Finding Paradise

This sprawling oceanfront estate in the Bahamas was designed as the ultimate beach getaway for the owners and their friends

- Karen Tee

When it comes to dream vacation homes, scenic destinations such as the beautiful islands of the Caribbean are sure to rank high on the list. And for one family, this dream turned to reality on the idyllic Paradise Island in the Bahamas with the construction of an expansive 1.4ha oceanfront estate.

Comprising eight buildings including a spacious main villa, guest cottage and pool house spread across the grounds, it is no surprise that their sprawling holiday home is sometimes mistaken for a resort. Its buildings are connected by various courtyards, terraces and lush gardens that contribute to its tranquil environment.

CLASSIC TWIST

The clients, who had collaborated with Philadelphia-based firm Marguerite Rodgers Interior Design for more than a decade on various projects including corporate headquarters and residences in the US, trusted the studio to bring their vision of their dream vacation home to life.

“Their vision was a home that is classical in style, but not formal. It may have highceilinged rooms with generous proportions, but these spaces are approachable and warm, and simultaneously elegant and comfortable,” says Meg Rodgers, president and creative director of Marguerite Rodgers Interior Design.

“We strayed from a direct translation of the structures’ classical English style. Instead, we strove for a sophisticated and modern look, for airy rooms filled with space and light. We also (added) elements like gracious verandas for sun- and rain-protected outdoor living, steeply sloping roofs to quickly shed water, and generous shutters to control exposure to the sun’s rays.”

STARTING AFRESH