Dream House | A grand vision realised in Coral Gardens

The owner of this Dream House left Jamaica as a child for the United States, and would become an investment banker and a real estate developer. On her return to the island, she purchased this property in the sought-after residential area of Coral Gardens, outside of Montego Bay, St James. But she hated the house! So, she demolished it and erected her dream mansion in its place.

The three-floor structure was built in 2014 on a one-third-acre lot. Spanning a voluminous 12,000 square feet, the residence incorporates arched openings and rounded walls throughout. There are 10 bedroom suites featuring balconies and ensuite bathrooms, with muscle-relaxing whirlpool tubs, walk-in showers, and floating double-sink vanities.

Living and dining areas, a pool table section that serves as the social hub of the house, together with an island dining counter, kitchen and pantry, add to the home’s welcoming spatial offerings. Through the windows, the spectacular blue Caribbean Sea always commands attention.

Interior details include: wood-look porcelain tiles in bedrooms, draped arched French windows, recessed lighting, and granite kitchen and bathroom countertops. The furniture, some locally made, is of traditional style, complemented by embroidered area rugs and artisanal artwork.

The exterior paints a picture of marked peach-toned walls and a Spanish-style roof, which unifies with double gazebos by a freeform swimming pool and its built-in hot tub. A motor court allows for extensive private parking, with a hardscape of interlocking bricks.

Several finishing items in the home’s construction, tiles, roofing, etc., were specially brought in from Europe, so that they are unique to the building.

This home undeniably shows you how dreams can be manifested. 

Barry Rattray is a dream house designer and builder. Email feedback to barryrattray1@hotmail.com and lifestyle@gleanerjm.com.