Delightfully Designed Homes

Words by Kate Henderson - Smiths Gore. Photography courtesy of Smiths Gore.

Five uniquely designed feats of architecture that BVI residents call home

WITHOUT FURTHER ADO, we dive straight into five astonishing properties, that testify to the great architecture and architects of the British Virgin Islands.

1. A perfectly designed property should blend seamlessly into its surrounding environment, creating an almost invisible line between where the house stops and the island begins.

BVI architect Michael Helm created in Shannon House a flawless balance of luxury property and stunning natural setting.

Shannon House, Tortola, British Virgin Islands

Taking inspiration from Balinese architecture, Shannon House is built among immense volcanic boulders and tropical gardens.

An exceptional two-tiered swimming pool boasts north-facing views of azure sky and sea, melting into one another. Pitched thatch ceilings, sprawling outdoor areas, and spacious open-living effortlessly merge into the breathtaking environs.

Shannon House, Tortola, British Virgin Islands

2. With sheer hillsides and remote locations, the BVI presents one of the most difficult building environments on earth.

Therefore, the first sight of Mango Manor, built into the lush hillside on Tortola’s North coast, is truly breathtaking.

This prestigious estate wouldn’t be out of place on a beachfront at the Hamptons, and yet the marble pillars, huge archways, intricate stonework, and manicured landscaping seem ideally designed for breezy island-living.

Revered BVI architect Dion A. Stoutt has created an epitome of old school glamour and luxury in Mango Manor.

Mango Manor

The breathtaking ocean views are beautifully framed by high vaulted ceilings, sweeping entrances, and large glass doors. Plantation style furnishing and impeccable attention to detail create a truly one-of-a-kind property in the BVI.

Sounion

3. Properties located a stone's throw from the waters edge are few and far between in the BVI. Remote plots with very limited access from the road or water, makes building a near impossibility.

Located on a very private peninsular on Jost Van Dyke’s south shore, Sounion is another triumphant success from renowned BVI architect Viviana Jenik.

Built on a remote outcrop of land, this villa enjoys 200 feet of ocean frontage and an uninterrupted view of endless ocean and sky.

The private beach and pristine snorkelling reef are both a few steps away. Sounion has been designed to take full advantage of the remarkable location, with spacious living spaces and sweeping terraces.

This incredible property is a calm, relaxing, and very private sanctuary.

Pasea Apartments

4. Renowned architects at Roger Downing Partners have created in the newly refurbished Pasea Apartments, a Caribbean take on modern urban living.

Designed for convenience and comfort, these ten units are located just 150 feet above the heart of Road Town, yet are private and secluded enough to feel miles from all the hustle and bustle.

Careful consideration went into the materials chosen for this project; energy efficient roofing which reduces heat penetration, hurricane resistance windows and doors, and the environmentally conscious bamboo flooring in all the bedrooms.

Open-plan living opens up to the incredible views of Road Town, the islands on the horizon, and constant cooling sea breezes.

State of the art fixtures and fittings, and contemporary furnishings combine with warm wooden accents. The result is a stunning, sophisticated space that wouldn’t be out of place in any modern city around the globe.

5. Turpentine House was also designed by celebrated BVI architect Viviana Jenik, in close collaboration with the Italian owners whom delight in the exquisite beauty and detail of Mediterranean design.

Turpentine House designed by celebrated BVI architect Viviana Jenik.

As you enter the property through towering hand carved teak doors, it’s instantly apparent that you’ve found yourself in an architectural oasis.

Designed as two commanding pavilions framing a central courtyard and infinity-edged pool—with lush landscaping and expansive decking— this property seamlessly transitions indoor to outdoor.

The use of exceptional materials such as Guyanese Kabukalli, Indonesian Teak, and South American Ipe, were sourced to achieve this customised vision.

Turpentine House

Inside the distinctive octagonally shaped Great House, dramatically high ceilings supported by colossal teak supports, draw the eye in and upwards.

South African slate floors beautifully complement the Moroccan tadelakt stuccoed walls, painstakingly finished with handapplied wax. Turpentine House truly encompasses the very best of details and design from around the globe. ■

For more, follow Virgin Islands Property & Yacht on issuu.com.