Dream House | A precious, architectural gem

Since ancient times, it has been in great demand as a rare decorative item, and is one of the most revered of its kind on the planet.

This, my friends, is the diamond – considered the ultimate symbol of eternal love.

South Africa is the global leader in diamond production, and Antwerp, Belgium, has been for more than five centuries, the diamond capital of the world, trading a staggering 86 per cent of all rough diamonds.

Meet Ulrich Daems, born in Antwerp, a former member of the Antwerp Diamond Exchange, who was in the diamond business for 35 years. He is 69 years old.

Greet also, Faylene Deans, from Port Antonio, Portland, who owned a shop in London, purveying jewellery etc. They are both 69 years old.

Their lives would cross paths fortuitously when they met in Antwerp 40 years ago, and it was, as they say, love at first sight. Yet, that initial, romantic, chance encounter bore no fruit and they did not see each other for another 15 long years, until they met again in Antwerp. This time around, the seeds of endearment were firmly planted by both of them and they are now reaping the benefits of being diamond partners forever!

They have both lived in Jamaica for 25 years now, and this is their precious architectural gem, gleaming on a bluff in Portland, at Salt Creek, Anchovy, Port Antonio – demonstrating their resolve and determination to be unique.

What a shock! What hits you head on, is the themed architecture and interior decoration of the residence. A striking, contrasting presentation in stark black and white, with roof, walls, ceilings, floor and wall tiles. Doors, locally crafted furniture, curtains, bedspreads, bathroom and kitchen fittings, etc – literally any and everything in black and white or a mix of both colours.

A flawless combination of a timeless, classic, and chic look, representing sophistication, style, and purity.

The colour palette is not the only valuable asset that this house is known for. Equally impressive, is the dazzling natural rock landscape against the coastline, with the rhythmic foamy waves crashing against the shore.

Within this rockery, multi-levels of stone pathways, built-in seating by water’s edge have been carved out, as well as stone waterfalls cascading, and fountains shooting upwards, along with sparkling saltwater swimming pools (one for kids, the other for adults). Also, poolside showers; gazebos for hanging out; and terraces with loungers, to laze the days away. Again, all in black and white.

Erected by the couple of on a half-acre plot in 2006, with praiseworthy 180-degree views of sea and mountain, the house sleeps up to 16 persons in eight queen-size bedrooms, with the master bathroom having its own Jacuzzi. Relax in the living room, with lounge and dining area. The kitchen whets your architectural appetite with its presence. The house also has a staff quarters which include two bedrooms, and there are two garages.

The rooftop courts another spa experience under its very own gazebo, with a wet bar and outdoor kitchen.

A question before we go: Why all the black and white? Simple answer: Faylene is black and Ulrich is white.

- Barry Rattray is a dream house designer and builder. Email: barry-rattray@hotmail.com or outlook@gleanerjm.com.