Surfsong Villa Resort is nestled in Well Bay, edged by ocean blue waters with unspoiled reefs, tidepools, mangrove trees, coral and shells for beachcombing. Surfsong’s protective cay bends out to create a secluded shallow beach which is decorated with huge boulders and shaded by palm trees. Swim out to the little mangrove island, relax under a shady palm tree, snorkel the unspoiled reef or explore along the cay.
The current owners purchased Surfsong with the intent of improving and expanding on the basic amenities by providing updated, contemporary villas that still reflected the local style of construction combined with balinese hardwood furnishings for the interiors. The owners design sense allowed for tasteful updates in style and amenities while reusing existing structures as much as possible. The result is an exquisite, personal space with caribbean charm that repeat visitors come to the Virgin Islands for.
With the depletion in today’s resources, when it comes to an architectural and interior design, it is essential that we first ask the question what can be re-used? Renovation as opposed to new construction is certainly the environmental preference (and perhaps more favourable in today’s economic climate). Utilising the existing footprint of a building reduces excavation works and landscape disturbance, whilst adopting the existing structure reduces the demand for raw materials. Since producing one ton of cement (the main ingredient of concrete) emits one ton of carbon dioxide, this design choice does in fact make a big difference.
This same conscience is required when making interior design choices. Renovations are inevitable but are there ways of reducing the environmental and economic impact? (It is possible to do both!). Longevity is a critical factor in all design decisions. Not only do we examine whether the material or product can withstand the extreme climatic conditions of the BVI ie. salt air, extreme sunlight, but we ask will it provide aesthetic longevity – is it going to be out of style next year?
In the future single storey, organic villas are designed to be nestled amongst the giant boulders and provide large, shaded outdoor areas which separate living and sleeping buildings. Local stone faced walls and greying, cedar shingle roofs help create invisible architecture as landscape and time blend the buildings into their surroundings.While somewhat rustic in exterior appearance, modern conveniences and contemporary interiors provide guests with a high level of comfort from the beach and allow them to stay connected (if they want!) with the world with high speed internet in the business center and satellite tv in the living room.
With the preservation of the sites natural beauty in mind, careful and detailed surveys of all the trees and large boulders allowed the design of buildings around and integrated with nature while keeping stunning views of the sea. Clients who wish to build their dream villa at Surfsong will be able to place their dream vacation homes care into the experienced owners management in an exquisite boutique resort.
More details available at RDP Projects Resorts section or click this link to jump directly to Surfsong.