Barbados Property News June-July 2023

FOR SALE

Battaleys Mews 12 - St. Peter

3 bed, 2.5 bath walking distance to beach US $660,000 (furnished)

FOR SALE

Carlton Ridge - 20 Carlton View, St James

6 bed, 8 bath luxury villa with private cottage US $2.3 million

FOR SALE

Mango Crescent 4 - St. James

2 bed, 2 bath excellent investment potential US $400,000

REDUCED

FOR SALE

Ashton Hall Land - St. Peter

One acre lot minutes from Speightstown US $197,500

FOR SALE

Vuemont Villa 125 - St. Peter

3 bed, 2 bath with private deck and plunge pool US $475,000

FOR SALE

Peace of Sea  - St. Philip

3 bed, 3 bath Villa with uninterrupted sea views US $745,000

REDUCED

FOR SALE

Inch Cubed - Inch Marlow, Christ Church

2 bed, 2 bath modern home near the beach US $625,000

FOR SALE

Hocus - Mount Standfast 50, St. James

4 bed, 4.5 bath with roof terrace, near beach US $1.65 million

FOR SALE

Apes Hill Land J37 - St. James

26,931 sq.ft. of prime residential land US $340,000

246 432 1159

sales@jalbarbados.com

www.alleynerealestate.com

Editor’s Comments

The buzz word at the moment is HOT HOT HOT! Not only are the temperatures challenging at this time of year but the island is ALIVE with Crop Over Fever! Parties have started and anticipation is high as for the first time since the pandemic, people are feeling the excitement and are ready to party!

Summer tends to be a quieter time for the real estate market but after speaking to a few agents, I’m not sure this is true this year! From all reports most of them are busy and sales and rentals are ticking over nicely. Barbados is always a good place to invest!

In this summer issue of BPN, we look at design in the home. We spoke to some of the island’s top designers about various rooms in the house and how they can be improved just by adding new interior décor, changing the lighting, a pop of colour with some new accessories. It’s often said that nice modern kitchens and bathrooms sell a home so if your house looks a little tired - take a look at our Design Section and get inspired!

The beaches are beautiful - take advantage of the sultry summer season and enjoy some of the best seabathing in the world! Take in the Crop Over Festivities and get to work on the home for the upcoming winter season. Now is the time when things are quieter. And don’t forget to prepare for the stormy times. More on that in the next edition…. Pamela x

Credits

Publisher – Hiltop Publications Ltd, Corner Hood Road and Navy Gardens, Ch Ch, Barbados

Tel (246) 232 0692

Email: sportingb@caribsurf.com

www.sportingbarbados.com

www.barbadospropertynews.com

www.caribbeanpropertymag.com

www.caribbeanmortgageservices.com

Editor/Advertising – Pamela L Hiles

Design and Art Direction – 809

Distribution – Hiltop Publications Ltd, Brian’s Print Brokerage Printing – Coles Printery

The Material and editorial contained in this publication have been deemed accurate at the time of going to print. The views expressed as editorial are those of the Editor unless stated otherwise. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the permission of Hiltop Publications Ltd.

On the Cover: Royal Westmoreland

Pamela Hiles, Editor

Lots sizes 8184 to 13,877 sq. ft.

Prices range from $140,000 to $315,000.

Bedroom Refresh with a few simple steps

Summer is here and it’s a great time to transform your bedroom into that calm, inviting space where you unwind and recharge to go out and face the world again. This may seem like an overwhelming task, but updating your bedroom is easier than you think and does not have to take up a lot of time or carry large costs.

So where do you start? Don’t ever underestimate how valuable a plan is. Take pen to paper and identify any problems with the current space. Here are a few thoughts to consider.

Do you struggle with the layout? Is the flow, right? Does the room function well?

Do you need the room to have dual purpose such as serve as a bedroom, an office, a lounging/reading corner?

Is the lighting right?

Do you wake up not feeling rested or in pain?

Does the décor and esthetic speak to who you are?

Does the bedding meet your needs? Is it comfortable, practical and the right temperature?

Once you identify how you want your bedroom to function the design will follow. Now let’s look at budget and some of our top tips that will have big impact when refreshing your room.

FREE WAYS TO REFRESH YOUR BEDROOM

You want your bedroom to feel calm and peaceful and be a place where you retreat. Step one is to reduce the chaos and start creating that serene space by decluttering, deep cleaning and organizing. This alone will make you feel better about the space.

Once you have your bedroom in order, take a fresh look at the layout and the placement of the furniture. If the budget allows, consider replacements or additions. You may have a piece of furniture such as a comfortable armchair from another room that will be perfect for the space.

LOW TO MEDIUM BUDGET UPDATES.

Adding colour through paints and fabrics is one of the easiest ways to transform a space. An accent wall can become a feature and will open up a small room. Wallpaper keeps on trending and is an effective way to completely update the look and feel to just a wall or the entire room. If you want to update your window

By Karin Truedsson - WW Interiors

treatment consider layering cost-effective ready made curtains with block out roman shades and you have a brand new space. Linen and cotton are both ideal fabrics to keep you cool and comfortable on those warm summer nights along with sheet sets with cooling technology. A quick way to refresh is to layer your bed combining colors, patterns and textures for extra comfort and interest,

Ambient lighting is important in a bedroom, but you will probably need some practical lighting as well. Don’t only consider lamps or ceiling lights. There so many scones and task lights that are both functional, budget friendly and add a lot of look.

A must have of ours is large area rugs. They help ground the room and are an easy way to bring in both colour and interest. They add warmth to any esthetic. Washable rugs are our favorite that are light and easy to handle.

Artwork can be expensive but if you are creative and love DIY’s creating a memorable artwork wall can make a big impact. Use anything from kids art to photos.

BIG BUDGET UPDATES.

If there is one big budget spend that we deem necessary, it’s to invest in a good quality and comfortable mattress. Rest is vital for mental and physical wellbeing. And since we spend about a third of our life in bed we should make sure it’s time well spent. And don’t forget the pillows. Our new go to is a combination of soft and firm on one bed for ultimate best nights rest.

Why You Should Hire A Kitchen Designer

IBy Amber de Silvia - Managing Director, Dillon Amber Dane

n the past, kitchens were not given enough attention. They were relegated to the back of the house, completely divorced from eating and social areas because they were viewed as a service area for utilitarian purposes. However, that has all changed and the kitchen is now an indispensable component to contemporary life – the heart of the home as the saying goes. The least desirable space has become the “trophy” room making it the greatest investment in a home. Ask any realtor and they will tell you that one of the best-selling features of a home is the kitchen. With this shift into the spotlight, designing a kitchen requires creative thinking with a methodical approach to ensure all factors are considered. With endless information available, you can be forgiven in thinking that Pinterest can guide you through the entire process but don’t fall into that trap.

When contemplating the design for your kitchen, working with a qualified kitchen designer will assist in the design and function while steering you clear of present and future costly mistakes. The result is a beautiful yet practical space that you enjoy spending time in, reflects your lifestyle while giving you the best investment for your money.

The experience and training that a good designer brings to the table is a fresh perspective and extensive understanding of the process and industry. This provides the solid foundation for insightful and successful guidance and management of the project. Areas of expertise would include accurate site measurements, layout, design, budget, production, logistics and installation. Behind the scenes, they may have their own trades team or work alongside a contractor to help with the technical and structural considerations such as removal and addition of walls, ceiling requirements, flooring and the correct position of service points (i.e. plumbing, electrical and gas).

The market is flooded with kitchen ideas and it can feel like information overload. But an adept kitchen designer will bring a wealth of knowledge for a client to tap into in doses when it comes to the do’s and don’ts, navigating the appliance world, the best selection of materials, lighting and accessories based on practicality, budget and trends.

It’s important you choose someone you are comfortable with and trust in their ability to deliver because over this journey, you

will work closely with them. You simply share your vision and they will help you get there by marrying function and aesthetics to ensure the best possible design has been presented within your budget.

Once a client is happy with the design and budget, the next step is to place the orders. The designer will ensure that orders are placed accurately and would oversee the timelines as they work alongside other trades people to allow for a seamless process. Once the kitchen has been produced, they will coordinate and manage the entire installation while you sit back and watch your new kitchen take shape.

The designer will be responsible for accurately placing orders and overseeing timelines as they work alongside other trades people to allow for a seamless process. Once the kitchen has been produced, they will coordinate and manage the entire installation while you sit back and watch your new kitchen take shape. Whether it’s a new build or a renovation, undertaking a kitchen project is a sizeable endeavor. Nevertheless, there is actually a way of having your cake and eating it too – it’s true that you can acquire the kitchen of your dreams with a peace of mind...when using a qualified kitchen designer.

Level Up Your Bathroom Design with These 5 Tips

your new bathroom should complement the rest of your home.

Lighting is Key

Imagine a private oasis right inside your very own home; that is the power your bathroom holds! Bathrooms are so much more than just a functional space. A well-designed and aesthetically pleasing bathroom naturally doubles as a sanctuary, where you can both start and end your day decompressing and enjoying some well-deserved alone time. What’s more, when you elevate your bathroom’s design, you instantly improve the overall look and feel of your home and increase its market value.

Whether you have recently scored yourself a promising fixer upper, are considering a major remodel on your home, or just want to make some minor upgrades, there is just so much potential for your bathroom space. Get ready to level up your bathroom design with these 5 tips to help you transform this space into the perfect retreat that seamlessly combines functionality with captivating aesthetics!

Establish A Budget

Before getting started, it is important to determine just how much money you are comfortable spending on upgrades to your bathroom; this will help make the rest of your decisions for this space easier. A budget is critical for any type of home renovation project because it dictates the extent of your remodel, the types of fixtures, fittings and other materials you’ll use, as well as any labour or unexpected costs; most importantly, a strict budget prevents overspending. When establishing your budget, be sure to consider the style, flow and level of functionality that you desire in the bathroom and be sure to consult professionals such as your friendly team at Blue Print Management for expert advice, affordable estimates and assistance with all of your renovation needs.

Incorporate Your Style

You’ll definitely want to incorporate your own individual style when remodeling the bathroom as this is what makes a space truly yours. Whether it is the master, general or guest bathroom (or a combination) on the cards for a remodel project, let your personality and flair shine through. Add your charm by determining the aesthetic you desirewhether you are a minimalist, or prefer a more chic, traditional, rustic or modern look, commit to keeping it consistent throughout. Consistency helps guide everything from colour schemes, textures and patterns, down to material, accessories, fixtures and fittings. For example, a modern bathroom design usually features clean lines, recessed lighting, more minimalist fixtures and a neutral colour scheme, while traditional bathrooms boast warm tones, soft lighting and classic fixtures. Whatever your taste, have fun with your revamp and be mindful that

Lighting is a crucial element to consider when elevating your bathroom design as it helps create ambiance, a clean look, inviting atmosphere and will even save you money. When considering lighting concepts, focus on combining a clean aesthetic with functionality and energy efficiency. Explore sleek, contemporary lighting designs that incorporate smart technology - such as recessed lighting, or pendant lighting, combined with LEDs, dimmers and natural lighting. Both styles provide for beautiful ambience in the bathroom and when combined with natural lighting or smart technology, will be more eco-conscious and economical. Regardless of the level of upgrades being undertaken, evaluate your current lighting situation and consider how one, or a combination of lighting types, can achieve your desired effect.

Remember, Details, Details, Details!

Pay attention to the little details, they can make a huge impact! Details like fixtures and fittings have come a long way, evolving from practical, mundane and purely functional pieces to true works of art that upgrade any space significantly, especially the bathroom. Even if your redesign is on a minimal scale, upgrading fixtures and fittings such as showerheads, faucets, cabinet handles, mirrors and even the towel rack, will make a substantial difference in the overall look and feel of the bathroom. Choose durable materials that mesh with your style or chosen design, taking note not to skimp on costs here as you need to ensure a high-quality product that offers you both functionality and efficiency. Some popular materials used for bathroom fixtures and fittings include stainless steel, chrome, brushed nickel and brass, which are both aesthetically pleasing and handle moisture and wear and tear well.

Maximize on Storage Space

When redesigning your bathroom, be sure to make the most of the space you have, especially if your bathroom is on the smaller side, as an organized and clutter-free bathroom instantly looks bigger and feels more stylish! There are so many neat tricks to maximizing storage space in the bathroom, including taking advantage of underutilized wall space with floating shelves or stylish cabinetry, adding decorative baskets or bins that store essentials like toiletries and hair care products and incorporating eye-catching elements like towel racks, or even chic ladders to store your hand and bath towels. Keep items that are in use, like towels and robes, neatly hung behind the door, or in vertical storage units and store non-essential items up higher where they are out of sight.

Let your creativity soar in a place that is deserving of some special attention. Create a space that will serve its purpose while also bringing joy and tranquility to your daily routine.

We hope that our tips will not only give you inspiration, but also the motivation to get your project going if it’s been on your to-do list for some time. Remember, a carefully planned and well-organized bathroom will not only look and feel better, it will also function better.

Contact Blue Print Management at (246) 573-8858 or info@blueprintbarbados.com for help with your next project.