Dream House | Hillside Haven: A seven-acre playground of style, serenity

There are dream houses and then there is this one, planted on a seven-acre, undulating hillside estate, bounded by the parishes of St James to the east and Westmorland to the south.

Yes, my friends, we have arrived at what can only be described as an architectural extravaganza. The likes of this, very few of us have ever come across in our lifetime. A house where your peace of mind is its only concern. It is blessed with stupendous sea vistas, superior craftsmanship, lavish appointments, and unparalleled comfort.

Conceived and executed as a fusion of both traditional and contemporary artistry, the enormity of the outstretched, mainly single-storey building is staggering! With its elegant, timeless appeal, we are enticed to explore areas, such as the living and dining spaces (indoor and outdoor), disappearing into each other. An island kitchen and a media room follow. Continuing, we have seven king-size bedded bedroom suites (with sitting areas), each with its own marble finished bathroom. Believe it or not, the 2,500-square-foot principal bedroom suite with his and her closets, beams with its own mind-boggling-sized, carpeted sitting room. Its deluxe bathroom beckons with his and her (indoor-outdoor) walk-in showers and a soaking tub.

Sky-high ceilings, polished hardwood floors with a mirror-like shine, marble countertops, and recessed lighting add to the charm of the space, enhanced with classy furniture and fine décor. Jamaican and international art pieces grace walls, and a Sonos surround-sound system sings throughout.

The core of the physical layout is the brick poolside courtyard, showing a large upper entertainment balcony with a wet bar, directly above the lower dining, seating verandah. Another wet bar is located within the courtyard, serving the unique solar-heated swimming pool. A state-of-the-art fitness centre is located below an elevated, octagonal gazebo, reached by a bridge.

A kitchen garden and a fruit orchard invaluably provide for the dining table, all within meticulously landscaped grounds, revealing attractive walkways.

The edifice was erected in 2006 and remarkably renovated in 2014 by its subsequent owner. No expense was spared in its execution. We see it, and we feel it.

An exclusive private beach, golf and tennis are minutes away down the hill to satisfy further desires. The property was once part of a much larger sugar and coconut plantation.

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