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Villa Katsura

An Imperial Dwelling

Katsura is a name given to an imperial dwelling in Kyoto, so it’s fitting that this spectacular villa should be designated the same. It is, after all, in this Caribbean setting a royally serene and exquisitely crafted villa that serves as a retreat of exceptional originality and zen-like qualities. This residence has been weaved into the location instead of projected upon it. As such, it rests on its paradise perch with the precise elegance of origami. A vision entirely unique to its owners and their love of Japan, and the first property of its kind in the British Virgin Islands and realized through our design excellence.

Location

British Virgin Islands

Client

Private

Services

Architecture

Type

Residential

Location

British Virgin Islands

Services

Architecture

Client

Private

Type

Residential

Acres 0
Acres
Square Feet 0
Square Feet
Rooms 0
Rooms
Private Beach 0
Private Beach

Having found the place to build this home, the owners discovered our breadth of experience for creating the extraordinary in the British Virgin Islands, and our chemistry in creative and practical discussion resonated deeply. Understanding that the structure needed to be climatically resilient to the setting, it was then a case of something entirely different aesthetically from what you often see in the Caribbean.

The Japanese inspired theme permeated the design ethic, incorporating everything that was required from a lifestyle point of view. The owner’s vast collection of Asian object d’art and their love of Japan was the inspiration for our design work, as was the tranquillity of the setting and the oceanic panorama. Our intention was to make their desired vision and dreams a reality.

Situated on a hillside the topography dictated a stepped approach, with three main pavilions delineating the use. A splendid guest journey along stone pathways past lush landscaping, koi ponds, and waterfalls pervade the site and lead to a magnificent private beach.

A cathedral ceiling of exposed wooden beams with cross tension elevates the spectacular main living area, and are reflected again in the walkways. They are precisely integrated with the structure to beautifully contribute to the theme, and simultaneously provide strength and hurricane proofing.

Local stone and the highest marine-grade steel were all considered elements to ensure longevity and resilience. Tiger Wood, European Larch, Western Cedar, and beams of Douglas Fir bring visual beauty and authenticity. Our design expertise in the remote island setting ensures that the structural approach is a completely sound foundation upon which the theme can be layered. With sustainability always foremost in mind, the water catchment and solar panels deliver self-sufficiency but with the greatest consideration to the preservation of place.

The final result is an extraordinary hideaway home unlike anything else, a sanctuary of luxury and minimalist lines, where the architectural design is a work of art that is as surprising and breath-taking as the view.

Having found the place to build this home, the owners discovered our breadth of experience for creating the extraordinary in the British Virgin Islands, and our chemistry in creative and practical discussion resonated deeply. Understanding that the structure needed to be climatically resilient to the setting, it was then a case of something entirely different aesthetically from what you often see in the Caribbean.

The Japanese inspired theme permeated the design ethic, incorporating everything that was required from a lifestyle point of view. The owner’s vast collection of Asian object d’art and their love of Japan was the inspiration for our design work, as was the tranquillity of the setting and the oceanic panorama. Our intention was to make their desired vision and dreams a reality.

Situated on a hillside the topography dictated a stepped approach, with three main pavilions delineating the use. A splendid guest journey along stone pathways past lush landscaping, koi ponds, and waterfalls pervade the site and lead to a magnificent private beach.

A cathedral ceiling of exposed wooden beams with cross tension elevates the spectacular main living area, and are reflected again in the walkways. They are precisely integrated with the structure to beautifully contribute to the theme, and simultaneously provide strength and hurricane proofing.

Local stone and the highest marine-grade steel were all considered elements to ensure longevity and resilience. Tiger Wood, European Larch, Western Cedar, and beams of Douglas Fir bring visual beauty and authenticity. Our design expertise in the remote island setting ensures that the structural approach is a completely sound foundation upon which the theme can be layered. With sustainability always foremost in mind, the water catchment and solar panels deliver self-sufficiency but with the greatest consideration to the preservation of place.

The final result is an extraordinary hideaway home unlike anything else, a sanctuary of luxury and minimalist lines, where the architectural design is a work of art that is as surprising and breath-taking as the view.

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