We welcome 2022 in a spirit of constant adventure as we continue to comprehensively explore and uncover uncharted, distinct and surprising residential architecture across the land, bringing local and international interest to inform, inspire, and spark the interest of a nation hungry for positive distractions.
Caves have fascinated mankind for thousands of years as they were inhabited and used for exploration, scientific research and recreation. Some of the world’s most famous architectural edifices have been built, with these natural underground caverns being the central feature of the overall design.
In the western part of the island, you will discover an exciting dream house on a stunning limestone cliff with a mind-blowing hidden secret, hidden from scrutinizing eyes. The property is exceptionally situated on top of two underground caves that reveal a natural seawater pool and built-in stone benches. This is another whole world of extraordinary living and dining for the residents, below the surface, they watch from under the ground the dolphins playing in the deep blue waters.
So, without further ado, let’s take advantage of the wonders of this one-acre estate, 15 feet above sea level, with its gorgeous sea views and fresh sea breeze from most windows.
The architectural design centers around a pool of water (with a communally located whirlpool spa), swimming between the two parts of the two-storey house, dividing and unifying the structure simultaneously. What is unique and interesting is that the one house has two distinct exterior properties: traditional and modern, combined as one.
The three-bedroom, three-bathroom home (including a small one-bedroom cottage) unveils polished bamboo and jatoba floors upstairs, with the main opening to a wraparound porch.
The kitchen is duplex in a very traditional and modern design, offering a dining room with a ceramic tile floor, with a seating area that opens widely through 10-foot-high glass doors onto the balcony. There is also a double garage area under the metal roof system.
The very comfortable, airy and creamy interior is furnished with exotic pieces imported from Bali, Indonesia and rooted in nature.
With jobs in the tourism industry, the owners, husband and wife, built the home on West End Road, Negril, Westmoreland, 11 years ago.
Whether it is above ground or below ground, the house ensures an ideal leisure lifestyle beyond the usual and expected.
Barry Rattray is a designer and builder of a dream home. Email feedback to barry-rattray@hotmail.com and lifestyle@gleanerjm.com.