Design Anguilla Issue 03 - The Modern Design Issue by DO Media Ltd.

www.DESIGNANGUILLA.COM

architecture interiors art fashion life

the Modern design issue

Go Modern! Create spaces that are uniquely yours

Getting it Here

tips for stress-free 10material sourcing

Everywhere water, water,

La Vue Boutique Inn is a family owned and operated inn, which offers all the charm and intimacy of a traditional inn, but with all the amenities of a fullservice hotel. The Hotel features 32 over-sized and affordable rooms, each designed with comfort and relaxation in mind with king-sized beds, air conditioning, efficiency kitchen, free internet WIFI, cable TV, private bath and private balcony. The Pool with a Bar and Grill guarantees pure relaxation and comfort while enjoying what we have to offer. There is an eclectic boutique with amazing Caribbean selections to appeal to varying fashion senses. We have also added a fully equipped conference room for hosting seminars, meetings and similar events.

LA VUE BOUTIQUE INN

Back Street, South Hill

r (264)- 497-6623 or (264)- 462-6626 h info@lavueanguilla.com p www.lavueanguilla.com

Fun food meets flair at

Flavours Restaurant Open for breakfast and dinner, Flavours combines the best of Caribbean fusion cuisine with today’s more casual restaurant ambiance. Capturing the amazing view of Sandy Ground Bay sets a tone for dining that is unmatched. An uninterrupted sightline of the restaurant kitchen brings a whole new meaning to the words “open concept”, where Executive Chef, Shane Hughes, and his team invite guests to relish in the theatre of food preparation. Dubbed the “Steak House” from its prior endeavours, Flavours has kept true to its brand of offering guests premium beef steaks and ribs. Culinary tributes to land and sea collectively amass to bring you a stellar menu that includes signatures of the freshest seafood and a variety of meat cuts. The dining room at Flavours has been designed to accommodate 300 guests seated and up to 500 at standing room only, making it ideal for any large events, private parties or weddings. Whilst the restaurant’s regular setting for nightly dining offers an area for lounging and a deck for which its canapés can be sampled in between. Flavours has certainly become the long awaited multifunctional spot for nightly entertainment with a favoured twist. With the team at Flavours, committed to ensuring that guests’ experiences exceed their expectations, Anguilla’s natural aptitude for hospitality is nurtured. Flavours provides professional service with such a rich and distinct understanding that can be further customized to the needs of its guests. The restaurant offers private event packages that are hand selected by the Chef and feature a variety of his cuisine specialties from which to choose. Owners Kirk and Joylynn Hughes, spoke about their vision to create a fun and unique atmosphere in the restaurant. “We strive to bring you the very best, even at the very least, to satisfy your perfect Anguilla dining experience.”

Breakfast: Tuesday- Sunday: 7-10am Sunday Brunch: 10:30am- 2:30pm Dinner: Monday- Saturday: 6:30- 10:00pm

FLAVOURS RESTAURANT At La Vue Boutique Inn Back Street, South Hill

r (264)- 497-6623 or (264)- 462-6626 h events@lavueanguilla.com

contents

12 IN EVERY ISSUE

10 Pro File

40 Detail Oriented

6 Editor’s Note

Evelyn Hodge

14 Pro File Nick Dellinger

18 Material World Accent Walls Sourcing 101

24 Conversation Ian “Sugar George” Edwards

54 Nature’s Design Little Bay

58 Wine & Dine Fit for purpose

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Focusing on the details takes this contemporary beachfront home to award-winning heights.

46 Water, Water, Everywhere An fanatical obsession with water views inspires a modern Anguillian masterpiece.

FEATURES

12 Pro File

www.designanguilla.com

DEPARTMENTS Wanda Brooks

8 Contributors 62 Advertisers Directory 64 Island Map 66 Event Calendar 68 Hotels & Restaurants

24 SPECIAL SECTION: MODERN ANGUILLA 28 Essay Modern design’s role in creating a unique Anguillian architectural heritage.

34 Vox Pop Local designers share their views on modern design.

36 Go Modern! Design ideas to create spaces that are uniquely yours.

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editor's note

DESIGN ANGUILLA ISSUE 03 April 2013 Contributors Maris Edwards Andy Connor Frank Hamilton Trudy Nixon Cover shoot credits Joy von Tiedemann

design for our way of life What exactly is modern design? If we trace its roots, we will tend to wind up in the

suited to the island. An architecture that

it was rebuilding after having bombed itself

eschews material excess seems tailor-made

to near oblivion. People needed to restore

to Anguilla’s laid-back, easy-going way of

their lives quickly. Materials were scarce –

life. The great weather makes it logical to

everything had gone into the various war

want design that is open and receptive of the

efforts; manpower was equally challenging

outdoor environment. In many ways, this new generation of

been casualties. The modernist movement

Anguillian design is a celebration of the

grew from the rubble and turmoil, with an

qualities that make Anguilla desirable: great

unstated goal to do more with less.

weather, laid back lifestyle, nice people, and

Clean lines were preferred to the ornate.

an unspoilt natural environment.

Finishing was kept to a minimum with a

This issue looks at modern design in

certain reverence for the beauty that lay

Anguilla. We speak to Anguillian modern

within an object’s form and its materials.

designers to find out what it means to

What we call “modern” today is a direct

them. It also looks at the new generation

off-shoot of, and inspired by, the thinking

of Anguilla architecture and how this has

of that time. It refers to an ideal. How we’d

changed our thinking and how it can lead to

like to live and how we’d like to experience

creating a new local architectural heritage.

our environments. In many ways, it is the ultimate in aspirational design. www.designanguilla.com

In many ways, modern design is well-

period of post WWI and WWII Europe when

– tens of millions of able-bodied males had

construction methods and design.

Anguilla’s recent property boom saw a record number of homes, luxury villas and hotels being built in a short period of time.

Finally, we suggest practical ways that you, our readers, can tap into this way of thinking to create places and spaces that properly reflect your way of life. We hope you enjoy it.

What it also saw was an influx of international architects and designers whose work has

Orrett H. Wynter

changed the local landscape. It allowed for

Editor

a sharing of knowledge about materials,

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Photography Dante Alexander / ArcPoint Design Group Ltd. Thierry Dehove Nick Dellinger Rene Guinto Josveek Huligar Trudy Nixon Derrys Richardson Allan Ruan Joy von Tiedemann Orrett H. Wynter Contact P.O. Box 5050 The Valley Anguilla, BWI E-mail: info@designanguilla.com web: www.designanguilla.com www.facebook.com/designanguilla www.twitter.com/designanguilla Advertising Inquiries sales@designanguilla.com www.designanguilla.com/advertise Read Online www.designanguilla.com/digital

Other Photo Credits sofa, pg. 6: Can Stock Photo Inc. / Elenathewise Frank Hamilton portrait, pg. 8: Frank Hamilton bath sink, pg. 22: Can Stock Photo Inc. / wuttichok Sugar George awards, pg. 27: Janine Edwards

Design Anguilla Magazine is published four times a year and is distributed at hotels, villas, restaurants and ports of entry in Anguilla. This publication has been compiled and reproduced with the utmost care to ensure that the information is up to date and accurate. However, the information may contain inaccuracies or typographical errors. The publisher accepts no responsibility for such typographical or other errors. No part of Design Anguilla Magazine may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent. The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those of Design Anguilla Magazine.

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contributors Trudy Nixon u Trudy Nixon is originally from the UK but has lived and worked in Anguilla for 10 years. A previous Executive Director of the Anguilla Hotel and Tourism Association (AHTA) she now runs a PR and Marketing Consultancy called True Communications. She misses her family and friends but nothing much else about the UK (definitely not the weather). She loves her adopted home and her Anguilla “family” including AARF dogs Sweetiepie Woofydog and Godiva. Despite being a working girl Trudy, is still closely in touch with her ‘inner tourist’ and can regularly be spotted enjoying Anguilla’s many restaurants, bars and beaches. Trudy gladly shares some of her insight to Anguillian dining in Wine & Dine on page 58.

t Frank Hamilton, B.Arch., MRAIC A graduate of McGill University’s and the University of British Columbia’s schools of architecture, Frank’s career has seen him work with many architects, and on diverse projects including EXPO’67, a Conservatory and Botanical Garden for the city of Toronto, as well as the King Abdulazziz University in Saudi Arabia.

p Maris Edwards

He has designed a number tropical resorts

Loves all things art-related: photography,

and residences, including the Radisson/

magazine writing, dining (on vegan food

Troumasse and Jade Mountain Resorts in

that is delicious, beautifully presented and

St Lucia; as well as this issue’s cover feature

cooked by someone else); teaching; design;

Villa Kishti on Blackgarden Bay.

conversation. She is the mother of one

Frank resides in Toronto, where he teaches

curious eight year old who is helping her

architectural design at Ryerson University.

to learn the art of parenting. Maris owns

A modern architect at heart, he opines on

Inspire Décor & Design, an interior design

the role of modern design in creating a new

store in North Hill; she has done a number of

Anguillian design heritage on page 28.

interior design projects on island. Her latest entrepreneurial project is Inspire Naturally

Andy Connor u

– a 100% petroleum-free, chemical-free,

Andy W. Connor was born and raised in

natural body care lifestyle boutique located

beautiful Anguilla, British West Indies. He

within Inspire Décor & Design.

is best known as the owner of Andy’s Car Rentals (www.andyrentals.com), but is also a licensed seaman and author of the monthly tourist publication, Let’s Talk About Anguilla.

www.designanguilla.com

Andy is a self-proclaimed “Beach Hunter” of

Anguilla’s pristine beaches, both exposed and hidden, he is also an avid cyclist and waterlover; fishing and sailboat racing at every available opportunity. Join Andy on page 54 as he explores Little Bay beach in Nature’s Design.

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Photo by Christian Gomez

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passion for fashion jewellery INTERVIEW BY: Deborah Wynter

A love of jewellery coupled with a curious dilemma spurred this lady into expressing her artistic side. Wanda Brooks relates how she turned her hobby into Wanda's Stationery & Gifts. How did you get started?

What else do you make?

My former religion never allowed it, so I

I make different crafts. I like to

grew up not wearing any jewellery. In 2000

work with shells so I make different

because I had a love for jewelry and my

souvenir objects from shells like

ears aren’t pierced, it all originated from

birds, turtles, owls, butterflies and,

that—remodeling earrings. I would purchase

pen and pencil holders.

www.designanguilla.com

a necklace with earrings and usually the earrings are for pierced ears; then I had to

Where do you get these shells?

rearrange the earrings to fit on a clip-on.

Shell hunting and purchasing.

As I kept on rearranging the jewelry,

Sometimes I might see a unique

sometimes I would purchase a necklace,

design on the internet and we may not

love the beads but not the design, hence

have that type of shell here in Anguilla

I would redesign it to suit myself. People

so I might end up purchasing that shell.

would comment on how much they like the

I would go to the beach as well, especially

way I did it and that motivated me into doing

after a hurricane. You’ll find a lot of different

it for a business.

shells, rocks and driftwood washed ashore.

10 | DESIGNANGUILLA

Are your pieces only for women? I do for men as well like necklaces and pendants. The men’s jewelry are mainly wooden. I also do a kid’s line of jewelry, and I recently had my first Christmas line. Was this something you enjoyed as a child or is it something you picked up as a adult? The jewelry making started as an adult but I enjoyed the craft from childhood. It was something I did in school as a child and I used to enjoy it. How often do you have showings of your crafts & jewellery? For special occasions: Valentine’s, Easter, The Valley Street Fairs, Summer, Christmas and sometimes maybe one or two showings in-between those events. How did ‘Mumbo Jumbo’ come about? One day I was on vacation and I was bored for a while. I was playing around with three strings put together and I started to put different color pearls on each string and my niece, RyAnna Stott, approached me and said aunty what are you making and I said hmmm just a mumbo jumbo and she said yes that name suits it very well. At that first time when I made that colorful mumbo jumbo, I came back and showed it to my co-workers at D3 Enterprises and they liked it so I made a few more. Ever since that day I made a lot of sales on that mumbo jumbo in various colours, and that name got stuck to some of my pieces. Do you do custom orders or do you just sell the items that you’ve designed? If someone comes in with their own design then I will try it out and see how best I can make it

Turn on s! ing v a s e h t

for them but most of my designs come from inspiration as I play around with the beads. In terms of the materials, is it difficult to source them here?

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There are some that I can source here but 90% of it is sourced from overseas because there is greater variety. What do you do when you’re not making jewellery? I plan to have a shop one of these days, maybe here at home or you never know where it will end up and depending on how good its going. I have faith it will prosper. What’s next? Well basically the jewelry making is my hobby. It takes up a lot of my time but I am very much involved in the church. We remodeled our living room, dining room and one of the bedrooms and turned them into a church for the past 10 years. My husband, Victor, is the senior pastor and we hope to one day have our own church building.

(264) 584-9047 (264) 729-9047 ohsteelman@hotmail.com

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I have some necklaces from Papua New Guinea and New Zealand, as well as some pieces from Cuba, St. Martin and, of course, Anguilla. It’s an interesting mix of African and Caribbean art, and each piece has its own story. Would you consider bringing contemporary art into the mix? I think there is room for it. I am open to learning about other people’s taste in art and about the people themselves. My customers mainly ask for souvenirs, Caribbean art, or traditional arts and craft. I try to showcase local artists as well

afro-carib artist INTERVIEW BY: Deborah Wynter

With a Master’s degree in Water & Environment Management, running an art gallery might have been the last thing Evelyn Hodge would have expected to be doing. The Ugandan-born Evelyn Hodge as she shares how her African roots is at the heart of what she does.

because not all of them have a platform for exposure. Do you create any of the pieces yourself? Yes. I do some of the traditional paintings and wooden souvenirs. I try to find different ways to use common objects. I used to look at a shell as just a shell but now I look at it and wonder how I can make something creative out of it. I also make quite a bit of the jewelry. As a little girl I would sit on my grandmother’s lap and she would give me beads and say, “Start making your own”. I didn’t have to make anything perfect but she just wanted to pass on

Why did you decide to open the Gallery? I have been inspired by art since I was a child.

the knowledge, which is why I feel compelled to pass it on to my children.

Science is my background but after a while I decided that art is where I want to be. Art is an expression

Did you do any art while growing up?

of our culture, and I don’t want my kids to lose the

I studied it for two years in high school but, back home, art is

African side of their heritage. Wherever they go, they’ll

frowned upon. If you’re an artist, you’re not seen as someone

know where they came from and they can pass it on for

who has made it. I guess that’s why I didn’t follow it then.

generations. I love learning about different cultures. I think our

How do your parents feel about you doing it now?

culture is who we are, so if you lose that then you don’t

They have been very supportive. I guess with the world evolving

know who you are. This is a way for me to preserve

and a lot of things changing, people’s minds start to change too.

African culture. There are people of African descent

I think because I have proven myself academically, my parents are

here and I want to put them in touch with their African

satisfied, so now I can happily follow my art.

side. www.designanguilla.com

What’s in store for the future? Where are most of your pieces from?

While I like to plan, I also like to play it by ear. I think people should

We have pieces from all over Africa. The majority of the

try to keep evolving until they have arrived at a career that makes

antiques are from the Congo because they have such

them happy. There’s a need to be dynamic; you have to be a

rich art and rich culture. They are a very skilled people. A few items are from Haiti. Haitians find art and

jack-of-all-trades. Otherwise you suffer. This economy is a good time for many people to explore their God-given

beauty in objects that we might throw away. They

talents. I’m going to take baby steps and see

make art out of anything at their disposal.

what happens.

12 | DESIGNANGUILLA

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making #sexyfood INTERVIEW BY: Orrett H. Wynter

www.designanguilla.com

Often found tweeting about his daily culinary exploits, Straw Hat Restaurant’s executive chef might have small-town roots, but exudes big-city style in creating some of the most talked-about gourmet experiences on Anguilla. We catch up with Nick Dellinger as he shares his love of island life, his green thumb and passion for trying new, exciting things in the kitchen. Where are you from?

opened a restaurant in Iowa. It was called Porky’s Diner. There were

Southern Illinois. I grew up between there and Iowa. It’s kind of a

pork tenderloin sandwiches, classic cars and motorcycles. It was

rural, country area.

breakfast, lunch and dinner 6 days a week.

Where did you train?

What did you do there?

I went to a community college in S. Illinois, but cooking started as

I was the ‘soda jerk’. I would get the sodas, make all the malts, wash

a kid. My maternal grandparents had a restaurant, and my paternal

dishes…just running around doing whatever. I ultimately learned how

grandmother was just Italian [laughs]. She loved to cook. We always

to do everything. I started on a fryer in the kitchen and would help

had big family dinners. My grandmother’s restaurant was a little

the guys with their tickets, or plating. That’s when I knew I wanted to

country diner about two hours away. I used to spend my summers

do it professionally. Later, I moved to Portland, Oregon and worked

there, on the farm. When I was about 13, my mom and her husband

there for 5 years.

14 | DESIGNANGUILLA

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Portland has a nice restaurant scene, doesn’t it? Portland is awesome! The people are very progressive, very health-, and earthconscious. I later got recruited and moved to Las Vegas. That move was a big shock,

Photo: Nick Dellinger

but I knew it would be good for my career. When was this? About 4 years ago. I started at Nobhill Tavern at the MGM Grand – a Michael Mina restaurant. Then I moved to American Fish [another Mina restaurant] at Aria Hotel, where I was executive sous chef. There were four different methods of cooking fish. It

thought, “Why not?” I applied and got the

How has being in Anguilla influenced you?

was really cool and lots of fun.

job. I moved here to Straw Hat after a few

I’ve always liked local cuisine. Some of my

months. I love Anguilla; it’s very fun for

staff has been here for 10 years; they know

So how did you end up here?

me. When we closed for September and

exactly what local cuisine is. I learn from

Craigslist! I came here at the end of 2011,

October, the staff asked if was planning to

them as much as they learn from me. I like

at the start of the high-season. I wanted to

go home. I thought, “Vacation in Illinois…In

to use everything we have available here. We

leave Las Vegas. It was really loud, everyone

September? No. I think I’m gonna stay here.”

use a lot of plantain, for example, so I’ll take

was very flashy. I’m not very flashy; I’m a

I built the garden, cleaned the kitchen and

all the trimmings, and I’ll make a plantain

small town guy. I wanted to go back into a

sat on the beach. For me, this is a vacation.

puree with a scallop dish.

This was a small Italian restaurant, where

Tell me about the garden.

Favourite time of year for ingredients?

we only served lunch and dinner. Farmers

I had a hard time getting greens consistently.

I would say every season. Last year I got

would bring us greens grown down the

With help from a friend, we got a backhoe,

my first sour-sop, and I thought “what am I

street. Even here, we’ll have fishermen pull

outlined an area behind the restaurant and

going to do with this?” We did scallops with

their boats up and bring us fish right out of

started planting. We have arugula, mustard

pickled sour-sop. I didn’t know what I was

the sea.

lettuce, okra, cucumber, radishes, basil,

doing, I was just having fun. Being a chef is

hot peppers, lemongrass, dill, thyme, and

great; you don’t have to know what you’re

Did you know about Anguilla before?

cilantro. Now, every night before service, I’ll

doing. You know methods, but cooking is

I didn’t. I was looking on Manhattan’s

pick the tiniest bit of arugula or a flowering

a blank canvas. It’s fun to take something

craigslist and saw an ad for an executive

bud of cilantro and I use that to garnish my

people are used to and use it differently.

chef at Koal Keel restaurant in Anguilla. I

dishes. It’s really fresh and sexy.

smaller restaurant, like the one in Portland.

Any signature dishes? I really like making gnocchi (a soft Italian dumpling), and pasta…anything Italian, just because that’s my roots. I remember rolling gnocchi when I was 8 years old. My favourite thing to cook, though, is fish. I love to run a sauté station and just cook fish all night. Do you cook at home? Why? I’m single; I just take food home from

16 | DESIGNANGUILLA

I will. Right now, on my day off, I’ll go get a burger and I sleep. Photo: Nick Dellinger

www.designanguilla.com

here. If I have someone at home to cook for,

When you eat out, where do you go? My favourite is Dolce Vita in Sandy Ground and Sand Bar next door to that. Also Andy’s in The Valley.

Must-have ingredient? Sherry vinegar. A touch of sherry vinegar to almost anything, really, can make it pop. Must-have kitchen tool? Spoons! My grandma gave me two spoons from when I was a kid and they follow me everywhere. If you send me somewhere to cook, that’s what I’m packing. Anything else you’re passionate about? I love gardening. I also really like to build things. I love woodwork. One thing I want to learn is glass-blowing. I would love one day to blow all the wine decanters and water carafes for a small restaurant. It would be cool to say “Not only did I grow the food in the garden, but I also cooked it and blew the glass used to pour your wine.” Any chefs you admire? Eric Suniga, the executive chef at Culinary Dropout in Las Vegas. There’s also Andrew Garrett in Portland. He has his own brand of hot sauce called NW Elixirs. I remember helping him make the very first batch. Also Jude Messenger, a friend from New Zealand. ‘Simple, but nice’ is his favourite thing to say. It’s written on the inside of one of my recipe books. Food doesn’t have to be complex; it can be great if you keep it simple. Let the flavours do what they’re supposed to do… let the fish be the fish. The first guy who really taught me was a Danish master chef. I was 19 years old, in the culinary program at Rend Lake College, looking to learn. After a day of being there his sous chef quit and he looks at me and said “You’re up.” I put school on hold for that year and the next six months he taught me everything. He taught me recipes that I still use in the kitchen sometimes. He encouraged me to be super creative and bend the rules with food. It’s not fun if you’re not trying something new. Tonight, I’m making curried cauliflower gnocchi. Ever done that before? No. It’s on special. We have some local mahi, some mustard greens from the garden, golden raisins and capers. I think it will be nice. I keep telling my guys to raise the bar; let’s show off, show them what we can do. I have some great talent here. I’ll walk around saying “Let’s see some sexy food, man!” Now they’re all excited and saying the same thing. It’s fun, we have a great time. Tell me something most people don’t know about you? I’m really open; I don’t have a lot of hidden things. I like country music - I grew up in southern Illinois, that’s all my grandparents

Lloyd's Bed & Breakfast is located on Crocus Hill, three minutes walk to Crocus Bay. Lloyd's is elegant with a repetition of architectural detail patterns, creative airflow and strong relationship between indoor/ outdoor spaces. The subtle hand craftsmanship seen thoughout the property is engaging.

would listen to. I also like to sew. [laughs]

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Country music and sewing? That might hurt your reputation.

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[laughs hysterically] I don’t have a rep! I am who I am. Print it if you want. I’m an open book.

materialworld

back against

the wall

any homes can feel boring and cold,

a weekend. For more drama, however, consider

even after putting in furniture and some

thinking in three dimensions. Using a different

decoration, particularly when lots of

material can be a very dynamic and exciting way

concrete, often painted white, is used. Consider creating a focal, or accent, wall. By

www.designanguilla.com

The accent wall has long been a go-to strategy by homeowners and interior designers to add some interest to a room. We look at some of the materials that can be used to create unique and interesting accent walls.

of creating interest in a room. The juxtaposition of a different kind of material, preferably in its natural

adding a bit of colour or texture to a wall, or two, the

state, adds contrast, texture, depth and visual appeal

impact of the white walls can be softened, drawing

right away. Accent walls are particularly useful in

the eye and creating a point of interest within a room.

expansive spaces, allowing a designer, or homeowner

Usually the accent wall is the first thing that people see when entering a room. Accent walls can also be

to break up the space, visually. There is a wide variety of materials that can be

used to define a separate area in a larger space. In

used. Consider using a unique material such as stone,

an open-plan house, you can use an accent wall to

tile, a hardwood, or even brick. Decorative tiles can

define a smaller reading area, for example.

also be a fun accent. We explore some interesting

By far the simplest, and most popular way to do this is with a gallon of paint and a few hours over

18 | DESIGNANGUILLA

material choices that can be used to give your accent walls some real zing.

Grasscloth

Brick

A hardwood wall is a great way to add

Similar to regular wallpaper in its application,

Quite possibly the original accent wall. It

warmth to a room. Hardy varieties such as

this material is a great way to add natural

will give a good grounding to otherwise

Greenheart or Mahogany are a few local

texture to your accent wall. Manufactured

modern rooms. While traditionally red brick

favourites, but the choice of material is

from long strips of dried natural plants, such

is easiest to find, there are other colours

only limited by imagination (or availability).

as jute, grass, or hemp, the fibrous nature

that are available. Bring old-world charm

Thin planks installed horizontally give the

of the material allows it to hide the holes

into a modern space. Experiment with a

impression of a larger or longer room.

left back from removed picture hooks or

herringbone bonding pattern to offer some

Alternatively, choose pieces with varying

thumbtacks. It is a great way to add visual

uniqueness. Mix and match dark, with lighter

grains and install at different depths for a

depth to your walls in an eco-, as well as

shades of brick to break up any monotony.

3-D illusion.

budget-friendly way.

Hardwood

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materialworld

3D Wall Panels

Stone

Tile

A decidedly modern material in inspiration,

With the different kinds of stone available,

Not just for bathrooms and kitchens, tiles are

as well as execution, it is becoming a very

combined with the different sizes and

a great alternative to consider for an accent

popular way of creating a textured wall.

finishes, every wall will be unique. Anguilla

wall. The choice of colour, texture, finish,

Very modular, these panels allow the

stone is one such option. Local availability

quality and type of tile are endless. Tile is also

patterns to be replicated seamlessly over a

and familiarity among local builders makes

a great option since it is fairly easy to source.

large area. Although they typically come in

this material worth considering. Travertine,

For a departure from the norm, consider

white, the panels are easily painted to work

marble and granite are popular, if expensive,

sheet mosaic tiles in glass or stone, to add

with, or contrast any colour scheme. Add

options. Natural or manufactured stone

visual texture and interesting patterns. For

some creative lighting to bring the three-

veneers and stone tiles give the look of high-

a high-end, modern look combine glossy,

dimensionality to life.

end masonry work, but at lower cost and

high-quality marble tiles with paper-thin

weight.

grout lines.

20 | DESIGNANGUILLA

materialworld

10 tips for

getting it here

The greatest difficulty you're likely to face when building on Anguilla is the procurement of materials. Here are some pointers to help you avoid some common pitfalls.

Buy locally Although getting the things you

Work with a sourcing specialist There

consolidating your shipments as much as

want, in the required quantities, and with

are a number of companies in Miami, for

possible and establishing a relationship with

the particular features you want, might be

example, that have considerable experience

a preferred clearing agent who can give you

difficult at times, if it’s available here, it simply

in sourcing for projects in the Caribbean.

the best pricing on your overall amount of

makes sense to buy it here. Once your time,

The advantage of working with one of them

business.

effort, shipping and duty costs are accounted

is that they often offer excellent pricing and

for, the cost can be equivalent, if not much

can rapidly pull together a variety of items

Get product warranties Things break. It’s as

more. Be practical and buy locally when it

like appliances, windows and cabinetry

simple as that. For big ticket items, such as

makes sense.

working from your plans and they will handle

major appliances, always retain and submit

a lot of the complexities for you.

your warranty information so you have

Plan to match construction phases Working

recourse in the event of malfunction, or

closely with your contractor and his schedule

Establish contractor & export accounts

will let you know exactly what is needed

If you are able to travel to Miami or Puerto

and, more importantly, when it is needed.

Rico, you can set up an export account

Get extras As said before, things break. It

There’s little point in prioritizing items such

with some electrical, plumbing or building

makes sense to get a few additional pieces of

as appliances, windows, doors, artwork and

material wholesalers. In some cases this will

smaller items, wherever possible, to protect

bathroom fixtures at the very beginning

give pricing very close to wholesale.

you in case of breakage, or if a particular

since, to start with, materials such as

other breakage.

style is discontinued in the future. This

plywood, steel, blocks and nails are far more

Leverage the internet Build.com is an

applies to things like floor and wall tiles, door

important. Other items can follow based on

incredible site that can offer you contractor

handles, faucets and light fixtures whose

the demands of the schedule.

prices if you set up an account with them.

styles tend to change frequently. You’ll save

This means HUGE savings over buying items

the headache of trying to find individual

Find a shipper/broker Involving a freight

like door handles at retail and you are getting

replacements in the future, as well as the

forwarder at the very beginning can allow

exactly the same quality. Use the reviews on

cost of shipping just that one item.

you to get much better pricing if you explain

websites like Amazon.com & Overstock.com

your project and they understand the total

to help you make decisions about items if

Keep a sourcebook If, for some reason,

volume of business that it represents. This

you don’t have a chance to see them in the

you don’t have extras available, having a

is really important, not only for your initial

showroom.

sourcebook with product numbers and

www.designanguilla.com

stress-free sourcing

shipments, which will be full containers, but

also closer to the end of your project when

Learn to Navigate customs Duties can add

you will tend to do LCL shipments.

up to be a major expense. Avoid this by

22 | DESIGNANGUILLA

manufacturer information makes replacing broken items much easier.

Hospital Grade Oxygen Transmission Repair Vehicle Servicing Brake Repair Welding Vehicle A/C Repair Vehic Diagnostics Vehicle Engine Repair and Rebuild Suspension Repair Wheel Alignment & Balancing Tyre Rotation Auto Parts & Fluids Available Auto Parts Sourcing

Tel: 264-297-7152 or 264- 235-7152 P. O. Box 681, Rock Farm, Anguilla

Email: raymelake@yahoo.com Web: www.beautomotive.com

conversation

self-taught to

perfection INTERVIEW BY: Orrett H. Wynter

Moving to Montserrat from Dominica in search of opportunity led Ian “Sugar George” Edwards’ down a path which started at construction labourer, progressed through a myriad of building trades, and has now culminated with him being one of the region’s premier Architectural Designer-Developers. A self-professed, insatiable desire for continuous learning, along with perseverance and attention to detail has seen him being recently honoured with five (5) prestigious International Awards for Architecture and Property Development in London in late 2012. In a rare personal interview, Sunset Homes’ owner talks about how he got his first break, his inspirations, biggest challenges and his love for football. How did architecture start for you?

and exposed me to the world of design. He

It started with construction. I got into

gave me the opportunity to also review his

construction to escape poverty. I had no

drawings and give him my opinion on design

formal architectural education. My high

challenges that I foresaw that would be faced

school education ended prematurely and I

during construction.

had to fend for myself. I wasn’t a particularly mischievous kid, but sometimes you, or the

I started doing my own designs. Then I

teachers, don’t quite know your potential or

started building what I drew.

maybe how to deal with certain personalities. How did you get the name Sugar George? I started off working in construction as a

We lived in a tiny house in Dominica, right

labourer; six months later, I called myself

on the main road and my dad used to have

a carpenter. By 21, I was a foreman. Within

many bottles of sugar. His name was George.

that time I was able to do all the different

As a child, my friends passing by could see all

trades. I learned very quickly, and it was never

these bottles of sugar. They started teasing

enough: carpentry, masonry, plumbing, etc.

me by calling me “Sugar George”, and I never

By 23, I started my own company with about

liked it.

7 guys. www.designanguilla.com

That usually makes it stick, doesn’t it? My best friend in Montserrat was an architect

Yes, it stuck. It followed me to Montserrat,

by the name of Ken Cassell. To talk his

and then here in Anguilla.

language when I was in his office in the afternoon, I had to get on his wavelength.

What came next?

I started dabbling, doing my own sketches,

I came here in 1996 after the volcanic crisis

and started designing ideas for some of the

in Montserrat, bought land and designed and

jobs I worked on. He took me under his wings

built my first villa.

24 | DESIGNANGUILLA

issue03 | 25

www.designanguilla.com

conversation

Which one was that?

is the Fountainhead, by Ayn

That was Splash Villa. Spyglass

Rand. Howard Roark [the lead

Villa, and our current home,

character] was an architect

followed after that. I had to

in school, and he dropped

figure out a lot of things myself.

out because he felt that the limiting, stifling. I think not

learn, isn’t it?

having a formal architectural

I call it Hard Knocks University

education has probably left me

when people ask me which

open to ideas. I think of myself

architecture school I went

as an open box; whatever

to. The recent awards and

information I get, I just throw

accolades achieved, put the

in there and try to sift it out. I

icing on the cake and allowed

get ideas from architects, from

me to really look back at what

tradesmen, from labourers. I

we’ve done over the years. At the

respect everyone’s opinion. I feel

awards ceremony, some of the

like a sponge, and I just try to

firms we competed against had

absorb everything.

Photo: Rene Guinto

knowledge he was getting was Sometimes it is the best way to

Spyglass Hill Villa

I feel like an artist having

my ‘pops’ and ‘mom’, had a

something in his head and

profound impact on my career

I never feel satisfied; I always

putting it on canvas. I’ve always

and my life. They have a passion

We were up against some really

want to learn more…to see

loved construction, not just

for creating exquisite homes

good designs, so to actually win

more. Whenever I travel, I pick

architecture. The best time I

and I learned a lot from our

was a great honour. After I got

up magazines. I look for ideas;

have is when I am on a site,

partnership over the years. We

the award, I met some architects

I look at other designs, other

when I’m actually, physically

are partners in the Beach House

from New York who got another

work, for design inspiration.

doing work – masonry,

and also worked together on the

carpentry or roofing. I like being

Le Bleu and Indigo properties at Little Harbour Estates.

800 architects on staff!

award the same night. One of them came up to congratulate

Well, they do say there’s no

on the site; I like the smell of

me and asked if I studied in

original idea. But what really

construction – the wood…not so

London or Yale. As I reached

inspires your work?

much the pressure treated stuff

Well, you are only as good as

out my hand to shake his, I

What inspires me is being able to

they have now [he laughs] but

your client, right?

replied, “I’m sorry I did not have

have an idea and, a year or two

the regular pine we used to have

At the end of the day, the client’s

the opportunity to finish high

later, see it unfold. I feel like an

before.

input means a lot. We always do

school.” He laughed and replied

artist. I always want to create.

that “many of the creative ones

Each time I travel, I see a small

Is there any person in the field

I like about what I do is that at

were not” [formally trained].

idea: a column, a foyer or water

you admire?

the end of the day, my clients

One of my favourite books

feature. It starts like that.

There are a few persons that

and I are [the] best of friends.

have played a great role in who

A lot of falling out happens on

I am today, like my friend Ken

projects but, fortunately, most of

Cassell. He was instrumental in

the people I’ve worked for, the

me actually starting architectural

friendships continue today.

it together. It’s like a dance. What

Le Bleu Villa

26 | DESIGNANGUILLA

Photo: Rene Guinto

www.designanguilla.com

work. I remember years ago, I did a sketch of a house, and I

What are you working on now?

thought it was good. If you look

Most of my work now is in

at it today, you’d probably think

Nevis. We’re building condos in

it was something your toddler

Nevis using a poured concrete

drew, so you’d say “good job”,

system to get buildings erected

but you know it’s not the best.

very quickly. We’re also doing

He complimented me and told

a bit of procurement for

me to keep trying, to keep at it.

some Caribbean islands -

He would always give pointers…

sourcing materials overseas:

so that was instrumental.

doors, windows, tiles, etc. Moving forward, I want to

John and Val Barker, who I call

concentrate on architecture and

procurement and less so on the

twice a week. In the offseason,

construction side of things. I

I might play once per week.

had 70 guys at one point, with

Football is my passion; I have a

different nationalities, languages.

team that I sponsor, coach and play with as well! We have a

It is difficult to manage so many

spirited team and we currently

personalities, isn’t it?

hold the title of AFA Champions

Those were some of my most

of the 2012-2013 League.

bizarre situations, having to deal with the personalities.

What about the bike you came here on?

What do you see in the future

The Harley? I figured, I have

for Anguilla architecture/real

three kids; I’ve provided for

estate?

them, so I thought I’d treat

I think Anguilla has a bright

myself on my birthday.

future. Right now we have about 200 villas; very well designed,

You’re lucky; my wife would

unique homes. Many of the

never allow me to get one.

architects are from overseas,

It’s easier to ask forgiveness than

but that doesn’t mean we can’t

to ask for permission. Just tell

learn from them. We’re seeing

her you got the deal of a lifetime.

more designs, innovative ideas,

That’s what I did!

larger projects... and we can tap into that.

Anything else to share? I remember when my wife, Jan,

What do you do when you’re

and I were younger; I would

not designing?

mention things that I wanted

The only thing that can take my

to do. I kept telling myself that I

mind off everything is when I

had to do these things—to never

play football.

give up. That’s what I’m instilling in my kids. If I can get them to

How often do you get to play?

approach life in this way, then I

During the season, I might play

would have done my job.

Picking up one of his 5 awards at the 2012-2013 International Property Awards

modernanguilla Essay

Photo: Thierry Dehove

Modern design’s role in creating a unique Anguillian architectural heritage.

Ani Villas Cutting-edge Modern Innovative use and juxtaposition of materials and décor. Numerous unique and custom finishes that extend from walls to floors and everything between.

n Europe, during the Renaissance, the rediscovering of the ‘ancient’

the iconic mom, dad and child in front of a box-like house topped by a

Greek and Roman civilizations, eventually, and I suppose inevitably,

triangular gable that many of us draw at an early age. There is a kind of

formulated the idea of style as a fundamental basis of architectural

unconscious assumption that this ”form” represents comfort, security,

design.

www.designanguilla.com

Around 1900, a group of free-thinking architects pondered the issues

safety— home—the good times of our formative lives. However, form does not determine moment by moment experience—it

of design and pared it down to an experiential aesthetic, - without

is what we see and feel in the natural and social worlds that appropriate

references to the past. Their mission was to make the design of the built

design can provide when it relates to the sun, it’s light, the breeze and

environment sensible—rational as per the Vitruvian virtues of “solid, useful

other gifts of nature—trees and water and all.

and beautiful.” The newspapers called the style Modern—to differentiate this new thing from traditional styles and a clinging to the past. Though many are not comfortable with the idea of ‘modern’ design, the

In fact, from Frank Lloyd Wright in 1920s to Frank Gehry today, architectural practitioners have given homes a richness of both form and visual complexity/inclusiveness. This design rivals the classically-imitative

feeling is most often based on an image characterized by the ubiquitous

past and affords the average family detail, variety, surprise, novelty,

bland developments which evoke a sense of loss of “humanness,” a lack

and uniqueness to place and the surroundings. The ’ideals’ of modern

of intimacy and are often intimidating or cold.

architectural design allow us to adapt to current standards and lifestyles,

We relate more to things that are familiar to us from our childhood like

28 | DESIGNANGUILLA

and has a greater flexibility and lesser engagement with the past.

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zemi beach resort Modern Caribbean A modern interpretation of Caribbean living with a lot of wood and natural materials.

Photo: Thierry Dehove

modernanguilla

The story of how we house ourselves protecting ourselves from the elements; creating a comfortable balance between convenience and safety – began in an organic way when we moved from caves and other natural shelters. Survival was crucial. The relation to the surrounding conditions and availability of materials prompted people to construct their controlled environments functionally, and aesthetically, integrated into their surrounding natural environments. My take: survival is still crucial, yet we have developed many techniques, technologies, as well as expectations that allow us to have a level of freedom to take advantage, again, of the really ancient experience – of full engagement with our surroundings. A living architecture is a commitment to a relationship fundamentals of vision, sound, touch, taste and smell—our feelings. The goal is to create a kind of overall feel of day through night; season through season and year through year. It can show us the beauty of, and give us a satisfaction with our surroundings. We feel the peace; tranquility; sensuality; security;

30 | DESIGNANGUILLA

Ce blue New-age Modern Very Caribbean in its proportions and form with pastel gable roofs and natural finishes

Photo: CaribWebServices

www.designanguilla.com

of ‘inside’ to ‘outside,’ based on the experiential

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happiness; and the joy with the now, as well as the future — and maybe even with our own sense of identity. The standard methods of art: to dramatize and augment (through repetition, contrast, authenticity, balance, etc.) and a drive to maximize the potential of any particular situation are the architectural tools used to accomplish a symbiosis that, in a skilled hand, each architectural work becomes a new invention for its place and time, without a specific style. What shall we call no-name architecture for our fun and satisfaction? My contribution is primal architecture, related directly to our natural, human experiences, design based on

modena villa Luxe Modern Grand in every sense with a leaning towards

Photo: Dante Alexander / ArcPoint Design Group Ltd.

the ancient fundamentals of time and place. Modern design in Anguilla It might be said that Anguilla doesn’t have much of an architectural heritage. Certainly, it is unlike many larger Caribbean islands that have pronounced influence from the European styles of the last 400 years. After all, in Anguilla the quantity of the “built world” is small, is constructed for the basic functions of living on small budgets with simple, readily available, construction materials and techniques. A certain amount of aesthetic concern has been applied to governmental banking/ financial and commercial developments. Up until the surge of the relatively recent tourism era, most building and infrastructure was community orientated — towards “the Valley,” and not too concerned with architectural image, design per se, the public landscape, aesthetic infrastructure, ocean views, etc. So, in many ways, Anguilla, architecturally, may seem like a blank slate without a particular architectural identity, seemingly with a lack of sufficient precedents to give its architecture a sense of place. The plus side here is a potential for a freedom for future design to develop—an opportunity for uniting the experience of the natural surroundings and man-made spaces. The question that arises is how to create a new Anguillian design language.

viceroy Groundbreaking Modern An uncompromising take on modern living has redefined the idea of Anguilla luxury.

32 | DESIGNANGUILLA

Photo: Derrys Richardson

www.designanguilla.com

local architecture that speaks a specifically Firstly, one heritage, or local aspect of design does exist. It is a construction technique. I would say an architectural heritage based on Anguillian ingenuity: that of constructing roofs, of concrete (maybe the strongest roofs possible) at very steep angles and configured

Photo: Orrett H. Wynter

TEQUILA SUNRISE Petit Modern A very modern and personal take on simple waterfront living.

shapes. High ceilings are a distinct advantage

its balmy, dry breezes and brilliant rosy coral

developed institutional example of this is

for cooling in tropical contexts. The technique

sand beaches has a great sensual pleasantness.

Colville Petty’s Heritage Collection, a museum

has spread to become many other unusual

The opportunity exists to maximize the

that clearly reveals Anguillian roots and current

poured shapes: arches; sloped beams; and

experience of the Anguillian climate: sea; clean

demographics (of great interest to me on my

quite decorative; expressions identifying the

air; cooling breezes; the raw bareness of the

visits to the island). The social tranquillity, thus

entrances of single and group buildings.

coastal landscape.

evolved, goes along with the physical ecology,

Thirdly, though not so obvious, is the unique

providing a home for both local and off-island involvement.

language for Anguilla might be its general

Anguillian social context — both psychologically

physicality, local and specific conditions and

and physically. It is a very small island even

context. Other Caribbean islands of current

in the Caribbean context. A small population,

process of creating an Anguillian architectural

tourist interest have great dramatic, visual and

mainly composed of a handful of original

heritage. If based on the physical and spiritual

physical beauty due to rugged, precipitous

families (look in the phone book) — of people

realities of the island and the humanity and

geography and rain forest eco-systems. Yet

who look after each other and have pride in

ingenuity of its people, it will possess the power

these islands are hot and humid. Anguilla, with

an overall sense of community. An under-

of authenticity.

I think the opportunity exists now to start the

www.designanguilla.com

Secondly, the main inspiration for a design

issue03 | 33

modernanguilla Vox-Pop Anguillian designers share their take on Modern Design.

Raoul Vanterpool Architect

Maris Edwards Interior Designer

Vanburn Brookes Architect

V Architecture & Design Studio

In spire Decor & Design

Morlens Architecture Services

What is your definition of

Design that implements clean defined

Design tailor-made for its era,

It is about taking a holistic approach

modern design?

lines, simplified, open design that

making use of existing technology

to the parameters and creating the

is free from clutter and that is best

and materials. For me, it is practical

best possible solution. I would dare to

suited for a harmonic indoor and

and simple. Clean lines, uncluttered

further tag the modern expression as

outdoor design relationship.

spaces; bold and unapologetic.

‘evolving design’.

Why is ‘modern’ your

I became fascinated after seeing a

Modern design strives for purity

It allows me to push the boundaries.

preferred design

scale model of Frank Lloyd Wright’s

and honesty in expression - ideals

It gives freedom to mix, integrate, and

expression?

Fallingwater at the Museum of

I admire. I prefer quiet, simple, and

stir together elements of material and

Modern Art in New York. How he used

happy spaces, natural materials and

textures that other design expressions

natural elements in his design was

the shaving of excess. Modern design

might frown upon.

phenomenal - the building seemingly

lends itself to that. Getting more

grew from the rocks, trees and the

out of less is challenging and that

waterfall.

encourages creativity.

Some persons may

Some modern designs are these

Stark white spaces and minimal detail

It can be cold, clean, sharp, or it can

describe modern

things, but then again, this might also

could be so described, but ‘Modern’

aggressive. Who can argue that that

design as ‘aggressive’,

be said for other styles of architecture.

can be inviting and warm. It’s a matter

wasn’t the original intention? There’s

‘cold’, ‘ugly’, and ‘de-

It all comes down to the architect’s

of using different textures, materials,

an inherent freedom of expression at

personalized’. How

design. Each design has a unique

colour, composition of elements

its core. The beauty of modern design

would you counter such

geographical location that comes

among other things. Spaces should

is that you can make it cold, warm,

a description? Why don’t

with its own set of challenges. The

be balanced and I counter straight

hot, sexy, clean, rustic or even ‘ugly’.

these descriptors apply

architect has to find the best solutions

lines with curves - perhaps the

It allows such freedoms!

to your design aesthetic?

to those challenges. When done right,

curvaceous outline of a vase or the

every design can become beautiful

base of a lamp; the organic forms in a

architecture.

painting or the pattern in fabric.

I think modern architecture, with its

We have lots of natural resources

The modern medium allows us to

How is modern design

best adapted to the local, implementation of larger windows,

www.designanguilla.com

Anguillian context?

34 | DESIGNANGUILLA

of which we could make better use.

use elements that describe our

and a more friendly relationship with

Our homes could be intentionally

eclectic nature as a colourful, durable

the outdoors, allow us to capture

designed to capitalise on the cooling

and vibrant people. The Anguillian

more of our beautiful scenery here in

breezes. Including breezeways is one

context is unforgiving sunlight and

Anguilla.

way to encourage this. Our hot and

hot weather, sea spray, hurricanes

dusty environment gives us great

and, mostly, hard terrain; coupled

reason to simplify: products lose

with gorgeous views and warm

their beauty and deteriorate quickly.

smiles. Features like operable glass

These conditions encourage practical

wall systems allow the flexibility

living and a need to spend on quality

of enclosed or open spaces.

materials and products.

Aluminium offers a strong, durable and aesthetically pleasing material that can stand up to the torture of the Anguillan environment. Advances in laminated and impact glass allow us to safely use large windows to champion the modern design era.

modernanguilla Go Modern! Choose your style: simple, bold, quiet, dramatic, retiring, assertive, offbeat ... It’s still modern! Modern design, in spite of its strict, straight-edged outlook, can conform into just about any personality. It’s a matter of tinkering with the elements of design.

be colour brave The most popular colour for the modern home has always been pure white. White is favoured because it is clean and bright and reflects light perfectly. With the use of white, rooms appear large, crisp and efficient. Don’t be afraid of white. It doesn’t have to be cold as even whites come in warm and cool shades. White can be made visually comfortable by introducing differing shades of white and lots of texture into the scheme – from a crisp white to taupe and all the shades in between. If white is not your thing, colour is an equally viable option. An accent wall painted in a brave colour, for starters, could © Can Stock Photo Inc. / Subbotina

create the energy or the boldness that you crave. Inject colour in other ways. Colourful indoor plants and vibrant cushions can add excitement to an otherwise bland space.

Embrace technology This has always played a big part in the “modern” design of any time. Technology has become a major part of our lives and has taken on the role of convenience-maker

36 | DESIGNANGUILLA

www.designanguilla.com

in our homes. Microwave ovens, smart TVs, automatic doors, motion sensor lighting and talking commodes are but a few. Many will bemoan the intrusiveness of modern technology, but few would decline having a home that can run a bath, dim the lights, turn on the air conditioning and switch on some jazz…all before you pull into the driveway from work. Done right, technology can allow us the freedom to experience our spaces in precisely the ways that we want.

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modernanguilla

space The idea of house-as-labyrinth is a thing of the past. Let rooms flow seamlessly from one to the next. Living rooms, dining and kitchens have become the main entertaining spaces and their integration as one reflects this. Adequate storage and organization

www.designanguilla.com

be bold

everything is a truism that fits right in with the ideals of modern design. Find creative ways to incorporate storage in every room. It will allow each space to maintain that immaculate look that seduced you initially, not to mention making them seem much bigger.

removes clutter. A place for everything and

experiment with materiality A big part of the modern movement has been not only the use of new materials, but also the reinterpretations and

Boldness suggests deliberateness. Go bold with artwork that speaks to

repurposing of existing ones. Wood, brick or stone need

who you are. Large wall art stands out against white walls and become

not be hidden or painted. These materials have now taken

a point of focus. Large area rugs help to break up the monotony of

on more essential roles beyond purely structural. Consider

expansive areas of wood flooring or stone tiles, particularly in the

exposed wooden beams, unfinished concrete or weathered

larger open space of a living or entertaining room. Go bold with colour

wood framing outside.

schemes that truly reflect your personality and sense of style.

38 | DESIGNANGUILLA

Go Modern...on a budget Sure, high-end, luxury modern homes cost a lot, but you can get the look and create your own modern abode for a lot less with these practical ideas.

be unique Interaction with outdoor spaces is another major feature of modern design, particularly in an Anguillian context. The yearround weather is conducive to this lifestyle. Large windows and doors opening out to expansive decks, spacious verandas and landscaped backyards allow for lots of fresh air and natural

light and helps promote better indoor air quality and health.

be unique Finally, and most importantly, try to create a place that’s uniquely yours. Forget about creating magazine look-alikes or copying your neighbour. Your modern home should contain all the mementos that are dearest to you, and reflect exactly how you live. There’s a world of options between stark, museum-like décor, and a homey feel. Your personality will dictate which end of the spectrum is right. Less is more and the uncluttered look can reduce budgets. Blend natural materials with metals and concrete to make spaces more inviting. Organic, or even handmade items stand out in their own right, while also calling attention to other geometry that exists. Homes are sanctuaries to all our idiosyncrasies and modern design is flexible enough to allow you to be as unique as you want to be. You’ll have to live with it for quite a while, so tailor it to suit yourself as much as possible.

Keep it small While the temptation is often to maximise the amount of living space, quite often we end up with rooms that are much bigger than we really need, not to mention stretching budgets. A 500 sq. ft. reduction in floor area at a nominal rate of $120/ sq. ft. (for a typical Anguilla home) is a saving of $60,000. This could be enough to completely furnish and decorate many homes. More appropriately-scaled spaces will feel more inviting and warm. Keep it standard Design to standard material and fixture sizes so less custom work is needed. Consider basing ceiling heights on the height of a standard concrete block. Typical room heights would then be in increments of 8”: 8 ft.; 8 ft.-8 in., 9 ft.-4 in., etc. Get window and doors at sizes that are stocked by suppliers, rather than expensive custom orders. Kitchens are usually one of the most expensive rooms to finish, so consider using standard cabinetry. These are usually sold in increments of 3”, 6”, 9” and 12.” A properly planned kitchen can use cabinets that slot right into place. The savings can be tremendous. Find cost-effective substitutes Marble floors look great, but a highquality ceramic tile can be just as attractive, and at a lower cost. Better yet, aim for an edgy, industrial look and try polished concrete. Do you really need double-glazing for ALL the windows? It might be cheaper to

add a film to regular glass to reduce heat transfer from direct sunlight. Old sofas can be re-upholstered with fresh fabrics that match the current colour scheme. Secondhand and vintage pieces work quite well too. Wood can be refinished and antiques incorporate quite well to create points of interest in rooms otherwise filled with more contemporary pieces. Go green Consider fixtures that will save energy and money long-term. Low-flow toilets and high-efficiency showerheads, LED light fixtures*, coupled with solar electric* and solar water heating* can combine to save tens of thousands of dollars over the course of a home’s life. *See Design Anguilla Issue 02

Do-it-yourself This is true for any design project. If you’re handy, you can save a lot of money with a few weekends and some elbow grease. Be careful not to take on more than you can really handle. In some cases, like electrical work, it really is better to leave it to the professionals. Installing bathroom fixtures isn’t rocket science – neither is painting. Even tiling is something you could get the hang of easily. Consider designing your furniture yourself and have a local craftsman build it to your specifications. Better yet, invite some friends and family to help and buy them lunch. This is the very definition of “sweat equity.” Prioritize Identify the things that are most important and which are nonnegotiable. Not all things will affect your appreciation of the space in the same way. Get the best quality, or that which you are most happy with for the things that are important, and try to save as much as possible on other items to compensate. If you are dead-set on having a granite kitchen countertop, install one. You might have to compromise on the Jacuzzi and get a regular tub. Finally, keep in mind that, aside from the structural elements that keep your home standing, most other fixtures and finishes can be upgraded later.

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Keep it simple Much emphasis is often placed on creating an interesting floor plan, often with intricate spaces and clever wall and space interactions. When done right, it can be spectacular. It can also be quite costly. Simplicity should be the order of the day – clean lines and minimizing intricate details will simplify the process and reduce construction time. An open plan reduces the number of internal walls and doors needed, translating into reduced construction material and labour costs. The spaces will feel bigger and will be easier to keep cool in the hot Anguilla summers.

issue03 | 39

this page The grey slate tiles that mark the entry become almost glasslike after a light shower. The spacious garage and nanny-suite above sit just in front of the tennis court. opposite The house opens up to a beach view with large expanses of glass.

detail oriented Focusing on the little things takes this contemporary beachfront home to award-winning heights. PHOTOS: Rene Guinto

ften, we get caught up with the readily

power of detail. Completed in 2009, and designed

measureable indicators of architecture

and built by Ian ‘Sugar George’ Edwards and his

– square footage, ceiling heights or the

Sunset Homes team, the sheer size of the 12,000 sq.

number of in-suite bathrooms – and neglect the

ft., 8-bedroom home certainly inspires awe, but it is

subtle design choices that differentiate between a

the smaller design elements that make it shine.

nice building and a breath-taking one. But we need

At first blush, the Beach House on Mead’s Bay

only notice the way the light hits a pool of water

seems very white, though that impression wouldn’t

and reflects into a room, the curvature of a door

be altogether wrong. Taking its cues from some of

handle, or the subtle visual texture of a stone wall

the other contemporary homes built at the time,

to recognize that the details complete the design.

the Beach House is as unabashedly white as a fresh

The Beach House on Meads Bay exemplifies the

canvas. Sugar George sees a boldness and beauty

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TEXT: Orrett H. Wynter

issue03 | 41

this page The cornerless windows above the Jacuzzi frames a panoramic view out to Meadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bay. opposite, top The sunken tub, and outdoor shower adds to the spacious, spa-like feel of the master bath. opposite, middle Stainless steel countertops, appliances and tile backsplash underline the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s modern feel opposite, bottom The long palm-lined drive adds drama to the approach

in the style. “Not everyone wants the traditional Caribbean style,” he explained, “This is what I like. I have done different styles [in the past], but I decided to go ultramodern on the beach for a different look.” The artful attention to detail starts at the front door. The grey slate stone walkway leads to the large, 8-foot wooden doors, which offer a pause before revealing what lies beyond - expansive views of the white sandy beach that is Meads Bay. Throughout, the spaces are oriented to make the most of the sea view. Large floor-to-ceiling window and door glass panels unsparingly envelop the view and can slide away entirely to invite the cool sea breezes into the home. The spaces that do not open to the bay incorporate water features that maintain aquatic continuity throughout the home. One such water feature is the highlight of the interior, a 12’ high waterfall made with split-face travertine. To underline its decidedly 21st-century character, an extensive home automation system offers convenient control over the entertainment/audio-visual, lighting, climate control, and security systems from anywhere in the house – or the world. The attention to detail spills over into the kitchen: double ovens, a double microwave, and an island with a large stainless-steel countertop combine to compose a culinary enthusiast’s fantasy. Stainless-steel miniature tiles that form the backsplash behind the engineered stone countertops cleverly add visual texture. Interestingly, Sugar George conceived of the kitchen as a separate space, away from the openplanned living, dining and great rooms. “The kitchen was designed to be separate from the main living area to fit into the occupants’ lifestyle,” he explained, “By maintaining the separation, the busy functions of the kitchen would not interfere with the relaxed spirit and entertaining mode in the great room.” Each bathroom has its own character, featuring bespoke finishes and spacious accommodations. “Careful attention was

left Gallery-height glass panel offer a glimpse inside to the split-face travertine waterfall. opposite At night, light accentuates the sculptural geometry and clean lines

unobtrusively into the floor, allowing the

area,” Sugar George pointed out, “the

space to feel even larger than it already is.

bathrooms are spacious, so a couple could

Pale tiles flow seamlessly from the inside

outdoor living. Fittingly, the building recently received a total of five awards at the 2012-2013

to the outdoor living spaces, mimicking the

International Property Awards ceremony

sandy expanse that is Meads Bay beach,

in London, including the most coveted

outdoors, external showers just beyond

only steps away. Outside, a full kitchen with

World’s Best International Architecture for

full-height glass panels bring natural

BBQ grill, fridge and a handmade, rubbed-

a Single Residence, suggesting that it is the

light inside and allow the user to flirt with

concrete countertop complement the pool

smallest details, working in harmony, that

exhibitionism. The sunken jetted tubs melt

deck and create an elegant ambiance for

contribute most to that “wow” factor.

enjoy use at the same time.” Continuing the celebration of the

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paid to making bathrooms a spa-like social

issue03 | 45

this page The sloped roof opens the inside to the expansive sea view. A number of water features including the stone waterfall, salt-water pool and Jacuzzi (on the upper level) help to promulgate the aquatic/boat theme.

water, water,

everywhere

An fanatical obsession with water views inspires a modern Anguillian masterpiece. TEXT: Orrett H. Wynter PHOTOS: Orrett H. Wynter & Joy von Tiedemann

Photo: Joy von Tiedemann

Photos this page and facing: Joy von Tiedemann

Horizontal wooden slats help soften the entrance and provide a warm welcome.

he Nantucket of the Caribbean.

his credit, Frank was able to fulfil this request in all

That was how a friend of Villa Kishti’s

but the most utilitarian spaces.

owner, Suresh Bhalla, described Anguilla

floating in the water,” explains Frank, “I thought

coast of Massachusetts. Intrigued, he, and his

I’d reinforce that by putting controlled areas of

wife, took a short trip to the island that ended

water on the north side [pools and spa] as well

with them purchasing the Black Garden Bay

as the south side [wading, reflecting pool].” Aptly,

property which the villa now occupies.

the name chosen for the villa was Kishti, an Urdu

Having worked with him on a number of occasions dating back about 15 years, Suresh

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“There’s a sense that it is a ship…that it’s

- drawing parallels to the luxurious island off the

word that translates to mean a boat, or ark. Frank attributes the very white, contemporary

again called on Toronto architect Frank Hamilton

look of the villa to a fairly obscure conversation

to provide design direction for his family's pied-a-

he had with Suresh at the time they first became

tierre. “Your architect is only as good as his client,”

acquainted. “When Suresh proposed his lake

Suresh remarked, “[Frank] knows our family quite

house in Ontario, he had me come over to his

well, so he understood the requirements we had

house and said ‘Frank, look around this house,

for the property.” These requirements are easily

look at these mouldings, the patterns, etc…

summed up in three words: water, water, water.

what I want is NOT that!’” That relieved him

The retired banker, who moved to Canada from

of the burden of trying to imitate and allowed

India when he was 28, explained his obsession, “I

him to create a house that could maximize the

want to be able to see the water when I’m having

experience of the surroundings.

a shower, when I’m in the tub, anytime I’m in the bathroom – I want to be able to see the water.” To

48 | DESIGNANGUILLA

To satisfy Suresh’s request for views of the water, Frank designed sloping roofs and massive

top left & right Beyond the gates, glass panels offer a glimpse of the panoramic view, while a water feature to the left of the walkway gives an immediate introdction to the home's nautical theme.

left The view from the bay calls attention to the dramatic geometry of the many sloping roofs.

right the outdoor shower is contrast of rustic and cutting edge finishing.

Photos this page and facing: Joy von Tiedemann

this page, top, middle & bottom The bedrooms & baths all share the same neutral palette with lots of natural finishes.

opposite Asian-themed decor outfit the very minimal living/dining, which takes a backseat to what Suresh calls "the largest tv in the world" â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the view.

“My favourite place would have to be between the pool area or in the living room watching the largest television screen in the world.” - Suresh Bhalla

sun, something also of high value to Suresh.

glass openings to face the ocean in all the

wedge-shaped site open up to the North

main spaces. He admits he marvelled at

allowed us to open up that side without

the level of concrete work achieved by

having to worry about too much Sun

also from Toronto, joined the design team

local builders. “I felt limited working with

getting in. So I thought maybe the roof

once the structure was completed. Initially

concrete, but when I came to Anguilla, I

could lift up and grab the view of the ocean

brought on to provide kitchen design, they

saw all these roofs, made out of concrete,

and the sky”, Frank said .

completed interior, as well as some exterior

Meant to accommodate the couple and

design, including landscaping and lighting.

their three adult sons, the 4-bed villa is split

“We tried to honour the forms that the

“After talking to Audley about it, I had no

into three 2-storey suites on the west, with

architect had developed,” Anna Simone

hesitation about letting the roofs just slope

the master bedroom suite on the east with

explained, “We worked very strongly with

up there”, he explains. And slope they did.

common living, dining and kitchen spaces

those forms and the lines and really wanted

To truly let in the views, the main areas of

in between. The master bedroom’s volume

the house to be one with nature.”

the building have massive glass openings

is pulled forward, protruding towards the

facing the ocean. The lot selection was

sea, allowing for views past the western

a relaxing, harmonious blend of

fortuitous, as Frank explained , “Having the

suites. In the evening, it faces the setting

contemporary items with an Asian

Audley Carty, set his mind at ease.

For the interior, the Bhallas chose

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some of them were 45degrees!” Contractor,

Interior designers Cecconi Simone Inc.,

issue03 | 51

Photos this page: Orrett H. Wynter

www.designanguilla.com

top row Unique, natural furniture pieces, such as these repurposed tree trunks fit well in the decor and add warmth to the otherwise clean, modern spaces.

bottom row The unique, hand-carved coffee table (left) plays host to a range of cultural and religious items and complements other pieces, such as the couch (right) with its more contemporary design and upholstery.

theme and subtle earth tones - providing a warmth that is often

exercises, breakfast in the mild breeze, and a glass of wine at

absent from contemporary design. “Suresh always joked about

sunset. An intricate system of tiered water features including fresh

the ‘three B’s,’” Anna laughed, “beige, brown, and Bhallas.” The

and saltwater swimming pools, hot tubs, and a waterfall combine

interior designers drew from that to put together “a palette and a

to satisfy Suresh’s need to incorporate water.

movement within the home that would always lead the eye to the outside.” That it did. The stone floors bleed seamlessly into the outdoor

“I’m thrilled with the result,” Suresh concludes, “We come here as often as we can…[and] aggregate about 3-4 months per year, 2-3 weeks at a time, mostly during the winter. My favourite place,” he

living areas, providing continuity. The Bhallas spend most of

commented, “would have to be between the pool area or the living

their time at the villa enjoying the outdoor spaces: morning yoga

room, watching the largest television screen in the world.”

52 | DESIGNANGUILLA

Photo: Joy von Tiedemann

this page Lighting adds intrigue to the sculptural forms and highlights the different textures on the exterior.

Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sdesign

big things

little package... TEXT: Andy Connor

PHOTOS: Orrett H. Wynter

One of Anguillaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s smallest beaches presents a grand adventure

et me introduce you to Little Bay, a beach on Anguilla’s north

view is of nothing less than paradise - glittering water and underwater

coast between Crocus Bay, the island’s highest point, and

rock formations that can clearly be seen from 70 feet above sea level.

Shoal Bay, arguably, the world’s best beach. Little Bay is one

Climbing down a rope of about 70 feet of rocky cliff may sound a

of the best kept secrets on the island – you’re not even supposed

bit dangerous, but it’s not. I’ve taken grandmothers down the rope

to mention its name out loud. What makes this beach so special?

and they’re still alive today and without any broken bones. Hold on

The reasons are many, but one stands out - it’s the only beach on

to the rope and take small steps. Only when your feet touch the

the island to which you can’t drive. There are two ways to get to this

powdery sand should you let go. The reward for your hard work is not

incredible little hideaway: one is by boat; and the other option is to

only a heart full of joy, eyes filled with pleasure and moments in time

climb down a cliff via rope. Let’s be adventurous and journey down

that you’ll never forget, it’s also a rare look at Pelican Rock, Little Bay’s

the rope!

underwater life and an authentic bat cave.

A ten minute hike (with closed-toe shoes) is needed to get to the

This beach may be called “little” but it will definitely have a huge

cliff side. From there, three small nature trails, starting at different

impact on creating a lifetime of memories. One of Anguilla’s smallest

points, all lead you to the infamous rope. Once you get there, the

beaches with a length of only about 100 feet, it offers soft white sand

Nature’sdesign

from end to end surrounded by ancient cliff

fun, way off the rock is to jump which takes

of a beach there’s also a massive cave.

walls, seemingly undisturbed for thousands

you back into pristine waters where you can

Characteristic of Little Bay, access to the

of years. At 100 feet high at its highest point,

snorkel, see large pelicans overhead, and get

cave is yet another challenge. You’ll have

the rocky cliff walls protect the bay meaning

acquainted with the sea life of tropical fish,

to get your feet wet or swim over to get in

that the exquisite blue waters are almost

lobsters, morays, sting rays and sea turtles.

the cave because, yes, the entrance is in the

always calm and peaceful. Within the bay is Pelican Rock – a huge

Little Bay may be touted as a marine park,

ocean. Navigate through the reefs against

but on the ground you’ll find lizards that look

the cliff and then pull your way over some

pillar rising 30 feet out of the water. It is

like they’re on steroids; nowhere else on

huge boulders. Only then, may you enter the

located about 150 feet from the beach…just

the island can they be found bigger. If you

cave. Inside, silence is golden. You’ll be able

a short swim from the shore. The climb may

look hard, maybe you’ll spot some iguanas,

to hear the sound of bats 60 feet overhead.

have been a challenge, but to swim out to

parrots and small harmless snakes, along

Pelican Rock will be refreshing. Another rope

with hermit crabs, red-footed tortoises, wild

rock-jumping, snorkeling, topped off with

and rock climbing exercise takes you to the

goats and the national bird - the turtle dove.

a bit of spelunking, will make sure your

pinnacle. There you have a picture perfect

You’ll be captivated with all of the animal life

experience at Little Bay is unsurpassed. It’s

view of a world of beauty that only exists in

there is to explore.

yet another hidden beach treasure - all real,

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most people’s dreams. The best, and most

56 | DESIGNANGUILLA

To top it all off, on this same little treasure

The combination of hiking, rope-climbing,

all natural, and all here in Anguilla.

Photo: Josveek Huligar / Anguilla Access

winedine

FIT FOR

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TEXT: Trudy Nixon

Purpose

mmm what to eat and where? Not an easy decision

base my very expert opinion on that response. My recommendations

to make in Anguilla which famously boasts over 100

are always based on a combination on the practical and the aesthetic

restaurants, despite its tiny size. As someone who has a

– the food and the atmosphere/experience. In fact like the principles

passion for eating well and is regularly spotted enjoying Anguilla’s

of good design my restaurant recommendations are always ‘fit for

many and varied restaurants I will often be asked that most difficult

purpose’. So here, in no particular order of importance or preference,

of all questions for us local residents… what’s your favourite

are my most ‘fit for purpose’ dining experiences in Anguilla.

restaurant? I DON’T have one - I have many. Why limit yourself to just one or two favourites when you have a plethora of choices? So when I get asked to recommend a restaurant I simply say – what do you like to eat? And what kind of experience do you want? Then

58 | DESIGNANGUILLA

These are just a tiny selection of the great dining experiences available in Anguilla. I wish I could mention every place I enjoy, but honestly that would take up most of the magazine. Apologies to those I missed - if the Editor invites me back I’ll get you next time!

OPENING HOURS AND & CALENDAR OF EVENTS Main restaurant opens Tuesday to Sunday. Dinner 6:00 - 9:30 pm Tapas at da’Vida lounge 5:00 - 9:00 pm Happy hour Thursday thru Saturday 6:00 - 7:00 pm Ladies night Thursdays 7:00 - 10:00 pm Live entertainment at da’Vida Lounge Friday and Saturday Bayside Bar and Grill opens daily from 10:00 am - 5:00pm

winedine

FANCY FRESH FISH When I want something fishy, fresh and French, in a stunning beach front location I head to Jacala on Meads Bay. I LOVE Alan’s Marinated Tuna Carpaccio with wakame, olive oil and soya sauce it with a glass, or two, or three of Rosé for lunchtime perfection. If I want a whole local fish, steamed or fried I think Johnno’s is always a great choice. It’s always fun to sit in Sandy Ground and watch the show.

Photo: Allan Ruan

Prickly Pear

Jacala

Photo: Trudy Nixon

with a simple salad and their homemade bread. I normally pair

I love 'em! I don’t recall ever eating a BBQ rib until I came here and they are now the thing I miss the most when I leave Anguilla. I eat them all over – whenever I have the chance. I enjoy the purity of eating roadside

Tokyo Bay at CuisinArt Golf Resort and Spa

Photo: Thierry Dehove

RIBS

from Ken’s straight out of the styrofoam. My recommended ‘sit down’ ribs are: Nat’s Palm Grove I love the combination of the utter

NIGHT OUT ‘Girls’ don’t like to eat too much when they get dressed up and go out (ha-ha!) so finding a

and complete peace and quiet of the beach

spot for a cocktail and have a delicate little nibble of something to keep you going is always

and the almost exclusive nature of dining

a priority. There are loads of places to choose from in Anguilla. In no particular order these

there – and I find the (often very long) wait

are my current faves: Sand Bar – Denise and Joash’s original “Cool Cocktails and Tasty Tapas’

for ribs and homemade Johnny Cakes adds

hotspot in Sandy Ground – red cooked duck, marinated veggies and the awesome “Sand

to the anticipation.

Bar Fries” are long-time faves; newcomer Tokyo Bay at CuisinArt Golf Resort and Spa – it’s

Prickly Pear - Alan and Sue’s Ribs have to

gleaming sushi bar, DJ nights and cool décor make for a sophisticated night out and I can’t

travel quite a few miles by speed boat to the

get enough of their salty garlicky edamame; Straw Hat – love its wonderful new bar and the

off shore cay – maybe all that marinating on

Tuna Flatbread is a ‘must have’. The Pumphouse – we all love those chicken wings and I think

the boat is what makes them taste so good?

they serve the best mixed drinks in Anguilla and the Sunset Lounge at Viceroy – a gorgeous

And finally Smokey’s – their full rack of ribs

place where lots of fun can be had watching the beautiful people whilst nibbling daintily on a

is smothered in BBQ sauce, I love to get in

“Sunset” Roll or two.

a mess with those and then dance ‘em off www.designanguilla.com

to the sounds of the Musical Brothers on a Saturday.

60 | DESIGNANGUILLA

TOURIST FOR A DAY I regularly relive those experiences I first had when I came to Anguilla 10 years ago. When I want to feel like I’m on vacation, I go to Scilly Cay. Something about waiting to catch the boat on the dock at Island Harbour, looking at the colourful boats and fishermen, the family feel and the picture perfect island – makes me feel like I should relax and enjoy my holiday. I know I love the rum punch, the pretty beach and the dancing! And I’m sure I love the food too (especially their signature orange peanut sauce) but sometimes that is a bit of a blur.

E's Oven

Photo: Josveek Huligar / Anguilla Access

Put yourself out there

LOCAL COMFORT FOOD I was surprised when I first came to the Caribbean at how heavy and homely local food could be. I was expecting to find lots of light salads, fresh fruit and grilled fish. Instead I found a preponderance of soup, stews, curries and hotpots serviced with lots of heavy carbs like dumplings, peas and rice and macaroni pie. It wasn’t what I was expecting but I tried it none the less and now of course I am a fan. One of my favourite places to eat is E’s Oven. Chef Vernon’ Hughes serves up a great selection of sophistically executed local dishes - this is a great place to try Curry Goat, or fresh local Fish. In the Valley – Lisa’s fresh daily specials are spot on and very reasonable and Andy’s

Put yourself out there

Geraud's

Photo: Trudy Nixon

mixes in some healthy options with some rib-sticking favourites.

SWEET TOOTH I’m a big fan of hanging out at Geraud’s watching the comings and goings. I love their Coconut Danish and the girls are kind enough to make me my special ‘Trudy Coffee‘ basically a milky espresso - which gives me a great kick start. Dessert, when taken, will nearly always be chocolate focused - so here are a few tips: Picante chocolate pudding, dark, smooth and slightly spicy – absolutely delicious; Tasty’s Chocolate Mousse, fluffy and fabulous and at Madeariman – Chocolate Sauce soaked Profiteroles. Special commendation goes to Tropical Treats for taking to the road and bringing ice cream to the nation - love to hear that van!

Give us a shout at: www.designanguilla.com/advertise email: sales@designanguilla.com