Split Rock RetreatA Home Inspired by Split Rock Forms

This unique, one-off house is situated on a steeply sloping, rocky terrain on an island in the British West Indies. This breathtaking site gives you a fundamental sense of connection to both the island's mountainous landscape and the undulating coral reefs that are close-by in the ocean. We conceived of a villa nestled carefully into the rocky outcrops and local flora and fauna. A house that is low against the hillside and responsive and relaxed in the lay of the land. 

The geography and geological origins of the site will feel strongly present in the finished design. The low, sloping roofs - reflecting the hillside itself - are supported on horizontally banded stone walls that emulate the strata of the local rock.

The mass of the home is split into four wings - echoing the split-rock formations of the ironshore cliffs at the base of the site. This also means that the visible bulk of the house is broken down into smaller fragments, further softening the form of the house against the hillside and giving the overall structure a modest scale, with the atmosphere of a cave-like retreat.

The overall structure has a modest scale, with the atmosphere of a cave-like retreat.