3 bed, 2 bath home nestled in a residential community, a 10-minute drive from the West Coast US $380,000
Villa Soleil - Westport, St. James
5 bed, 5.5 bath. Main residence is 3 bed, 3.5 bath and 2 furnished one-bedroom cottages near Holetown US $999,000 (furnished)
Park Lot 47 - St. James
13,700 Sq. Ft. lot in desirable neighborhood with a spectacular view. Easy access to Warrens & Holetown US $170,000
Claridges Villa 10 - St. Peter
3 bed, 3.5 bath exquisitely furnished and finished semi-detached villa, walking distance to the beach US $1.3 million (furnished)
Pleasant Plantation,
Glitter Bay Terrace 2 - St. James
4 bed, 4 bath unit divided into several apartments with rental potential, minutes walk from the beach US $825,000
Hill Lot - St. James
21,793 Sq. Ft. large, elevated plot. Approved permission for development of six townhouses with pool US $500,000
Pleasant,
3 bed, 3 bath bungalow and 2 apartments on an acre of land with spectacular ocean views US $910,000
Heywoods 74, St. Peter 5 bed, 3 bath property split into two apartments with pool, ideal for rental, short walk from the beach US $485,000 (furnished)
11,254 Sq. Ft. prime lot perched on an elevated lot in the sought-after Regency Park neighborhood US $187,500
Crick
Regency Park Lot 63 - Christ Church
Bakers Woods 68 - Bakers Woods, St. Peter
Prior
Mount
Mount
St. Philip
Editor’s Comments
Welcome to our annual Green Edition of Barbados Property News. Our charismatic Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley continues to champion the cause of Climate change and give voice to the concerns that decisions of the developed countries may have on the small island states. On the world stage she is being heard and making a difference. Thanks to The Minister of Energy and Business Lisa Cummins and her team for coming on board in this special edition with detailed information into what is happening in the north of the island with the Lamberts and Castle Wind Project. Thanks also to specialist Maxime Beaugrand for her knowledgeable insights and to the team at Blue Print management for letting us know how modern building practices must incorporate systems into the construction of projects to ensure that strict environmental standards are met.
With the summer coming up, it’s important to do a bit of a spring clean. Start with your bedroom! Do you have the right bed for you? Is it very old? Maybe time for a change! And how about how you organise your bedroom to get the best night’s sleep? We have some suggestions for you and advertisers with great beds, accessories and ideas.
Barbados is alive with lots of enticing property developments – some small, some larger but there is something for everyone and all price ranges. Take a look through the pages of BPN April May and be amazed at all there is to offer on this island. It’s a small place so don’t leave it too late to make that decision to ‘own a piece of the rock.’
Stay cool everyone as the heat gets turned up and enjoy the calm seas, gentle breezes and the anticipation of the busy, frenzied Crop Over season ahead. Life is sweet and ‘We Gathering’.
The Material and editorial contained in this publication have been deemed accurate at the time of going to print. The views expressed as editorial are those of the Editor unless stated otherwise. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the permission of Hiltop Publications Ltd.
Our Secret to a peaceful room and the best night’s sleep.
By Karin Truedsson at Walkers World
The world is full of so much chaos. Creating a calming space in your home where you feel at peace and want to retreat is essential for relaxation. It provides a sanctuary where you can recharge, de-stress, and reconnect with yourself. Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for a healthy balanced life.
Top tips for how to create a restful space, reclaim your sleep, and recharge:
Comfortable Mattress (Below)
Choosing the right mattress is where it starts. We spend on average, a third of our life in bed. Make sure to test the mattress in-store and consider selecting one that suits your sleeping style. Determine your sleeping position, consider your body weight, choose the right material and firmness level.
Quality Pillows (Above)
Opt for pillows that supports your neck and head, helping you maintain proper spinal alignment. Choosing the right fill, firmness and loft (height) is crucial. My favorite is our Microgel pillow which offers the softness of down,has great support, and is hypoallergenic and washable.
Create Cozy (Below) corners with furniture and accessories that invites you to unwind, like layers of soft blankets, throws, and plush pillows, or a comfortable chair.
Cozy. Cool & Comfortable Bedding (Above)
Invest in soft, breathable sheets and blankets to regulate body temperature. We believe in 100 % Cotton sheets, they are naturally breathable and are excellent at absorbing moisture and regulating your body temperature. Cotton is naturally hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for people with sensitive skin or allergies, resisting dust mites and other allergens better than many synthetic fabrics.
Cool, Dark Environment
Keep your bedroom cool (around 60-67°F) and dark for optimal sleep. In the Caribbean, window treatments with heavy liners or block-out allow for the best results.
Warm
Limit screen time before bed and use dim lights in the evening to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. Table and floor lamps are a great way to create ambient lighting.
Choose Soft Neutral Colours (Left)
Opt for calming colors like soft blues, muted greens, whites, or beiges. These colors help to create a serene atmosphere and reduce stress. Avoid overly bright or bold colors that may be over-stimulating.
Declutter (Above)
Keep your space tidy by organizing and removing unnecessary items. Invest in neat storage solutions, whether it’s a chest of drawers, nightstand with good storage, decorative laundry baskets or simply small useful baskets and containers holding your favorite things. A minimalist approach often promotes a more serene and calm setting.
Relaxing Bedtime Routine (Above)
Establishing a regular calming pre-sleep routine is a great way to unwind, making it easier to fall asleep. Meditate, read a book, and use calming scents, diffusers, and scented candles for a relaxing atmosphere. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends, to maintain your body’s internal clock.
We all crave more tranquillity and better sleep for a more positive mindset. Shop our sleep and bedding collections instore or online at www.walkersworldbarbados.com.
Soft
Lighting (Above)
Step Into Innovation: Platinum Imports Opens New Showroom in Lower Estate
Imagine a space where innovation meets style, and where every detail is curated to inspire your next home or commercial project. Platinum Imports Inc. is redefining the home and building solutions experience with the grand opening of our brand-new showroom in Lower Estate, St. Michael. This state-of-the-art space is designed to bring your vision to life, offering a modern and interactive way to explore our extensive range of high-quality products.
While our Designers Hub - Haggatt Hall location remains open and fully operational, our new showroom takes things to the next level. From sleek lighting solutions and premium plumbing fixtures to durable building materials, cable, and fittings, we have everything you need to complete your project with ease. Whether you’re building a new home, renovating, or managing a large-
scale commercial development, Platinum Imports is your one-stop shop.
Our expansion doesn’t stop at the showroom. Our new cuttingedge warehouse is now fully stocked with premium products and building solutions, ensuring reliable delivery and even greater convenience. Plus, our expert team is always ready to guide you through the selection process, making sure you find the perfect solutions for your space.
We invite you to visit our new Lower Estate showroom and experience the future of home and building upgrades firsthand. Explore, interact, and get inspired - because at Platinum Imports, we believe your space deserves more than ordinary.
Platinum Imports – The Alternative to Ordinary.
Lamberts and Castle Wind Project: Powering Barbados’ Renewable Energy Future
Barbados is making a bold move towards energy independence and sustainability with the exciting Lamberts and Castle Wind Project. The Government of Barbados, a trailblazer in setting ambitious energy transition targets, is ramping up its onshore wind generation capacity with the invaluable support of the International Finance Corporation (IFC). The Ministry of Energy and Business (MEB) is gearing up to launch a competitive tender to attract an Independent Power Producer (IPP) to develop the country’s first utilityscale onshore wind farm. Strategically located in the picturesque northern parishes of St. Lucy and St. Peter, this landmark project will be a game-changer in Barbados’ renewable energy journey.
With an anticipated capacity of 30–50 megawatts, the wind farm will harness the strong and consistent winds in the island’s north. Once operational, it will significantly reduce Barbados’ reliance on imported fossil fuels, advancing national energy security and contributing to the country’s ambitious climate goals.
The Lamberts and Castle Wind Project is now in its final preparatory phase before the bid stage. Over the past year, the IFC has been working closely with the MEB to design and structure the transaction, ensuring the project’s commercial
attractiveness and exploring ways to deliver it inclusively, incorporating benefits sharing with local communities.
The competitive tender process is set to launch in the second quarter of 2025, inviting leading international wind power companies to develop and operate the project in line with international standards. Under the Power Purchase Agreement, the selected IPP will design, build, finance, operate, and maintain the wind farm, selling all generated electricity to the Barbados Light & Power Company (Light & Power).
The Lamberts and Castle Wind Project aligns perfectly with Barbados’ National Energy Policy, which prioritizes the transition to renewable energy to enhance energy security and stabilize electricity costs. This development comes at a critical time, as Barbados, like many other Caribbean nations, faces increasing volatility in global energy prices. The project represents more than just an energy investment – it is a testament to the island’s leadership in sustainable development. By embracing clean energy solutions, Barbados is setting a precedent for the region and paving the way for a greener, more resilient future.
- Ministry of Energy and Business, Barbados
The windswept coastline of St. Lucy
PM Mia Mottley Leading Voice in Climate conversation worldwide
By Maxime Beaugrant
What does IGSD do?
Maxime Beaugrant is a French Lawyer with the international NGO IGSD (the Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development), where she directs the Paris office. She explains how this small island and it’s Prime Minister are making an impact.
We work on strategies to address the climate emergency, specifically strategies that can bring climate benefits quickly, within a decade or two.
The Caribbean region, and indeed the rest of the world, is already suffering punishing climate impacts. Even more concerning, the warming is pushing the climate towards a series of tipping points— points of no return. Several of these involve the oceans and sea level rise, including the melting of the Greenland Ice Sheet and the West Antarctica Ice Sheet.
IGSD is focusing on strategies that can slow climate warming fast, by reducing the short-lived climate super pollutants including for methane (emitted by leaks and operations of the oil and natural gas systems, landfills, and cattle), and harmful refrigerants used in air-conditioners and other cooling systems while making sure the systems are energy efficient.
In the course of this work, IGSD has been working with leading experts to help governments understand and deploy these fast mitigation climate strategies.
Why Barbados?
Prime Minister Mia Mottley has been an indefatigable leading
voice in the global climate conversation, especially for the populations most vulnerable to climate change impacts (including islands such as Barbados in a region where temperatures will rise the most). This vulnerability makes it imperative to reduce impacts as much as possible, while preparing to adapt to impacts that cannot be avoided.
The PM’s leadership has been a game changer on many international diplomatic fronts. On the international finance front, she continues to strengthen and operationalize the Bridgetown initiative to reform international finance and make it fit to support the transformation needed in the face of the climate emergency. Thanks to her efforts, financial institutions are now including clauses in loan agreement allowing a pause of repayment when a country faces a natural disaster. This is one of many successes.
In her role as Chair of the Caribbean Community CARICOM, and Chair of the Groupe of Vulnerable Countries called the “V20” (a group which is now 70+), the PM has been carrying the torch for a better Barbados and a better world for vulnerable countries which means working to delay the worst impacts of climate change.
Very recently for example, during the Sustainable Energy for All meeting hosted in Bridgetown in March 2025, the Government of Barbados hosted a fruitful meeting to discuss access to energy in the Caribbean region and for vulnerable countries at large. During this meeting, over USD 900 million in commitments to scale energy access and accelerate the clean energy transition were catalysed. The Prime Minister also made it clear that cutting methane was an imperative climate strategy to bring temperature reductions in the near term, which is a fundamental strategy to protect countries vulnerable to climate impacts, sea level rise and extreme weather events.
How Green Construction Supports Island Resilience
by Blue Print Management
While the effects of climate change are being felt across the entire world, people, communities and economies in small island developing states are extremely vulnerable since island nations face unique sustainability challenges. Limited land mass, finite natural resources and geographic isolation make islands more susceptible to climate change, disasters and other crises and within the construction industry, these factors create a delicate balance where every development decision carries some measure of outsized impact. For islands like Barbados, responsible construction and greener building practices are now necessary considerations for sustainability, which is no longer merely an environmental choice but an economic imperative.
The Caribbean’s vulnerability to climate change has become increasingly apparent - whether it is unpredictable and intensifying hurricane seasons, increased humidity or rising sea levels and receding coastlines, very real threats exist against island infrastructure and the repercussions from their damage can set development back by decades. Barbados having committed to becoming fossil-fuel free by 2030, exemplifies the progressive approach that many islands are now taking in moving forward towards sustainable development.
As the construction industry evolves, greener building practices aren’t only about reducing environmental footprints, they are about building resilience and protecting communities that face existential climate threats. From the devastating impacts of Hurricane Elsa in 2021, to ongoing coastal erosion challenges, Barbados is experiencing firsthand how conventional construction approaches must evolve and improve to not only benefit the planet but also the to meet the unique demands of island environments and ensure resilience.
Climate-Proofing Island Structures
Beyond building with structural integrity, greener design elements are key to ensuring that buildings remain functional during extreme weather events. As one of the major natural disaster threats to islands, hurricane resilience must be nonnegotiable in Caribbean construction with an end goal to climate proof our island structures. Thankfully, evolved building codes and forward-thinking building practices now incorporate specific structural design parameters that result in carefully engineered buildings that can withstand extreme weather events. Resilience features in new construction now often
include the incorporation of materials that stand up to harsh weather conditions, reinforced roof designs, impact-resistant windows and strategic flow designs that help to minimize wind exposure and provide extreme heat protection. These features not only save energy during normal operations but ensure buildings remain safe and habitable following impact damage or power outages that frequently happen after a crisis like the passage of hurricanes.
Water Conservation: Managing Scarce Resources
Water scarcity remains a critical challenge for many Caribbean islands. Barbados, classified as a water-scarce country by the United Nations, exemplifies the urgent need for integrated water management in construction projects. Green construction practices in island environments must prioritize comprehensive water systems to support the quest for island resilience. Capturing and storing rainwater has become a key practice in water conservation. Rainwater harvesting has evolved from the use of simple rain barrels to more sophisticated collection systems that can now capture thousands of gallons during brief to heavy tropical downpours, these systems are now a critical resource in island construction. Rainwater harvesting systems typically include diverters that improve water quality or filtration systems that produce potable water for household use.
Greywater recycling systems separate, collect and treat wastewater from sinks, showers and washing machines for treatment and reuse in everyday non-potable uses, such as irrigation and toilet flushing. Greener water conservation practices not only reduce water consumption and environmental impact, but these dual plumbing systems can reduce freshwater demand by up to 50% or more in residential and commercial buildings compared to conventional designs.
Energy Efficiency: Reducing Dependency on Vulnerable Power Grids
As island communities face mounting challenges from climate change and resource scarcity, energy efficient buildings have emerged as a cornerstone of resilience strategies. Island power
grids face unique vulnerabilities, such as high operational costs due to imported fuels, limited redundancy and exposure to extreme weather events. Green construction supports the addressing of such challenges by considering energy efficient elements that will dramatically reduce energy demand and support immediate on-site regeneration.
Going far beyond reducing utility bills, energy efficient buildings help to strengthen island resilience and the ability to withstand environmental and economic shocks. By reducing dependence on vulnerable power grids and imported fossil fuel, operational costs decrease and crucial resources are freed up. When integrated with renewable energy systems, these buildings represent the foundation of a self-sufficient, climateadapted future for island communities worldwide.
Retrofitting existing structures with basic energy efficient features and smart building controls can significantly improve energy performance and occupant comfort in challenging tropical conditions, while solar energy systems such as rooftop photovoltaic panels can transform buildings into resilient microgrids, boosting energy security, efficiency and resilience by reducing dependence on external supply.
Building Future Resilience
As climate change continues to intensify, green construction technologies, once considered optional, have become essential components of island resilience strategies. The construction industry and building sectors in islands such as Barbados and throughout the Caribbean stand at a pivotal place in embracing sustainable practices that address immediate challenges while also building long-term adaptive capacity.
The future of island construction lies in integrated approaches that recognize the interconnectedness of climate resilience, water conservation and energy independence. By incorporating these elements from the earliest design phases, the construction industry can deliver buildings that not only withstand current challenges but adapt to future conditions as they evolve.
Hydrate Caribbean: Transforming Barbados, One Refill At A Time
Since its launch in February 2020, Newport Water’s ‘Hydrate Caribbean’ programme has been on a mission to transform hydration in Barbados. Five years on, with backing from corporate and individual sponsors, 29 hydration stations now provide free, purified water to schools, public spaces, and key tourism hotspots across the island.
More than just a clean water source, these stations represent a powerful solution to two major challenges: plastic pollution and accessible hydration.
Plastic waste is a persistent problem for Barbados. A school alone can generate over 67,000 plastic bottles per year, many of which end up polluting the environment. Hydrate Caribbean’s stations reduce the need for single-use bottles while encouraging a sustainable habit—refilling reusable bottles.
Access to pure drinking water is a critical factor in supporting academic performance. Even slight dehydration can drain energy levels and hinder concentration. Hydrate Caribbean seeks to prioritize drinking water options for our students.
The robust hydration stations, suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings, deliver 70 to 140 litres of chilled water per hour, over 250% more than traditional fountains. Stations are built to endure the toughest conditions, are free-to-use, and are accessible to everyone, regardless of age, height, or size.
The programme also addresses the issue of affordability. Students island wide are spending over $100,000 each year on water from vending machines. For many, purchasing bottled water is uneconomical, leading them to either skip hydration entirely or rely on outdated and unsanitary fountains and troughs.
One student at the Luther Thorne Memorial Primary School, the most recent launch, captured the impact: “The water is really cold, it’s the right temperature and it tastes really nice...I am glad there is a water station at my school”.
As Hydrate Caribbean marks its 5-year anniversary in February 2025, the programme has achieved remarkable milestones, including saving over 3.16 million plastic bottles through free refills. Hydration stations have been installed at public locations such as Golden Square Freedom Park and the Hastings
Boardwalk, logging thousands of fills.
Additionally, 17 public and private primary and secondary schools, across Barbados, have reduced their carbon footprint and embraced healthier water choices with the help of these stations
Hydrate Caribbean is made a reality through the support of partners and sponsors, whether by funding an entire station (full sponsorship) or participating in the crowdfunding (partial sponsors) effort.
Full sponsorship gives you the opportunity to fully brand the station and choose your desired school or public space.
Partial sponsors can contribute to the programme via our website, cash, direct transfer or cheque. All contributions collected go toward the amount required for installation and maintenance costs of each station. The Hydrate team will then select a location for the station from our network of hosts.
Want to host a station? Get in contact with us, and we will explore the possibility!
Together, we can build a future where hydration is free, sustainable, and accessible to everyone.
Visit: https://www.hydratecaribbean.com or call us at (246) 420-3590.
by Chris Hassell, President - Barbados Estate Agents and Valuers Association (BEAVA)
The allure of a perfect Barbados getaway or a comfortable long-term stay can quickly turn sour when encountering online rental scams. Unfortunately, both visitors and Barbadians are increasingly falling victim to fraudulent listings posted on social media platforms and online travel groups. Reports of individuals losing substantial sums of money are becoming more frequent, casting a shadow over the otherwise vibrant rental market.
There’s been a noticeable increase in the number of false rental listings circulating online, where perpetrators deceive potential tenants by demanding deposits or lease payments for properties that don’t exist. These scams often involve the use of reputable online payment systems, allowing scammers to disappear with the money once transferred, leaving victims with no recourse. The “fake profile” of the property manager or owner becomes deactivated, leaving no trace.
Examples abound: travellers excited for their beach vacation transfer deposits for stunning-looking villas, only to find the listing vanished and the “property manager” unreachable. Locals seeking long-term rentals are similarly duped, contacting ‘agents’ for properties that either don’t exist or are already occupied and in some cases, where the scammer doesn’t have a listing agreement with the owner. These individuals steal the photos and intellectual property of established agents and market owners properties without their knowledge. This illegal practice goes against the strong standards and ethics adhered to by all BEAVA agents.
Protecting yourself from these scams requires vigilance and a proactive approach. Here’s a practical guide to safeguarding your finances and ensuring a safe rental experience in Barbados:
1. Conduct Thorough Research:
Go beyond the initial listing. Dive deeper into the property and its location. If possible, reach out to previous visitors or reviewers for firsthand accounts of their experiences. This can provide valuable insights and help identify potential red flags.
2. Engage in Direct Communication:
Schedule a face-to-face Zoom call with the owner or property manager. This allows you to assess their legitimacy and ask crucial questions. Request permission to record the session for your records. Legitimate owners will likely have no issue with this.
3. Verify Credentials:
Check the Barbados Estate Agents and Valuers Association (BEAVA) website at beavainc.com to confirm if the property manager or real estate agent is registered and reputable. This step can help you distinguish legitimate professionals from fraudulent individuals.
4. Utilize Established Booking Platforms:
For short-term rentals, prioritize established booking engines like Airbnb and VRBO. These platforms often offer verified listings and secure payment systems, providing a layer of protection against scams.
5. Leverage Local Knowledge:
Research content from local influencers who may have stayed at the property or have insight into the area. Take advantage of Barbados’s small community nature and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Local knowledge can be invaluable in identifying suspicious listings.
6. Exercise Caution and Trust Your Instincts:
If a rental deal seems too good to be true, it likely requires further investigation. Be wary of unusually low prices or overly enthusiastic offers. Trust your instincts and proceed with caution.
Reporting Suspicious Activity:
If you encounter a suspicious online real estate advertisement or have concerns about a potential scam, report it to the Barbados Estate Agents and Valuers Association (BEAVA) via email at admin@beavainc.com. By working together, we can help protect both visitors and locals from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes and maintain the integrity of the Barbados rental market.
An Exclusive Investment. A Lifestyle Like No Other. Welcome to The
Fitts.
Where luxury meets investment.
The Fitts is an exclusive boutique apart-hotel set along the pristine shores of Barbados’ West Coast. Designed for modern living, this oceanfront collection of contemporary residences offers both a refined lifestyle and strong rental returns.
• Breathtaking beachfront views from every residence
• Prime West Coast location, minutes from fine dining and world-class amenities
• Fully managed luxury living with exceptional rental potential
• A seamless investment opportunity in one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after destinations
Ownership is now available through One Caribbean Estates.
For private viewings and investment details: +1 246 537 2200
