accept no responsibility forthe views contained herein.
Published quarterly. © 2012 mc2 Ltd.
hello
Mike Johnston, Kyle Fulton, Melanie Roddam, Kennedy Carroll, Aida Cortes, Juliet Austin,Andrew Forster. Missing: Kimberley Bentley & Emma Spencer-Smith.Clothing by Island Company. www.islandcompany.com Photography by Heather Holt. www.heatherholt.com
ummer is here and the RL team is hot at work! Kyle isenjoying spending time with her second child andMelanie is now expecting her first! Prompting us to take a
closer look at making our lives environmentally friendly forfuture generations.
Within this ‘green’ issue, we take you inside Seagrape Houseoffering true Caribbean style with a radical green twist. Inviteyou to take a journey to our top picks for an organic-inspiredretreat in the Caribbean; discover wall décor with a conscience;indulge in Caribbean chocolate; un-cover ways to make yourhome ‘friendlier’ to the environment, and much more.
So what are you waiting for? Jump in!
S
contents16Seagrape HouseNestled in foliage on a golden stretchof Cayman coast is a house with aradical green twist.
28A Force of NatureAuthentic, hip and cutting-edge, one GrandCayman eco-abode starts a quiet revolutionfrom the comfort of its own couch.
32Style & SustainabilityGuy Bedarida, head designer, creative directorand style sage behind the internationallyrespected John Hardy jewellery brand – aman with green vision and a golden touch.
12Industry News
26Editor’s
Obsession
34 Wall DécorDesign-forwardand eco-friendlywallpapers.
36 Building on Belief
Bahamian community developer,Orjan Lindroth’s biologically driven
approach to sustainability championsthe ecology of commerce.
41Must-Haves
Go Green Gadgets.
75 Real Estate Section
80 Directory and Useful Numbers
43A Matter of TasteTrusty four taste-full resorts prove thatyou do not need to go to the ends ofthe earth to sate the modern palate.
66Living the Good LifeFour transcendent Caribbean eco-resortsshow us how to expand our hoizonswhilst shrinking our carbon footprints.
48Rolling in the DeepJason daCaires Taylor’s extraordinaryunderwater museums.
56CaribbeanChocolate:From Bean to Bar.
70 Real Report:
Getting Your Green on: Conducting a green home audit.
58
52How Does YourGarden Grow?The greenest garden designs.
62Must-Haves
Smug Rugs.
60 Cork ItThe bouyant reinvention of cork.
59 ProfileDominican Republic’s Developer Julio Bautista.
64Meet the KalinagoThe ancient Kalinago tribebrings intuitive earth-consciousdesign to modern-day Dominica.
A cosmopolitan getaway.
24HOUR S
inST. MARTIN/ST.MAARTEN
72 Green Building from the Ground UpThree eco-friendly building products.
RL
12 | INDUSTRY NEWS
KITE VILLAGE NEARS COMPLETIONTurks and CaicosKite Village, located on Long Bay, Providenciales, is soon to be a reality. Having spent years travelling America and the Caribbean and experiencingcold seas and crowded locations, this kite-boarding duo found their perfecthaven in Turks and Caicos. The alluring, turquoise sea and dependable windsalong the fabulous white sand beach afford perfect conditions for thetentative novice as well as the seasoned expert. In these warm, shallowwaters, kite-boarders of all levels progress more in one day than achievable ina week in less hospitable conditions. Their location found, the duoapproached Ron Shaw, designer of multiple award-winning conceptproperties, to turn their dream into a reality.
Kite Village comprises a unique beachfront villa and two guest cottages,whilst the beach has been developed to ensure safe kite launching andlanding. For those guests who prefer tamer pursuits, there is the pool,kayaking and opportunity to explore the endless beach.
For more information visit: www.caicosbeachvillage.com or [email protected]
THE PALMS, MIAMI KICKS OFF WEEKLYGARDEN TOUR AND TASTINGS United StatesThe Palms Hotel &Spa invites guests tojoin Chef Julie Fransevery Wednesday fora private tour andtasting of the Chef’sOrganic Garden.Chef Julie will identifyorganic produce,herbs and greens inthe garden andprepare a tastingutilising the seasonalproduce available.
The Palms Hotel & Spa has been recognised as one of only 14 Miami Beachhotels to achieve an honourable designation from the state of Florida’s GreenLodging Programme. The Green Lodging Programme awards Florida hotels,motels, resorts and bed & breakfasts that have demonstrated a commitmentto succeed in protecting Florida’s natural resources.
Criteria for achieving thisdistinguished award,include forming an internalgreen team with an‘environmental champion’leader, carefully managingwater and energyconservation, implementingat least two newenvironmental practicesduring each three yeardesignation and working toreduce the amount ofwaste produced.
For more information visit: www.thepalmshotel.com
FIRST PRIVATE RESIDENCES LAUNCHAT FREEDOM BAY IN ST LUCIASt. LuciaThe developer of the eco-luxury resort at Freedom Bay, St Luciaannounces the launch of ten limited edition, front line plots forthree- and four-bedroom super luxury villas. Uniquely locatedwithin a UNESCO World Heritage site at the foot of the iconicPitons, sustainability is key to the development.
Robert Whitton, the international eco-entrepreneur behind thedevelopment says: “It is exciting to be turning our carefullyconsidered plans into reality and launching the first home plots atFreedom Bay. The strict building restrictions applied within thePitons Management Area ensure there will be no overdevelopment and guarantee that property owners’ naturallybeautiful views will be protected forever.”
The property offering is split into two sections: the five star SixSenses Hotel and the super exclusive Private Residential Estate,the first phase of which is due for completion simultaneously withthe hotel opening in December 2013.
Each of the ten private residence plots is on average 20,000 sq.ft.in size, will have sea views, make the most of the natural light andventilation, be built using sustainable materials and includefeatures such as solar panels, water recycling and rainwatercollection systems.
For more information visit: www.freedombaystlucia.com
RL
FIDELITY BANK (CAYMAN) LTD. PARTNERS WITH SATINWOOD GATE DEVELOPERSCayman IslandsFor a limited time, Fidelity has partnered with the developers of Satinwood Gate to offer super lowmortgages and up to 100 percent financing to qualified buyers. Satinwood Gate is a new landscapedcommunity located minutes away from schools and Grand Cayman’s waterfront city centre, GeorgeTown. Featuring two-storey, three- and four-bedroom homes with private gardens and driveways,Satinwood Gate is the perfect investment for first time homeowners and young professionals withgrowing families.
For more information call: 1.345.949.7822.
RE/MAX CAYMAN ISLANDS AWARDED TOP OFFICE 2012 Cayman IslandsAt the RE/MAX International annual convention earlier this year, RE/MAXCayman Islands was awarded the coveted title of ‘Top Office in Total SalesVolume for a Single International Office (excluding USA & Canada)’. In theCaribbean/Central America Region, RE/MAX Cayman also received theaward for ‘Top Office in Transactions’ and was runner-up for ‘Top Office inSales Volume’.
Broker/Owner James Bovell was inducted into the ‘Circle of Legends’, thehighest career achievement within the RE/MAX network. Agent MichaelJoseph received the Lifetime Achievement Award and agents Susan Boyko,Kerri Kanuga and Cathy Williams were inducted into the Hall of Fame.
“James and I are very proud of the achievements of our team,”commented Broker/Owner Kim Lund, himself a member of the ‘Circle ofLegends’. “2012 is off to a good start and we are confident that many ofour agents will be on stage celebrating more success at the RE/MAXconvention in 2013.”
For more information visit: www.remax.ky Celebrating at the Convention: (from left) Tatum Jose, James Bovell, Michael Joseph, Brigitte Greene,Susan Boyko, Kim Lund, Tamara Siemens, Peter Takacs and Kass Coleman.
BUTTERFIELD’S MIDTOWN PLAZA BANKINGCENTRE IS NOW OPEN Cayman IslandsButterfield celebrated the opening of its newest banking centre located atMidtown Plaza earlier this year.
The location was carefully chosen so that synergies can be enjoyedbetween the bank and the surrounding businesses. “We think we havefound the perfect location in which we can grow. It’s a great branch, in agreat plaza, in a great location” commented Conor O’Dea, Butterfield’sSenior Executive Vice-President, Caribbean.
Butterfield Midtown Plaza has been designed with the customer in mind,featuring a spacious customer service hall, an area for private customermeetings and the fastest ATMs in the Cayman Islands.
For more information visit: www.ky.butterfieldgroup.com
Butterfield staff cutting the ribbon
UPCOMING EVENTS AT CAMANA BAY:
Moonlight & Movies | Tuesdays 7pm (June-August)Constitution Day Fireworks | Tuesday 2 July 8pmOrtanique Full Moon Pig Roast | Every Full Moon 6pmMusicians’ Showcase | Second Saturday of the Month 6-9pmFarm-to-Table Dinner at Michael’s Genuine | Third Saturday of the Month 7pm
14 | INDUSTRY NEWS
ENVIROSHAKE® INC. HAS THE CARIBBEAN COVERED United States and Caribbean
Enviroshake® Inc. has announced that it has been chosen by TheSandy Lane Hotel to replace the ageing cedar shake roofs.Following an extensive review process, The Sandy Lane Hotelselected Enviroshake® due to product authenticity, durability andhigh wind ratings.
Enviroshake® is also proud to announce that The BodyHolidayLeSPORT Hotel, St. Lucia has commissioned them for a completere-roofing of all residences. Once this is complete, all buildings onthe property will feature Enviroshake® roofs.
In addition to these recent commissions, Enviroshake® has gained approval as an acceptable alternative roofingproduct in both the Apes Hill community and the Royal WestMoreland community in Barbados.
For more information visit: www.enviroshake.com/caribbean or call: 1.866.423.3302
BLUE POINT CONSULTANTS LTD. EXPANDS SERVICES TODISTRESSED HOTEL MARKETCayman IslandsBlue Point Consultants Ltd., a firm of fully qualified chartered surveyors with over 12 years industry experience, areon the approved panel for many major Caribbean banks and act for a number of the region’s top developers.
Building on local and global knowledge, Blue Point Consultants Ltd. has recently expanded its services to cater tothe distressed hotel market. With an increased number of hotels and resorts for sale and bank foreclosures andstalled developments, there is a strong demand for professional advice on value as well as off-market opportunities.
Blue Point Consultants Ltd. is one of the few firms of fully qualified chartered and valuation surveyors in the regionwith specialist knowledge on how to accurately value hotels, as well as the local expertise to evaluate asset value.With this knowledge they are well placed to advise on the acquisition of distressed assets to ensure the full risk andpotential are known.
For further information visit: www.bluepointproperty.com or email [email protected]
DART REALTY BRINGS GLASSRECYCLING TO CAYMANCayman IslandsAn estimated ten percent of all waste in the CaymanIslands comes from glass bottles and jars, and untilrecently there was no way of recycling this wasteproduct. Taking the first step towards a nationwideglass-recycling programme, Dart Realty recentlytook delivery of a small industrial glass pulveriserwhich has capacity to crush 1,500 pounds of glassper hour.
In addition to the public glass recycling station atCamana Bay, community bins are being distributedto local supermarkets and community centres.Glass will be collected once a week and taken toCamana Bay for recycling.
Crushed glass can be reused in a number of ways.For the environmentally conscious homeowner,‘Glasscrete’ mixes crushed glass with cement for atruly unique visual effect and can be used foranything from kitchen and bathroom countertops to pavements.
For more information on recycling at Camana Bay,email: [email protected]
ISLAND CONCIERGEEXPAND INTOPRODUCTIONSERVICES The BahamasIsland Concierge Limited (ICL), a leaderin concierge services in The Bahamas,has recently expanded into theproduction services industry assistingclients such as Vanity Fair, Louis Vuitton,and the British Royal Navy in facilitatingphoto shoots and commercials.
Offering a full range of services to ensureproduction runs smoothly, ICL also offersassistance with everything from realestate rentals and sales, daily boat andmega-yacht charters to providing chefsand butlers.
“Our customers’ requests vary from thesublime to the extreme, but we workvery hard to accommodate them,”explains co-owner Cathryn Evans. FinaJohnson, co-owner, adds, “Having livedin a few countries ourselves, we knewfirst hand how much of a hasslerelocating can be; at ICL we try to makethat transition as seamless as possiblefor our clients.”
For more information visit:www.iclbahamas.com
RL
INDUSTRY NEWS | 15
COMPETITION WINNER
DOMINICA RESORT NAMED ONEOF THE 50 BEST NEW HOTELSIN THE WORLDDominicaEarlier this year, Secret Bay became the first eco-luxuryhotel in Dominica to be named on the prestigious 2012Travel + Leisure It List. Out of the 3,000 new hotelsworldwide that opened in the past year, the reputed listrecognises just 50 of the most inspiring properties.Secret Bay is one of only three that were chosen fromthe Caribbean.
Ranked number 12, Secret Bay is described by Travel +Leisure as, “a stylish newcomer on the Caribbean island ofDominica” with particular reference given to the resort’s“above-and-beyond service.” Indeed, the small sustainabledevelopment on the northwest coast of the ‘Nature Island’of the Caribbean opened less than a year ago, but hasalready received wide press coverage in the internationalmedia and is ranked number one in Dominica onTripAdvisor. Secret Bay is now moving on to stage two ofthe project offering additional cliff�top villas and bungalowsfor purchase either through full or fractional ownership.
For more information visit: www.secretbay.dm
H.G. CHRISTIE LTD. CELEBRATE 90 YEARSOF REAL ESTATE SUCCESSThe BahamasIn 1922, the legendary Sir Harold George Christie’s vision and pioneering spiritblazed a trail that is still being followed today. Sir Harold’s innovative spirit wasinstrumental in the creation of many of the most celebrated real estatedevelopments within The Bahamas, including the prestigious Lyford Cay.
In 1978, Sir Harold’s nephew, William McP (Peter) Christie, became Presidentof the company and in 1995, John, Peter’s son, joined the firm as VicePresident. With real estate ‘in their blood’, a love for the islands of TheBahamas and a belief in the power of the internet, H.G. Christie Ltd. becamethe first local real estate firm with a website. For many years it was the onlyfirm to offer an accessible database of listings in The Bahamas. Today,HGChristie.com showcases the largest portfolio of Bahama’s real estate.
With a commitment to exceptional customer service and a genuine love andrespect for its homeland, HG Christie Ltd. continues to lead the developmentof real estate in The Bahamas today, just as it did 90 years ago.
For additional information visit: www.HGChristie.com
Congratulations to
Scott McFarlanefrom Scotland, our competitionwinner of the three night‘Romantic Getaway’ luxurypackage for two at one ofSandals 12 sumptuous all-inclusive Caribbean resorts.
GREEN GLOBE CERTIFIES ROSALIE BAY RESORT DominicaGreen Globe has announced the certification of Rosalie Bay Resort on Dominica. The eco-luxury resort is a local pioneer in sustainability management and the only Green Globe certifiedproperty on the island. Rosalie Bay Resort is committed to providing high-quality services whilstminimising the property’s impact on the environment by implementing eco-friendly practices.
Green Globe Certification’s CEO, Guido Bauer, said, “We are very pleased to award Rosalie BayResort the Green Globe Certificate. Everybody at the resort considers the environment in everydaydecisions and little details – from installing LED lights and using chairs made from recycled materialsto providing sustainably produced cotton towels and UV filtered natural spring water.”
“We are excited to be Green Globe certified and to bring this distinction toDominica,” said Beverly Deikel, owner of Rosalie Bay Resort. “More than ten
years ago, we set out to create a luxury resort that would protect the localenvironment, empower local residents and share the natural beauty of theisland with guests. Receiving this international recognition for ourenvironmental and community achievements makes us very proud.”
For additional information visit: www.rosaliebay.com
Seagrape House
RL
Seagrape HouseNestled in foliage on a golden stretch of Cayman coast is a
house that refuses to stand out: homage to the Caribbeanvernacular with a radical green twist.
Words by Juliet Austin. Photos by Martyn Poyner, courtesy of John Doak Architecture.
RL
18 | SEAGRAPE HOUSE
Never has the metaphor of‘homecoming’ played out sosymbolically as in the award-
winning seaside residence of Grahamand Janet Morse. After fifteen yearsblue water sailing, the ocean gypsieshung up their sailing boots and charteda new course for Grand Cayman – theperfect small island on which to make abig impact. Here, their sea dreamswould become the bricks-and-mortarreality of Seagrape House – an eco-friendly, solar powered home withcommon sense at its foundation.The philosophy was simple: any fixed
abode must embody the deep respectfor nature so central to their worldview.“As yachtsmen, we understand what itmeans to be close to nature,” theyexplain. “We have learned to treat theplanet with care… to tread lightly.” Sobegan the two-and-a-half-year quest forEden: a landscape of unrestrainedwilderness, tangled branches, shadycanopies and birdsong; a place ofduality, where the roots of permanencestill possessed the beyond-the-horizonthrill of new adventure.Channelling insights from their
travels – the traditional West Indianplantation houses of St. Kitts andJamaica, the tropical splendour ofGrenada, and the remote simplicity ofFrench Polynesia – a phase of intensiveplanning began. With fastidious
attention to detail, a local ‘crew’ ofphilosophically sympatheticprofessionals was assembled: renownedCaribbean architect and ‘imagineer,’John Doak, construction manager, AlanVeeron of Smart Construction, andlandscape architect, Tom Balon ofVigoro Nursery. Armed with the GreenBuilding Bible, an information-gathering mission included visitingexhibitions, attending renewable energyseminars and investigating innovativesystems to support a sustainablelifestyle in the Tropics. The result? Anarchitect’s brief covering every aspect oftheir future energy efficient,environmentally friendly home.Drawn to a 1.3-acre lot in Frank
Sound, paradise was found. “Theproperty fronts onto a breathtakingstretch of golden beach,” Doak explains.“Mature seagrape trees, sculpturallygnarled from decades of growth andevolution, extend up from the shorelineand over a storm ridge to form amagnificent canopy of shade andprivacy.” Sited to the west of a rockyknoll and oriented to the southeast at anangle to the shoreline, the design retainsa vital connection to the sea. Capitalisingon patterns of light and shade, thecooling effects of vegetation and, addsDoak, “the influence on the senses ofsmell, sound, sight and touch,” SeagrapeHouse rose organically within its tropical >
RL
FROM FASHION TO COMPASSION | 19
RL
20 | SEAGRAPE HOUSE
context, capturing prevailing breezes anddelivering breathtaking panoramic viewsof the coast and reef protected sound.Completed in September 2011, the
home melts into its surroundings,giving the impression of having stoodfor a lifetime. Using a combination ofopen areas, untouched woodland andintimate recesses woven together byCayman stone paths, flagstones andtimber accents, native species such assea lavender grow alongside jasmine,fruit trees, ferns and frangipani. “Thegarden is designed to cradle the house,making the property seem larger thanyou would expect,” states Balon. “Thetrick was to integrate all the naturaltrees and the beauty of what exists withthe landscape.” Insisting that no tree besacrificed during the build, naturalvegetation was hand cleared, withmature birch trees and silver thatchespainstakingly relocated andconstruction taking place backwardsfrom the beach to facilitate access.“The builders dropped the houseliterally within two feet of some of thelarge seagrape,” Balon reflects. “It canbe done. It just takes good planningand management.” With an elevated entrance onto the
second floor via a grand double
stairway reminiscent of classicCaribbean great houses like GrandCayman’s Pedro St. James, the livingareas spill out through French doorsonto an expansive fifteen-foot-wideverandah overhang with foliage-framedviews beyond the property’s boundariesout to the sparkling bay. Embraced by adreamy wraparound walkwaypunctuated by crimson geraniums,clusters of potted herbs and theomnipresent tangle of green, anintimate lanai provides a stylishtransition between outside and in.Open to the elements, yet sheltered bytraditional bead board ceilings, palemarble travertine tiles are coolunderfoot, delivering the ultimate inbarefoot bliss. The effect is of a sublimetree house, complete with dartingswallows, pretty bananaquits andsquawking parrots feasting raucouslyon juicy seagrapes.An eloquent expression of Caribbean
culture, interiors are characterised by atimeless colonial aesthetic present in itstray ceilings, rich wooden hues, trovesof antiques and European furnishingsand impressive collection of Victorianwatercolour paintings. Yet, while thehome’s easy classicism distils theessential spirit of the old West Indies,
SEAGRAPE HOUSE | 21
RL
>
the design incongruously integratessophisticated state-of-the-arttechnologies and renewable energysystems. With the home winning thecoveted 2011 Governor’s Award fordesign and construction excellence,Alan Veeran comments, “Systems arenot visible from the ground, therefore,Seagrape enjoys the platform of being ahigh tech home that keeps itstraditional ambiance.” Practical to a fault and refusing to
sacrifice a single creature comfort inthe name of sustainability, energyefficient doors and windows ensurethat the sealed envelope of the homemaximises comfort. Air-conditionedyear-round, the elegant 5,800 square-foot interior is cooled by geothermal airconditioning that utilises groundsource heat pumps in a vertical closedloop system. “The water circulatingthrough the underground pipes drawsexcess heat from the house and allowsit to be absorbed by the earth,” statesVeeran. “This system also eliminates
RL
22 | SEAGRAPE HOUSE
the need for a water heater as itproduces hot water.”Built of locally procured materials –
68 tonnes of steel, stucco, naturalstone and insulated concrete – thearchitectural scheme expertly marriesfunctionality with style. Split-levelaccommodations, accessible via aresidential elevator, come in the formof ground level guest accommodations,providing space and flexibility whilsthousing the home’s technological‘command centre’ – three roomsprotected from risk of flooding bywatertight submarine doors. Fosteringthe illusion of a cosy apartment-à-deux,the main living area is topped by aspacious rooftop studio featuring wall-to-wall bookshelves, hickory woodfloors, framed family portraits,vertiginous ocean views and access tothe home’s forty-eight PV solar panels,currently providing forty percent of thehome’s electricity.
“We have learned to treat the planetwith care… to tread lightly.”
RL
SEAGRAPE HOUSE | 23
Taking further advantage of renewableenergy resources that save the ownersapproximately $2,000 per month, adesalination plant takes seawater from a200-foot borehole and produces 1,600gallons of fresh water in ten hours.Stored in two 5,000-gallon cisterns, freshwater and harvested rainwater irrigate thehome’s verdant grounds.A paradigm of self-sustainability,
acquired – one assumes – from yearsspent at sea, Seagrape House heralds anew era in Caribbean construction withthe promise of the best of both worlds.From its rocky outcroppings, idyllictreetop vantage and mesmerisingocean vistas to its financial savoir-faireand high tech proficiency, it stands: abeacon inviting us all to come homealong a path less travelled.
RL
26 |
RL
ocooned in its indigenous woodland setting, completewith mysterious limestone formations, agoutis, batsand woodpeckers, the Beach Bay eco-chic home of one
progressive Cayman couple is turning heads – not solely forits stylish design, but for its resolution to touch the planetlightly. Situated on a high-lying tract of land, theenvironmentally savvy utopia has inadvertently thrown downthe gauntlet as an agent of change for what Einstein wouldhave called, “a substantially new manner of thinking.” Nurtured by childhoods spent roaming the English
countryside, the owners’ lifelong passion for nature lies at theheart of their home. “For us, nature is the ultimate link withspirituality – an easy way to access the miracle of the Universespeaking,” they explain. Settling in Cayman, building a homebecame an ethical extension of this green philosophy. “Wewere fortunate enough to be able to afford to make earth-friendly, energy efficient choices from the design’s inception.There was nothing we needed enough to jeopardise nature, soburning oil was simply not an option.”Engaging the services of local contractor, The Phoenix
Group, the couple worked holistically alongside ProjectManager, Shayne Howe and Icon Architect, Tami Scott, todesign an energy efficient family home that would incorporate
well-developed vernacular solutions, integrate best designpractices and utilise a bevy of environmentally responsibletechnologies. “There is a satisfaction that goes beyond thealmighty dollar in undertaking a project like this,” observesHowe. “It proves that there is no reason not to develop in asustainable way.”Without a paradigm, and working with an economy of
budget, dovetailing the construction and design processesfostered a collective understanding of need and ideology.“We invested time at the front end of the project – selectingthe right systems, sourcing materials and orderingjudiciously – to ensure we listened to and met our clients’criteria,” Howe explains. The outcome is a compact 2,800square-foot, three-bedroom contemporary home thatembraces an eco-friendly lifestyle, reduces demand on theutility grid and succeeds wildly at balancing aesthetic,pragmatic and sustainable considerations. Harmonising with the natural landscape, the approach to
the property is an experience to be savoured. Clearing aminimal building footprint, there is a palpable sense ofdiscovery – of having happened upon a secret cottage in thewoods. Yet, despite feeling far removed from the maddeningcrowds of George Town, the property is a mere fifteen
Authentic, hip and cutting-edge, one Grand Cayman eco-abodestarts a quiet revolution from the comfort of its own couch.Words by Juliet Austin. Photography by Heather Holt.
a force of nature
C
RL
>
a force of natureminutes away. Characterised by clean lines and an inventiveinterplay of angles and complementary elevations, the homeasserts its unpretentious sophistication, conveying sleek,understated modernity through the authenticity of its features. “We made the overall form of the building very simple,”
recounts Scott. “Locating the largest part of the roof mass to thesouth ensured maximum solar gain, while combining roomsand incorporating ten-foot ceilings created larger, more openspaces with optimal airflow.”Striving to reduce its carbon footprint, construction utilised
locally manufactured materials, including trusses and non-toxicinsulating concrete form (ICF) blocks, as well as locally sourcedand fair-trade items including a two-hundred-year-old reclaimedIndonesian wood front door and awning-style Bahamianshutters that actively negate solar heat gain. A floating woodenshade trellis, supported on hanging metal rods, introduces anote of contemporary cool, while the textural groove and smoothof shiplap siding and white stucco underscores the balance oftraditional and modern styles. Played out to dramatic effect inthe roofline elevations, “the extruded portions rise to meet thesky to form a crowning effect above the entry,” explains Scott.Oriented to take advantage of patterns of light and shade and
to optimise passive cooling from prevailing winds, the propertystays true to its mantra: less is more. A high performance,reflective metal roof seals the tight envelope of the houseoffering the perfect platform for the home’s twenty solar panelswhich provide hot water, run the cooling attic fan (the first of itskind in Cayman) and produce electricity to run the entire home.
“Functionality, ratherthan prestige, drove
each of our decisions.”
RL
CAYMAN’S BLACK MAGIC MAN | 31
Scott recalls, “In order to maximise theefficiency of the solar panels, theyneeded to be placed at a very specificnineteen degrees facing directly south,so a simple shed roof form was thebest solution.” A state-of-the-art watertreatment plant purifies wastewaterusing a bio-fibrous peat medium ratherthan chemicals, while rainwaterharvesting generates up to 3,000gallons of UV and carbon filtered water– perfect for guilt-free baths.Inside, interiors boast light-emitting
diode (LED) and compact fluorescentlamp (CFL) lighting, along with EnergyStar appliances and low flow fixtures.Painted with low/no volatile organiccompound (VOC) paints, the open planscheme promotes spatial flow andvisual harmony between living spaces,including the climate controlled musicroom complete with baby grand piano.Twelve-foot telescopic sliding glassdoors extend out onto a charmingcovered porch, sheltering the housefrom direct sun and allowing thenatural surroundings to form anorganic fourth wall for interior spaces. Downstairs, cool porcelain tiles
mimic wood. Hand-honed woodenbenches, forestry certified woodendoors and sustainable wood cabinetrycombine with neutral soft furnishingsto deliver a striking east-meets-modernvibe. Equally suggestive, eye-catchingglass subway tiles and reflective quartzcountertops in the kitchen, courtesy oflocal company Kelly & Associates,exude casual sophistication.Upstairs, carpets, made ingeniously
from recycled bottles, betray no hint oftheir former utilitarian function. Withviews out across the tree line,bedrooms feature a mixture of vaultedand tray ceilings with windows locatedon opposite walls to maximise crossventilation. It is, however, in the masterbathroom that you find the brightestidea: a high-performance solar tubethat uses advanced optics to streamdaylight into the room direct fromMother Nature herself. According tothe owners: “We had no desire to keepup with the Joneses, we simply chosenot to be beholden to the standards andexpectations of others. The housedesign is, essentially, very simple as weopted to invest in green systems ratherthan all the bells and whistles.
Functionality, rather than prestige,drove each of our decisions.”So it seems, the winds of change
whisper through the trees in thissoulful place. With its uncompromisingintegrity of form, function and spirit, allthe proof one could want of theincontrovertible need to embrace greenliving, we too are challenged to becomeforces of nature: to turn revolutionaryrumblings into affirmative action; to bethe change. According to Scott, “Anyonecan build a house like this, it just takesa committed client, lots of planning andattention to detail.” The pièce derésistance? Scott smiles, “The reactionof the public, when they realise theycan get all this and an electric bill thatis in credit. That is priceless.”
Sensuous, luxurious, sustainable… MentionJohn Hardy to any jewellery aficionadoworth their weight in gold, and behold the
brand’s cult-like popularity. Intricately handcraftedby a team of sixty highly skilled illustrators,designers, wax carvers and stone cutters at itsBalinese design centre, each collection melds localancestral techniques with haute joaillerie – the Frenchart of fine jewellery sketching initiated by head designer,Guy Bedarida, upon his auspicious arrival at thecompany in 1999. The son of a diplomat, Bedarida’s formative years were
spent in the flourishing crucible of Europe’s culturalhotspots: the architectural splendour of Paris andRome, the rich artistic heritage of Florence andthe multi-ethnic melting pot of Tunisia. Immersedin art, history, antiquity and diversity, he watchedhis father shower his mother with fine jewels,commemorating each of life’s preciousmoments. Internalising these symbolicassociations, Bedarida’s passion was ignited
and his destiny sealed.Classically educated at the Insituto Europeo di
Design of Rome, Bedarida honed his craft atBoucheron in Paris’ Place Vendôme, before movingto Van Cleef & Arpels in New York where hiscontemporary flair and aesthetic proficiency led himto fashion one-off pieces for Hollywood’s elite. It
would, however, be an invitationto visit John Hardy’s thirty-sixacre compound in Bali’scentral highlands that wouldforever alter the trajectory of
his life. Experiencing an instant connection to the people,culture and environment of Bali and recognising within himselfa deep affiliation with the company’s commitment tosustainability and corporate social responsibility, the designercut ties with his previous life and walked into his future. Respecting the synergy between company and artisan,
Bedarida’s penchant for composition and wearability, issuedforth a new era of design excellence characterised by an East-meets-West fusion. Embracing complex traditional
techniques – rantai (woven chain), tenun (wovenmesh), jawan (granulation) and ukiran (cut work) –and innovative technologies, his fresh interpretationsand modern design sensibility helped establish theJohn Hardy Group amongst the foremost fashionharbingers of the twenty-first century.
Inspired by nature and a zeal for exploringancient cultures and far-off lands, his collectionsevoke sultry glamour and sleek sophistication;each soulful, hand-hewn piece embodying thefluidity and organic susceptibility of the humanhand. Succumbing to his golden touch, preciousmetals and stones become iconic hammered silvercuffs; brooches whose secret back grills offerwearers a for-your-eyes-onlyreminder of inner beauty;intricate filigree-embellishedpendants andsublime jewel
encrusted rings.Yet, arguably the most
dazzling jewel in the John Hardycrown is the company’s near-as-
RL
Guy Bedarida, head designer, creativedirector and style sage behind theinternationally respected John Hardyjewellery brand – a man with greenvision and a golden touch. Words by Juliet Austin
Style& sustainability
damn-it revolutionary stance on sustainable luxury.Spearheaded by Bedarida and business partner,Damien Dernoncourt, an internal audit of its supplychain resulted in active investigation of cyanide-free gold sources and recycledsilver. Accented by newly minedmetals from 100 percentsustainable mines, traceablegemstones from conflict-freezones work alongsideunconventional naturalmaterials such as shells,bamboo and palm wood, tocreate the sort of eco-consciousmasterpieces that not only adorn, but define.This conscientiousness continues in the award-winning Kapal
Bamboo showroom. Designed by visionary Malaysian architect,Cheong Yew Kuan, it boasts a cathedral of curving bamboo setamid adobe-style buildings, water purification leach fields and anorganic farm producing enough food to feed workers’ daily lunch asthey gather under the shade of giant banyan trees. On a mission toget ‘Greener Every Day,’ the company aspires to achieve carbonneutral status, offsetting carbon emissions associated with its printadvertising, business air travel and electricity usage by plantingbamboo seedlings on Nusa Penida, a heavily deforested island offthe south coast of Bali. Covering twenty-five acres, to date over600,000 plants provide both ecological and local economic returns.Also offering patrons opportunity to participate, Bedarida’s 2007‘Wear Bamboo, Plant Bamboo’ scheme uses a portion of proceedsfrom the limited edition John Hardy Bamboo Collection to supportits imperative, “to reforest the world, one island at a time.”Continuing the legacy established by company namesake –
“utopian dreamer,” John Hardy – the designer’s sensitivity to thedelicate balance of the environment is omnipresent. Pivotal to whatTime Magazine described as, “A new vision… in which beauty and
luxury [can] be a solution, notjust a commodity,” Bedarida’sparadigm of environmentalresponsibility sets the goldstandard for turning passioninto the kind of profit thatcan change the world.
& sustainability
RL
Bahamian community developer,Orjan Lindroth’s biologically driven
approach to sustainabilitychampions the ecologyof commerce.Words by Juliet Austinbelief
building on
RL
ften viewed as a contradiction in terms, Swedish-born OrjanLindroth is both visionary developer and ardent advocate forthe growth of sustainable communities across the
Caribbean. Moving with his parents to Nassau, TheBahamas at a young age, the archipelago of sunkissedislands, inlets and cays became his true north – theadopted childhood home that would define hisconsciousness and shape his future. Moved by itscelebrated colonial architectural heritage, the innatewisdom of vernacular styles and centuries’ old livingtraditions, Lindroth evolved a model of fiscal andenvironmental sustainability and then set aboutbuilding on his beliefs.Graduating from the London School of Economics
and Political Science, Lindroth’s earliest forays intothe world of place-making played out on a broadinternational stage with projects as far afield as BritishColumbia, Alaska and the south of France. Lured backto his island home, in 1993 he re-established himselfin Nassau, founding the eponymously named LindrothDevelopment Company. A far cry from the charming,seaside town that had offered endless opportunities forplay and exploration as a boy, he remained profoundlyaffected and influenced by the diversity of place and people. “Itgave me the confidence to challenge the idea that monoculturesthat divide communities into different zones of use anddemographic are an improvement,” he expounds. “Time hasshown this leading to the destruction of community.”>
O
Opposite page: Orjan LindrothThis page clockwise from top left: Ca’Liza; Arne Lindroth, Orjan’s father, with AxelWenner-Gren, original developer of Paradise Island; Newspaper clipping featuringOrjan (far left) and his siblings leaving for Nassau from Sweden in 1952; and GunnelLindroth, Orjan’s mother (far right) with friends, in the 1950’s.
This page middle right: Aerial of Old Fort Bay marina community, New Providence.This page bottom: Old Fort Bay beach cabana (left) and detail of Bahamianshutters (right).
RL
38 | BUILDING ON BELIEF
Alongside his wifeAmanda, an Americaninterior designer with a flairfor nostalgic elegance andauthenticity, projects such asthe Old Fort Bay Club andthe Islands at Old Fortshowcased a commitment tohonouring historic context byconnecting the dots betweenthe built heritage of the past,the needs of the present andLindroth’s nascent designvision for a future, guided thetime tested principles andpractices of great place-making.According to him, “Whenbuildings and places relate topeople, they provide optimism,pleasure and function.”Awarded the highly prized Patron
Medal for Classical and TraditionalArchitecture and the 2010 PhilipTrammell Shutze Award for hisprivate home, Ca’Liza, Lindroth’sholistic methodology delivered a newgeneration of community: complex,civic-minded and anchored in space,place and time. “Look at any lastingcommunity in The Bahamas and youwill find a harbour as the wellspring,” hereveals. “If we then apply the laws of natureas they apply to humans, we find we needdiversity and connectivity with local cultures,economies and social and civic groups.”Yet, Lindroth’s magnum opus must surely
be his legacy-making Schooner Baydevelopment, the flourishing low-impactharbour-side village emerging organically onthe southeastern coast of Great Abaco.Pioneering a revolutionary sustainabledevelopment paradigm for the Caribbean, itpromises to write Lindroth’s name in history asone of the foremost proponents ofwhat he calls the ecological dividend– an economy of green that attests tothe fact that eco-prudence pays.“Aristotle reminded us,” claimsLindroth, “that nature wastesnothing. It is a fundamentalprinciple that transforms thecurrent cradle-to-the-graveextractive, industrial machine intothe economy of the future whichwill function more like nature inadopting cradle-to-cradle theoriesand practices.”Driven by what Jackson
Burnside called, “the architecture
of common sense,”Schooner Bay may well tickall the green boxes –community geothermalcooling system, milliongallon rainwater collectioncistern, solar hot water...the list goes on – therebyguaranteeing its creator atrip through the pearlygates, but as greenbuilding guru, SteveMouzon, points out in the2011 New Urban News,“Orjan isn’t simply doingthe right thing.” Havinganalysed the social,environmental,
architectural and culturalpatterns, it is Lindroth’sexposé of the staggering cost-savings of low-impactconstruction, that provideirrefutable proof that a greenlifestyle is not only good forthe soul, but not bad for thepocketbook either. Able to sitehundreds of millions of dollarsin ecological dividends,Lindroth’s message isunequivocal: forests = equity.
“Instinct is nature’s compass,” statesLindroth, “and we follow nature. Itdoes not waste; is resilient anddiverse – able to grow and adapt.Nature can survive without Wall Street,but Wall Street cannot survive withoutNature. It alone is the economy fromwhich all wealth comes.”Establishing basic conditions to
promote growth based on humanscale and proportion, “Much like asapling grows to a large tree,” theSchooner Bay ethos empowers
stakeholders to participate inbuilding a community ofworth over time. Anchored bythe fourteen-acre living,working, recreational harbourthat unifies and energises thecommunity, lots and homeshave grown into hamlets, and,in turn, a small village, in thehope of one day becoming athriving, walkable townnourished by fresh, localproduce from its organicgardens. Infused with greenwisdom, responsive architecture
RL
will form what Amanda Lindrothcalls, “legendary places,” whereworkplace and neighbourhoodare one, reducing driving by 80percent and substantially easingreliance on gas. Deservedly,Mouzon credits Lindroth with,“Working harder than any NewUrbanist developer… to create alocal economy.” Bolstered by the belief that
common areas should be sharedequally between big andsmall, out of two-hundred-and-twenty acres of land,more than half is beingpreserved as green spacewith plans to plant 200,000more trees. According toLindroth, “The outside realmof topography and landscaping, is a gift tothe street; a carefully managedenhancement of the local transect.” Grownfrom seed at the in-house nursery ratherthan imported as mature trees, theecological dividend runs at a staggering$38.8 million.Defying the modern throwaway culture
(and saving himself a cool $24.4 million inthe bargain), no aggregate or sand is
brought on or off site: every bucket moved is used to create anadvantage elsewhere. A strong reduce, reuse, recycle policy turn woodscraps to mulch, while beaches, mangroves and the coppice remainuntouched and the two-mile dune ecosystem is recognised forstrengthening the shoreline, reinforced by the root systems ofhundreds of native plant species.Orjan Lindroth is undoubtedly a man of crystal vision and
unwavering principle. Enshrined in his life’s work, a legacy of enduringcommunities stand: real places, built by real people, demanding theright to co-exist with the natural realm. If, as Professor Dr. Klaus Topferbelieves, “Sustainable development is the peace policy of the future,”then one of the more remarkable ecological dividends of Lindroth’swork must be the truce he calls for between developer andenvironmentalist. Change is here and Lindroth is ready.
“When buildings andplaces relate to people,they provide optimism,pleasure and function.”
Opposite page top three: Club Villas, Old Fort Bay, New Providence.Opposite page bottom: Sundowners at Schooner Bay, Great Abaco.This page: Schooner Bay, Lindroth’s latest marina front development on Great Abaco.
RL
| 41
Anse ChastanetST. LUCIA
Canadian architect, Nick Troubetzkoy, bright mind andcreative spirit behind Anse Chastanet, a soulful boutique resortnestled into the hillside between St. Lucia’s legendary iconicpeaks, has long been familiar with the spellbinding power ofthe exotic. Passionate about nature, his intoxicating art-fillednirvana frames beauty at every turn. Built on a 600-acre formercolonial plantation north of Soufrière, with achingly insouciantviews out over its namesake beach, undulating rainforests andpavonine seas, what can be more splendid than plucking thefruits of paradise to please the palates of those in search of anauthentic Caribbean experience?
Indulging the full five senses, Anse Chastanet’s appeal
supersedes the visual, auditory and tactile by offering ‘dinnerin the sky’ at its Treehouse Restaurant – a taste sensationguaranteed to win the hearts and minds of guests time aftertime. From vanilla beans to microgreens, farm fresh producegrown from certified organic seeds on Emerald Estate, theresort’s farm located close by in the Soufrière hills, combineswith a bountiful harvest of tropical fruit – guava, mangoes,passion fruit and coconuts – from the on-site garden,delivering meals that feed both body and soul. Invoking theessence of St. Lucia in every mouth-watering creation,Executive Chef, Ivan Silks serves up both contemporaryCaribbean cuisine – a feast of fresh-caught fish and just-off-the-vine fruits – and Creole-infused dishes that tell thegastronomic history of the Helen of the West Indies in everybite. Tempted? Grab a fork, and dig in...
RL
CAYMAN’S BLACK MAGIC MAN | 43
Commenting recently on the Caribbean’s heavy dependence upon foreign food imports comprisedmostly of processed products, Secretary General of CARICOM, Erwin LaRoque, indicated theimportance of sustainable food production in addressing the region’s staggering US$4 billion bill.Lucky for him, four fine dining resorts are ahead of the game, intent on bringing ‘soon come’ backinto the belly of the Caribbean experience.
a matter
As the organic food trend seizes the gastronomic imagination of the Caribbean,four taste-full resorts prove that you do not need to go to the ends of the earthto sate the modern palate. Words by Juliet Austin
oftaste
>
44 | A MATTER OF TASTE
Cuisinart ResortANGUILLA
Leading the seismic culinary shift towards locally sourced,organic foods, Anguilla’s Cuisinart Resort, situatedon the breathtaking Rendezvous Bay, pulled out allthe stops in 1999, when it became the first resortto feature its own hydroponic farm. Managed fromits inception by the learned Dr. Howard Resh, the18,000 square-foot greenhouse produces healthy,pollutant-and-pesticide-free fruits, vegetables,herbs, spices and edible flowers, used to create theFrench and Mediterranean-inspired gastronomicmasterpieces for which the resort is renowned.From lettuce, tomatoes, broccoli and aubergine tosweet peppers and papaya, just one bite of aCuisinart mango is all it takes to experience thetaste superiority of home-grown produce over imported fareflown in frozen from the U.S.
Encouraged to pick their own from colourful groves ofbearing trees and fertile orchards, the resort’s hands-oncooking classes enable guests to savour the flavours of agarden-to-table lifestyle. A world away from the culture of
distrust in food industry standards andwidespread media misinformation, where globalindustrial farming serves up bland homogeneityat the table; here, titillating the taste buds is anadventure in eating; a delicious culturalexperience that casts each guest in the role of agastronomic Indiana Jones. At the CuisinartResort, what you see is what you get – no needto decipher food labels or agonise over highfructose corn syrup, hydrogenated oils, growthhormones or artificial sweeteners; just pure,natural flavours, bold and intense;unadulterated ingredients ripened fully under
the Caribbean sun. Embrace this slow food movement thataccepts no substitutes.
RL
A MATTER OF TASTE | 45
Hermitage BayANTIGUA
Described by co-owner and avidenvironmentalist, Andy Thesen as, “the perfectantidote to modern, hectic life,” Hermitage Bay’sbeachfront cottages and hillside suites were,quite literally, carved by hand into a hidden coveon Antigua’s western coast. A contemporaryluxury resort guided by a gentle hand, it isperfectly placed for the new upsurge in Health and Wellbeingtourism which, guided by the acronym L.O.A.F – Local,Organic, Animal-friendly and Fairly traded – answers locavoredemands for more ethical and genuine dining experiences.
Accompanied by a soundtrack of crashing waves, rustlingleaves, harmonic sea breezes and insect melodies, guests starttheir day with the exotic, freshly squeezed juice-du-jour – guavaand soursop, watermelon or papaya – enjoyed whilst taking inthe sweeping panorama of sea and sky. Later, a visit to a localfarm gives the opportunity for a whirlwind taste bud tour of theisland, experiencing a sort of anthropological bite of its culture.Senses ignite with each colourful encounter from ackee,custard apple, cashew, guinep and noni to no less thanfourteen varieties of mango.
The recipient of awards and recognitions toonumerous to mention – most romantic, sexiest,hottest… each superlative speaks to the resort’sdesire to exceed guest expectations, no more sothan in its provision of mouth-watering menusthat have never made eating one’s greens quiteso much fun. Aspiring to minimise food milesand support local agriculture, its commitment tousing organic fruits, vegetables, herbs andspices from its own kitchen garden, thriving
local markets and island suppliers is indicative of theimportance placed on food security and ethicality. In anutshell, Hermitage Bay is one resort guaranteed never toleave a bad taste in your mouth. >
Hermitage Bay
46 | A MATTER OF TASTE
MOUNT CINNAMONGRENADA
Set in the southernmostCaribbean, Grenada’s MountCinnamon boutique resort isdistinguished and defined byits stunning mountainoustopography and its completeimmersion into the cultureof what was once called ‘TheSpice Island.’ Now owned bymover and shaker andinternational entrepreneur,Peter de Savary, the propertyis a contemporaryreincarnation of the formercolonial plantation oncebelonging to British LordEdgecombe of Devon. Surrounded by tropical flower gardensand sublime views out over Grand Anse beach, thecollection of bedroom suites, villas and haciendas are ablazewith the colours of the Caribbean, tempting guests to feasttheir eyes upon the rich bounty of Mother Earth and live inunity with nature.
Exotic, mindful and pure, culinary offerings seek similarlyto capture the island’s unique terroir. Characterised by just-picked herbs, nutrient-rich fruits and crisp vegetables grownat de Savary’s private plantation estate, menus featureexotic local fish freshly plucked from the sea and tendermeats seasoned with a kick of the spice – nutmeg, cloves,ginger and its namesake cinnamon. What on God’s greenearth could compare to the taste-full bliss of dinner atSavvy’s Restaurant overlooking the twinkling lights of thecapital, St. George or, failing that, the sensual pleasure ofbeing wrapped in warm banana leaves and embalmed inMoi Spa’s nutmeg butter soufflé?
MOUNT CINNAMONGRENADA
RL
RL
CAYMAN’S BLACK MAGIC MAN | 49
RL
50 | ROLLING IN THE DEEP
CAYMAN’S BLACK MAGIC MAN | 53
RL
TREASURE ISLANDS | 53
>
RL
ich and decadent, chocolate has long been one of theworld’s favourite sweet indulgences. The finestchocolate is strong and dark, bordering on bitter, with
complex flavours that whisper of exotic spices, nuts and fruits. Chocolate’s story began two thousands years ago
in the rainforests of Mesoamerica, where theancient Aztecs and Mayans would harvest thepods of the cacao tree, roasting andgrinding the seeds to make a dark, bitterdrink they called ‘xocoatl’. Of hugeimportance to these ancient civilisationswho believed it possessed mystical powers,cocoa was used in religious rituals, and thebeans were traded as currency. Although notimmediately pleasing to the palates of the Europeanexplorers arriving in the New World, once they began to mix itwith cane they cultivated in the Caribbean, chocolate gainedwidespread popularity. Of the three varieties of cacao tree, the forastero, grown
largely in Western Africa, accounts for 90 percent of all cocoaproduced. This ‘bulk bean’ is a hardy, disease-resistant variety,characterised by a solid, if unexceptional flavour. The criollotrees, on the other hand, produce the more delicate beans that
add floral, spicy and aromatic tasting notes to thefinest chocolate. Originating in Trinidad, the
trinitario, which is now the predominant cacaovariety of the Caribbean, combines thestrength of the forastero with the flavourintensity of the criollo. Much like wine, the climate and soil in
which cacao is grown, and the way in whichthe beans are dried and fermented all influence
the flavour characteristics of the bean. The richvolcanic soil, heat and humidity of the Caribbean provide
ideal conditions for growing cacao trees and producingchocolate that has depth and character.Although the majority of beans are exported, a few
enterprising cocoa farmers in the Caribbean are drawing
from bean to bar Words by Natalia Taylor
Caribbean Chocolate:
R
RL
CARIBBEAN CHOCOLATE | 57
from bean to bar
attention to the region’s historic role in chocolate production byprocessing, fermenting, drying and roasting their own beans andmaking artisan chocolates on-site. On the spice island of Grenada, since Hurricane Ivan
destroyed three quarters of the island’s nutmeg plantations in2004, cocoa has become the number one agricultural export,overtaking the original trade-leader nutmeg. The GrenadaChocolate Company, a cocoa farmers’ and chocolate-makers’cooperative, prides itself on producing some of the strongest,richest chocolate in the world. Using refurbished antiquemachinery, modified to run on solar power, they roast the beans,separate the cocoa butter from the solids and make a variety ofaward-winning, luscious, dark organic chocolates. One of thecooperative’s largest farms, Belmont Estate, attracts a steadystream of visitors keen not only to tour the facilities and witnessat first hand the process of making chocolate, but also of course,to taste the difference. Taking chocolate appreciation to new heights, the Hotel
Chocolat in St Lucia invites guests to immerse themselves in aworld of chocolate, for days at a time. Located on an ancientcocoa plantation that has been nurtured back to health in recentyears, chocolate and cocoa have been subtly woven into everyfacet of the resort, from chocolate cocktails and cocoa-inspiredcuisine to cocoa oil spa treatments. This year, a chocolate factorywill be added, so that guests can have a hand in making theirvery own bite-sized treats.As consumers increasingly dema nd the finest quality
ingredients, and a return to more traditional productionmethods and values, thefuture of Caribbeanchocolate looks promising.By producing chocolateswith a high proportion offlavour beans, the regioncould truly lay claim to thefinest quality chocolates inthe world – something that,in time, may well grow intoa whole new industry forthe Caribbean.
Photo
s c
ourt
esy o
f T
he G
renada C
hocola
te C
om
pany
Photos courtesy of Hotel Chocolat, St Lucia
The Eight Steps from bean to bar1. Picking the cocoa pods. 2. Extracting the wet cocoa from the pods. 3. Drying the wet cocoa to create beans. 4. Hand sorting the cocoa beans. 5. Roasting the cocoa beans. 6. Mixing sugar in with the cocoa. 7. Pouring the liquid chocolate into molds. 8. It is a wrap – the chocolate bar is complete.
1 2
3
4 5
6
8
7
RL
traditional sailingYou can now cruise St. Martin/St. Maarten on RandomWind, a traditional, 54ft sailboat that has circumnavigatedthe world. Enjoy the luxuries of this beautiful boat whilstspending the day snorkelling, swimming and perfectingyour back flip off the Tarzan swing. Cruises are availablefor a Paradise Day Sail or private charter, limited to 22people, with food and drinks included. For moreinformation visit: www.randomwind.com
diving deepGet closer to nature at the St. MaartenMarine Park. Surrounding the entireDutch side of the island, the marine parkfeatures 28 dive sites including naturaland man-made reefs and shipwrecks.These areas contain some of the lastpristine marine locations, where excellentdiving and breeding grounds for birds,fish and other marine life can beencountered. For more information visit:www.naturefoundationsxm.org
24HOUR S
Located in the northern end of the Lesser Antilles, St. Martin/St. Maarten is often referred to as the crossroads of the Caribbean. Oneof the smallest sea islands to be divided between two nations; the northern-side of the island – St. Martin is an overseas collective ofFrance, with the southern-side of the island part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. These European influences seamlessly combinewith local Caribbean culture, creating a cosmopolitan getaway for rock stars and green-warriors alike.
creative cuisineLocated on the Boulevard de Grand Case, thisunassuming traditional Creole cottage housesone of the island’s best restaurants, L’Estaminet.Serving exceptional French cuisine with aninnovative and creative flair, it is the place to go
for a romantic evening complete with innovative,
palate-stimulating combinations. For moreinformation visit: www.estaminet-sxm.com
inST. MARTIN/ST. MAARTEN
3
5
1 secret hideawayLove to connect with nature? Loterie Farm is a secrethideaway nestled in the hillside of Pic Paradis on FrenchSt. Martin where you can wine, dine, climb, hike and glideover the treetop canopy. Begin your day with a guided hikethrough the beautiful tropical forest, and break for lunch atLoterie Farm Hidden Forest Café to sample locally grownproduce. Need an adrenaline rush? Clip in and zip-line downover the trees of Pic Paradis with Fly Zone ExtremeAdventure. For more information visit: www.loteriefarm.com
For more information on St. Martin/St. Maarten visit www.stmartinisland.org or www.vacationstmaarten.com
exclusive pampering The Dior Spa, the first of its kind in the Caribbean, islocated at The Cliff resort in Cupecoy Beach, St. Maarten.Here you can receive luxurious hydrotherapy andaromatherapy treatments, deep tissue massages, facialsand body scrubs. Spa goers also have access to theonsite pool, sauna and steam room. Incorporated intoeach treatment are signature Dior products known assome of the most luxurious around. For more informationvisit: www.cliffsxm.com/spa
2
4Set beside St. Martin’sfinest beach, BaieLongue, and lapped bythe Caribbean Sea, LaSamanna Resort andSpa is the ultimate inluxury. Constantlyranked among theCaribbean’s top tenhotel retreats, it is agarden paradise inwhich to enjoy an alfresco massage, lie in
a hammock or dine in gourmet style, lulled bythe waves. For more information visit:www.lasamanna.com
6
luxury retreat
PROFILE | 59
RL
corkit
You have to admire a material thatcomes back for more, no matterwhat you do to it. Sink it, burn it,squeeze it, drown it – cork neversuccumbs. So, whilst the modernwine industry may be shunningcork as the bottle stopper ofchoice, its buoyant reinvention atthe hands of the design industry isuncorking the new potential in the innatesustainability of this ancient product.
Discovered in Egyptian tombs and found in the ruins of the Greeks, the earliestrecorded use of the bark of the cork oak tree dates back at least three thousandyears. Later, Mediterranean fishermen would fashion cork into floats, using its
natural buoyancy and water-resistance to clinch their catch. But cork’s big boozy breakcame when eighteenth century champagne king, Dom Pérignon, noted that air pocketswould allow for compression into a bottle neck, whilst simultaneously facilitating areturn to its original form, thereby creating a seal.
It was not until the twentieth century though that cork became the floorcovering of choice in both civic and residential buildings. Here, the sameair pockets provided a lightweight, flexible productcapable of absorbing sound whilst offeringnatural thermal insulation. Adding a warm,welcoming feel to interiors, the superiordurability of cork made it an obviousalternative to hardwood floors. Now,experimenting with working at different
Words by Natalia Taylor
temperatures and with additionalpigments, flooring manufacturers such asHaro can offer a large selection of differentshades and patterns including light honeyto deep coffee tones, stripes and woodeffects such as oak and chestnut.
Today, creators and innovatorsrecognise in cork the endless possibilitiesinherent in its boundless versatility.Previously overlooked, few other productsstand to offer impermeability, elasticity anddensity while remaining a natural visualcorker. What is more, cork’s waterproofand insulating characteristics have leddesign brands such as Corque Design totransform cork into household items suchas wine coolers and place mats, as wellas creating unique seats, sideboards andtabletops. Experimenting with cutting,gluing, molding and compressing cork,designer Daniel Michalik, comments: “Forthe first time in my life, I was seeing amaterial perform in entirely new ways. Ifelt as if I had woken up in a new,uncharted world.”
Since this revolutionary moment,Michalik has coaxed and sculpted corkinto sturdy chairs, elegant, curved chaiselongues and modular concave andconvex wall panels that, when fittedtogether, create what he describes as a“three dimensional, rolling landscapealong a wall.” Michalik continues, “I havediscovered that when handled correctly,the natural flexibility of cork allows it toform fantastic, complex shapes no othermaterial can match.”
Versatility for innovation aside, it is thesustainability of cork that has truly injectednew life into a material that has been usedfor millennia. Harvested by hand in muchthe same way it has been throughouthistory, no more than 50 percent of thecork oak’s bark is removed at any onetime, ensuring the tree lives on unharmed.Whilst providing for Man, cork alsosustains a diversity of endemic wildlife,prevents desertification in arid regions andhas an exceptional ability to store carbondioxide. Add to this the fact that it is ahighly recyclable material – cork stoppersand off-cuts can be ground down,molded and baked into new forms – andthat processing produces virtually nowaste, and you have one of the greenestnatural materials known on Earth.
Attractive, flexible and long-lasting,science has thus far been unable toimprove on cork’s endless range ofqualities. A true gift from nature, we aresure to be popping the cork on thisincredible resource for many years to come.
Opposite page top: Cortiça, Daniel MichalikOpposite page top right: Black Flower, Ana Mestre for CORQUE Design Opposite page bottom left: Tilter, Daniel MichalikOpposite page bottom right: Praia, Daniel MichalikThis page top left: Tigra, HaroThis page top right: Arteo Stripes, HaroThis page bottom left: Vine, Tiago Nunes for CORQUE DesignThis page middle right: Arteo Textured Gray Oak, HaroThis page bottom right: Arteo Walnut, Haro
RL
RL
Connecting to the past, the ancient Kalinago tribe brings intuitiveearth-conscious design to modern-day Dominica.Words by Margaret Gajek. Photography by Derek Galon.
nce upon a time, a fearless, proud and inventiveKalinago tribe lived happily on Dominica. Today, aunique site on the rugged northeast coast of the
island provides rare glimpses into anarchitectural heritage and way of life beforethe arrival of Columbus. This place iscalled Kalinago Barana Auté or CaribVillage by the Sea. Featuringtraditionally constructed buildings,the showcase village is testament tothe enduring strength and ingenuityof indigenous design.Inhabiting a large area of almost four
thousand acres established by the British in 1903,the Kalinago Territory is home to the largest remainingpopulation of Kalinagos in the Caribbean. Called the ‘Caribs’ byEuropean settlers – a label that would later give its name to the
entire region – they have reclaimed their traditional Kalinagoname in the hope of preserving their culture in perpetuity.However, when the Spaniards first beheld the Kalinago’s
buildings, they did not regard them as ‘real’ homes, sovery different were they from the architecture theyhad left in Spain. Grouped around a centralplaza, the most impressive structure was themain meeting house, called the Carbet orTaboui. Smaller, tent-like Ajoupas andMouinas, built from hardwood and plantmaterial collected from the forest,
surrounded this sixty-foot-long structure.Roofs were made from thatched palm leaves,
with grass or reeds used also as wattle for the walls.Everything was tied together with maho, a rope made of bark.Inside, furnishing was sparse, with hammocks used forsleeping – another ingenious invention of the Amerindians.
the Kalinago
O
RL
Like the dwellings of otherAmerindians such as the Tainos inGreater Antilles, these buildings wereperfectly suited to the tropical climate.Thatched roofs and walls, permeable toair flow, allowed structures to breathenaturally – a quality that colonialEuropean-brought designs laterstruggled to achieve. The Kalinago’ssimple structures were alsosurprisingly strong, able to withstandfierce winds and hurricanes andquickly repaired when necessary.“My people lived off the land,”
Kalinago Chief Garnette Josephexplains. “The forest provided not onlybuilding material for houses, but alsofood, medicine and gommier wood fordugout canoes.” These masterlyconstructed long boats were fast, silentand agile – all key factors in theKalinago’s successful resistance ofEuropean attempts to invade Dominicafor almost 200 years.It is only recently, with the strong
interest in green buildingmethods, that theseindigenousconstructions arebeing recognisednot just for theiraesthetic andhistoric value, butfor their Earth-conscious design.Maurice Agar, arenowned Caribbeanarchitect based in Dominica,comments: “The challenge forarchitects designing in today’s worldwith our increasing environmentalconcerns, is to find a way toincorporate the materials and values ofthe past into our current ‘mod-con’lifestyles and structures. We need todesign our buildings not just withsustainability of materials at theforefront, but also with the end goal ofmaking it part of our lifestyle. We buildnot just for ourselves, but with futuregenerations in mind.” Called the ‘nature island of the
Caribbean,’ Dominica is host togrowing numbers of environmentallyconscious architectural endeavours,including Roots Jungle Retreat, createdby Pat and Staci Kosick, a lodgeinspired by Kalinago architecture. Patexplains: “I was driving one day nearby
Kalinago Barana Auté, and when I sawthat big Carbet house with its thatchedroof, I immediately knew – that’s whatour place should look like. TheKalinago not only built our lodge butalso gave us lots of help and advice. Wecouldn’t have done it without them.”
The rich Kalinagoheritage does notonly belong to thepast, butremains astrong andactive forcetoday. “Despitebig changes to
the Kalinagotraditional way of life,we still retain some of
its aspects,” explains the Chief. “Ourculture and traditions are close to ourheart and define who we are. We stilllive off the land and in tune withnature. We are blessed to be living innatural surroundings, and that feelingpermeates our lives. We are in a uniqueposition to offer on our island tovisitors coming from all over the globethe exceptional experience of ourculture, which we continuously striveto keep alive."
Above: Roots Jungle Retreat, inspired by theKal
inago
RL
RL
Conducting a green home audit – the ultimate eco-trip. Words by Lisa-Ann Hurlston-McKenzie
getting your
Does your home get a passing grade when it comes tobeing ‘green’? A green home audit can help determinethe eco-friendliness of your living environment by
assessing your home’s environmental performance based on thelifestyle of its inhabitants. Audits provide a guide to savingmoney and creating healthy living spaces by identifyingopportunities for greater energy efficiency, water conservation,waste reduction and use of local products or services. Stillrelatively new across the Caribbean, the number of companiesoffering energy audits continues to grow. So, while do-it-yourself green home checklists are readily available,results tend to be more comprehensive whenconducted by a professional trained in industry-accepted standards.
Beyond the ‘feel good’ factor of living agreener lifestyle and channelling yourinner eco-consumer, an audit canreap a wealth of rewards overand above saving you thatvital chunk of changeon utility bills.
Proven to enhance the wellbeing of occupants, lowerhealthcare costs and increase productivity, improving indoorenvironmental quality offers benefits to both businesses andfamilies seeking to ensure safe, healthy environments. What ismore, undertaking an audit can boost the durability and greenmarketability of your house as in the US, where green homesthat are professionally certified to ensure against‘greenwashing,’ often attract higher asking prices.
So what is involved in a green home audit? A survey of yourbasic utility information, lifestyle choices and current practices
is followed by an interior andexterior walk-through toexamine opportunities toimprove energy and waterefficiency, air quality andnatural resource use.Professional assessmentscan be quite involved anduse sophisticated testingand monitoring equipment.
green on
RL
REAL REPORT | 71
ENERGYThe energy audit will generate the biggest costsavings and greatly reduce your household’senvironmental impact. Energy experts claim thatmost properties can cost-effectively achieve upto a 30 percent reduction in consumption
through increased efficiencies in space cooling or waterheating, with payback typically in two to three years. Yourauditor may perform a blower door test for air leakage, useinfrared equipment or temporarily install monitoring devices toaccurately assess areas for improvement. Longer-term energymanagement tools for the homeowner are easy-to-installmeters (e.g. Kill-A-WattTM Monitor) and wall-mounted or web-based whole house energy dashboards.Among other things, your home will be audited for:• Energy-efficient appliances and electronics (e.g. Energy
Star), units left in standby mode which suck ‘vampire’electricity, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or light-emitting diode (LED) lighting;
• Efficiency of air-conditioning systems, temperature settingsand air filters;
• Air leaks around doors, windows and other areas;• High efficiency hot water heater or tankless system,
efficient temperature setting and insulated hot water pipes;• Fridge and freezer efficient settings, clean coils, good
ventilation and airtight door seals;• Washing machine cold-water setting and clothes line;• Insulated walls and attic;• Energy-efficient windows;• Renewable energy systems.
WATER• Drip-free faucets and no leaking fixtures
(a number of companies offer leak detection services);
• Faucet aerators, low-flow shower heads, dual flush or water saving toilets(e.g. WaterSense);
• Grey water reuse and rainwater harvesting forirrigation or toilet flushing;
• Xeriscaping (water-efficient landscaping) or drip irrigation systems.
Finally, the auditor’s report will contain recommendedimprovements along with calculated return on investment (ROI)or payback for measures. Some audits may estimate yourhome’s carbon footprint and offer ways to become ‘carbonneutral.’ Prioritise the implementation of recommendationsbased on your audit goals (i.e. lower utility bills or healthierhome). Change need not be made all at once; rather, start withsimple lifestyle choices or select budget-friendly options withone to three year paybacks. Once you start seeing monthlysavings, the extra funds can go toward further green homeimprovements or big-ticket items. Any way you look at it,getting audited never felt so good.
WASTE• Minimally packaged goods, bulk
purchasing, purchase of reusable, refillable and long-life items and reusableshopping bags;
• Recycling and compost storage bins and no garbage disposal;
• Separation of garden and food waste for composting.
HEALTH• Signs of mould;• Central vacuum system and high-
efficiency particulate arresting (HEPA) air filters;
• Kitchen range hood, bathroom exhaust fans and clothes dryer vented to outside;
• Low volatile organic compound (VOC) paints, furnishings and cleaners;
• Eco-labelled or environmentally preferable products(EPP), e.g. phosphate-free, biodegradable and low-irritant cleaning products;
• Organic pesticides, insecticides and fertilisers.
MATERIALS• Locally produced, made from renewable
resources or composite recycled content, recyclable;
• Certified (i.e. third-party verified) sustainable materials;
• Non-toxic (no VOCs, formaldehyde or PVC, arsenic-free).
FOOD AND CLOTHING• Locally grown food products, preferably
naturally and seasonally grown;• Designated area for home garden;• Organic hemp and other
natural clothing.
RL
RL
CAYMAN’S BLACK MAGIC MAN | 73
real estate REALTOR PROFILEJohn Christie, H.G. Christie Ltd., Bahamas..........................76
ANTIGUATradewind Realty....................................................................78
BAHAMASCaves Heights ........................................................................75H.G. Christie Ltd. ...................................................................77
BARBADOSGodiva Realty .........................................................................78
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDSSurfsong Villa .........................................................................77
CAYMAN ISLANDSJames Bovell, Dreamfinders, RE/MAX Cayman Islands ................................................77, 79Michael Joseph, Property Cayman, RE/MAX Cayman Islands ......................................................77
TURKS & CAICOSNW Hamilton.........................................................................77
USVISea Glass Realty.....................................................................78
Photo by Steve Passmore, Provo Pictures, TCI.
RL
76 | PROFILE
RL
ARCHITECTSAndrew Goodenough Architects, Antigua.. ........................(268) 460 1489Brisbane N. & Associates, St Kitts Nevis...........................(869) 465 5111Caribbean Design, Architects & Engineers, Barbados.......(246) 427 5696Roger Downing & Partner Co. Ltd, BVI...............................(284) 494 2762John Doak Architecture, Cayman Islands ..........................(345) 946 3625Lancaster Associates, St Kitts & Nevis ...............................(869) 465 7931Lee H. Skolnick Architecture...............................................(212) 989 2624Melon Design, St Lucia ......................................................(758) 458 4605OBM International
Antigua .........................................................................(268) 462 1047Bermuda ......................................................................(441) 278 3550British Virgin Islands......................................................(284) 494 2148Cayman Islands ...........................................................(345) 949 8115Miami............................................................................(305) 537 7100Trinidad and Tobago.....................................................(868) 624 6449
ATTORNEYSO’Neal Webster, BVI. ...................................................(284) 494 5808Lex Caribbean, Trinidad & Tobago .....................................(868) 628 9255Ogier, BVI............................................................................(284) 494 0525
AVIATION & AIRLINESArrindell Aviation Services, St Maarten ................................(599) 546 7641Biz Jet To Yacht (FBO 2000), Antigua.................................(268) 562 4347Bohlke International Airways, St Croix .................................(340) 778 9177I Am Caribbean Inc, Barbados...........................................(242) 428 1704I Am Jet Centre, Jamaica ...................................................(876) 971 9033Island Air, Cayman Islands .................................................(345) 949 5252Lloyd Aviation Services, Anguilla.........................................(954) 804 4288Million Air San Juan, Puerto Rico........................................(787) 994 3200MN Aviation, Puerto Rico ....................................................(787) 791 7090Odyssey Aviation
Asheville Regional Airport .............................................(828) 684 6832Charleston International Airport.....................................(843) 414 9200Chicago Midway Airport ...............................................(773) 284 2867Cincinnati Lunken Airport..............................................(513) 871 2020Port Columbus International Airport ..............................(614) 238 3900Lafayette Regional Airport ............................................(337) 234 3100Lynden Pindling International Airport, The Bahamas ....(242) 702 0200New Orleans Lakefront Airport......................................(504) 241 2800
Tropical Aviation Distributors...............................................(305) 255-6973
BANKS & FINANCIAL SERVICESUBS – Global Bank......................................................(242) 394-9300First Caribbean International Bank ......................................(246) 367 2300KPMG, Barbados................................................................(246) 427 5230KPMG, Cayman Islands .....................................................(345) 949 4800Scotiabank Private Client Group :
Bahamas:.....................................................................(242) 502-5701Cayman........................................................................(345) 914-6274Dominican Republic.....................................................(809) 545 8110Barbados .....................................................................(246) 417 2004Trinidad & Tobago ........................................................(868) 625 3566 Turks & Caicos .............................................................(649) 941 3971Jamaica........................................................................(876) 946 7215
St. Kitts Investment Promotion Agency (SKIPA)..................(869) 465 1153Republic Bank, Trinidad......................................................(868) 625 3671
DESIGNERSAdriana Hoyos ....................................................................(305) 572 9052DCOTA: Design Center of the Americas............................(954) 920 7997 Island Company .................................................................(561) 833 8110Lapierre's Marble ...........................................................(590) 590 873 249Marble of the World ............................................................(954) 745 9700
DEVELOPERS / CONSTRUCTION / SURVEYORSBCQS International
Bahamas................................................................(242) 393 5352Barbados ...............................................................(246) 428 8091British Virgin Islands ..............................................(284) 494 7144Cayman Islands .....................................................(345) 949 8644St Lucia ..................................................................(758) 450 7040Turks and Caicos...................................................(649) 946 4238
Decco Products Int’l Inc. ....................................................(305) 266 0104Enviroshake, Canada .........................................................(416) 648 0620Evocon LTD ........................................................................(305) 537 5409Harris Civil Engineers, USA.................................................(407) 629 4777Mansail Development Group, LLC, USA ............................(813) 254 3110NanaWall ............................................................................(800) 873 5673Rotherley Construction Inc, Barbados................................(246) 425 0950St Kitts Nevis Anguilla Trading & Developing Co Ltd..........(869) 465 2511Termo Build
USA ..............................................................................(347) 905 0865Canada ........................................................................(905) 764 1874
Victor International...............................................................(284) 364 2400
INSURANCEGuardian General Insurance, Trinidad...............................(868) 625 4GGLIsland Heritage, Barbados..................................................(246) 426 2218
KITCHENS, BATHROOMS & CABINENTRYDownsview Kitchens of Dania ............................................(954) 927 1100Downsview Kitchens of Juno .............................................(561) 799 7700Kitchen Design Studio in Dominican..................................(809) 541 7707Kohler, Caribbean ...............................................................(920) 457 4441Stafford Flooring .................................................................(441) 295 9744Delta Faucets .....................................................................(317) 587 1248Lapierre's Marble ...........................................................(590) 590 873 249Living Design, St Kitts.........................................................(869) 465 3223
PHOTOGRAPHYProvo Pictures.....................................................................(649) 432 7777Derek Galon Photography ..................................................(250) 360 0123
POOLS & OUTDOOR DESIGNCaribbean Botanical Designs, St. Lucia.............................(758) 721 2177David Tisherman’s Visual Inc., California ............................(310) 379 6700Lapierre's Marble ...........................................................(590) 590 873 249Tuuci ...................................................................................(305) 636 7882
REAL ESTATE AGENTSAmerican Home Mortgage Funding, LLC ..........................(954) 551 5559 BVI Sotheby’s International Realty ..............................(284) 494 5700Godiva Realty (Barbados) .......................................... (246) 249 8032Christie's International Real Estate
Anguilla......................................................................1 (888) 226 4845Antigua & Barbuda.......................................................(268) 562 6042Bahamas......................................................................(242) 322 1041Barbados .....................................................................(246) 432 0840British Virgin Islands......................................................(284) 494 2446Dominican Republic.....................................................(829) 473 0000Puerto Rico...................................................................(787) 925 2520St. Martin ................................................................(590) 590 51 02 85Turks & Caicos .............................................................(649) 941 4105US Virgin Islands ..........................................................(340) 775 9000St. Barth .................................................................(590) 590 29 88 91
St Lucia Homes..................................................................(758) 450 0877Terra Caribbean ..................................................................(246) 434 9000Tradewind Realty, Antigua...................................................(268) 460 1082
RESORTS / MARINASAnse Chastanet, St. Lucia ..................................................(758) 459 7000The Body Holiday, St. Lucia ...............................................(758) 457 7800Cooper Island, BVI..............................................................(284) 495 9084CuisinArt, Anguilla ..............................................................(212) 515 5867The Crane, Barbados .........................................................(246) 423 6220Jade Mountain, St. Lucia....................................................(758) 459 4000Hermitage Bay, Antigua ......................................................(268) 764 2133Ladera, St. Lucia ................................................................(758) 459 6600Mount Cinnamon, Grenada................................................(473) 439 9900Nanny Cay Village, BVI .......................................................(284) 494 4895Rosalie Bay, Dominica........................................................(767) 446 1010Sandals...............................................................................(888) 726 3257Scrub Island, BVI .............................................................1 (877) 890 7444Secret Bay, Dominica .........................................................(767) 445 4444Sothern Cross Club, Little Cayman ....................................(800) 899 2582Sugar Beach, St. Lucia ...........................................+44 (0) 844 921 0126Sugar Ridge, Antigua .........................................................(268) 562 7727The Horned Dorset Primavera, Puerto Rico .......................(787) 925 2520Zemi Beach, Shoal Bay, Anguilla........................................(264) 235 1879
SHIPPINGTropical Shipping ..................................................................800 638 8767
SHOPPING, JEWELLERY & AUTOMarvin Watches ...............................................................1 (800) 237 9477Effy Jewelers
Bahamas......................................................................(242) 326 7560Grand Cayman.............................................................(345) 949 3393Puerto Rico...................................................................(787) 721 0256St Kitts & Nevis.............................................................(869) 465 1339St Maarten ....................................................................(599) 542 3951St Thomas....................................................................(340) 776 3339
TOURISM BOARDAntigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority .............................(268) 562 7600St. Maarten Tourism Board .................................................(721) 542 2337St. Martin Tourism Board.....................................................0 590 87 57 21Saint Lucia Tourist Board ....................................................(758) 452 4094BVI Tourist Board ................................................................(284) 494 3134St. Kitts Tourism Authority....................................................(869) 465 4040Turks & Caicos Tourism Board............................................(649) 946 4970
ARCHITECTSJohn Doak Architecture...............................................(345) 946 3625Robert Towel ................................................................(345) 949 6681
ATTORNEYSConyers Dill and Pearman..................................................(345) 945 3901J Barry Smith Attorney-at-Law.............................................(345) 943 7700
ART & ARTISTHannah Cook Studio ..........................................................(345) 916 3060
AVIATION SERVICESIsland Air .............................................................................(345) 949 5252
BANKING & MORTGAGESButterfield Bank ...........................................................(345) 949 7055Caledonian...................................................................(345) 949 0050Cayman National Bank .......................................................(345) 949 4655Fidelity Bank (Cayman) Ltd.........................................(345) 949 7822HSBC Bank (Cayman) Ltd..................................................(345) 949 7755
CONDOMINIUM & VILLA RENTALSCayman Villas, Vacation Rentals.........................................(345) 945 4144
CONDO/RESIDENCES DEVELOPMENTSCrystal Cove .......................................................................(345) 949 4979The Terraces at Camana Bay .............................................(345) 640 3808Oceana...............................................................................(345) 949 6170Opus I & II ..........................................................................(345) 949 4979
DEVELOPMENTS / MARINASCamana Bay.......................................................................(345) 946 2229Cayman Enterprise City ......................................................(345) 945 3722The Bacadere Marina .........................................................(345) 949 3743
DEVELOPERSDavenport Development Ltd .......................................(345) 949 4979DART – Camana Bay .........................................................(345) 943 3278
INTERIOR DESIGN & LANDSCAPINGDesign Studio ..............................................................(345) 945 4977Sandy Urquhart...................................................................(345) 516 0913Sticks & Stones ..................................................................(345) 947 8663
KITCHENS, CABINETRY & FLOORINGStafford Flooring .................................................................(345) 943 2722Storage Solutions ...............................................................(345) 525 2647
PHOTOGRAPHERSHeather Holt Photography ..................................................(345) 916 5263
PROPERTY INSURANCEFidelity, Cayman Islands .....................................................(345) 949 7822Island Heritage ...................................................................(345) 949 7280
REAL ESTATE AGENTSDreamfinders, RE/MAX Cayman Islands ....................(345) 945 1585 Dart Realty ..........................................................................(345) 943 3278IRG International Realty Group Ltd .....................................(345) 623 1111Michael Joseph, RE/MAX Cayman Islands.................(345) 949 6170Paradise Properties.............................................................(345) 916 2455
SHOPPING, JEWELLERY & ENTERTAINMENTIsland Companies ..............................................................(345) 640 5337PASSMAN...........................................................................(345) 949 0123
SURVEYORS & PROPERTY CONSULTANTSBlue Point Consulting LTD..................................................(345) 525 0706
AVIATION & AIRLINESBahamasair.........................................................................(242) 377 8452Executive Flight Support .....................................................(242) 424 9598Odyssey Aviation Bahamas................................................(242) 702 0200
ARCHITECTSArtech Bahamas Ltd...........................................................(242) 327 2335Bruce LaFleur & Associates ...............................................(242) 323 8421
BANKSScotia Bank ........................................................................(242) 502 5799SG Private Banking.............................................................(242) 302 5000
CONCIERGE SERVICESIsland Concierge Services (ICL) .........................................(242) 362 6861
INTERIOR DESIGN & DECORDownsview Kitchens of Nassau .........................................(242) 377 0004Nassau Florist .....................................................................(242) 393 2223
RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTSCaves Heights....................................................................(242) 327 8867Lindroth Development LTD.................................................(242) 362 4422Lyford Cay ..........................................................................(242) 362 4211Ocean Club Residences and Marina .................................(242) 363 3000Old Fort Bay........................................................................(242) 362 6434Schooner Bay.....................................................................(242) 362 4422
REAL ESTATE AGENTSH.G. Christie .......................................................................(242) 322 1041
RESORTS & SPASCompass Point...................................................................(242) 327 4500
AVIATION & AIRLINEAir Provo Centre..................................................................(649) 946 4181
ARCHITECTSRA Shaw Designs ........................................................(649) 941 4394Simon Wood.......................................................................(649) 946 5911 BANKSHallmark Bank & Trust Ltd ..................................................(649) 946 5524Royal Bank of Canada........................................................(649) 941 4667
CONDO/RESIDENCIAL DEVELOPMENTSNorthWest Point Resort.......................................................(649) 941 8961The Gansevoort ..................................................................(649) 941 7555The Sands at Grace Bay ....................................................(649) 946 5199The Shore Club ..................................................................(649) 232 1067Turtle Breeze ......................................................................1 866 331 4269
DEVELOPMENTSRegent Village.....................................................................(649) 941 4400The Saltmills........................................................................(649) 946 4238
INSURANCEInternational Insurance Agency Ltd ....................................(649) 941 3195The Insurance Centre .........................................................(649) 941 4814
INTERIOR DESIGN & DECORDesign Studio.....................................................................(649) 941 4848Finishing Touch............................................................(649) 941 4393TC Millwork .........................................................................(649) 231 4537
REAL ESTATE AGENTSNW Hamilton Realty............................................................(649) 946 4060Turtle Breeze Villa ................................................................(866) 331 4269
CARIBBEAN REGION
CAYMAN ISLANDS
BAHAMAS
TURKS AND CAICOS
