Project name: The Estate House, Jumby Bay
Category: Restaurants within a hotel
Location: Jumby Bay, Antigua
Date completed: November 2016
Interior designer: Dennis Irvine Studio
Architect: Andrew Goodenough
Hotel Group: Rosewood Hotels and Resorts

In keeping with Rosewood’s ‘a sense of place’ philosophy, the Estate House’s design captures the relaxed Caribbean mood, whilst creating contemporary fine dining experiences for guests and home-owners. The concept was the modern interpretation of the Colonial spirit, and inspiration was taken from both the building’s history and the local spirit with careful curation and playful references that created an aesthetic which drew on the past and used modern materials appropriate to the environment today. In keeping with the local architecture, an airy courtyard and surrounding terraces connect the main restaurant and bar with several private dining areas and wine room. Whilst each space has its own identity, the entire project has been carefully curated to create a considered and elegant design, conscious of both local traditions and contemporary comforts. The re imagined Jumby Bay Estate House has created the ultimate destination for a sophisticated Caribbean getaway.

The restaurant treats guests to unparalleled views of the island’s landscape through large French doors and sweeping terraces. Architectural detailing and found objects sourced from across the globe sit alongside historical elements to create a layered aesthetic and design narrative. Subtle greens and dark timbers emanate the lush flora, whilst collaborations with local artists provide a colourful ambiance, celebrating Antiguan life and the surrounding vernacular. The adjacent Wine Room and nearby Blue Room, each with their own distinct identity, form an intrinsic part of the Estate House narrative, evoking a sense of drama and sophistication for memorable private dining experiences. Key to the design aesthetic of the space is Dennis Irvine Studio’s careful curation of one off furniture items, antiques, artwork and found objects. The composition of these elements creates a modern interpretation of the Colonial spirit, whereby handcrafted rattan and teak furniture sit comfortably alongside sophisticated tableware and accessories in bespoke Ginori china, silver and crystal. The overall outcome is a refined design solution which captures the essence of the island and creates a serene, sophisticated environment for discerning world travellers.

Using a combination of specially commissioned items, found objects, locally commissioned artworks, stonemasonry and indigenous plants was exciting and fundamental to the success of this project. It has resulted in each of the four dining areas having a truly unique atmosphere while remaining true to the brief and concept. Careful, almost obsessive, attention to detail ensures that all aspects of the design complement the Estate House’s history and its environs achieving a harmonious whole that provides dining experiences that are both luxurious and relaxed. Jumby Bay is a luxury Rosewood Resort set on an enchanting 300 acre private island off the coast of Antigua. Accessible only by boat, the resort offers 28 spacious suites and accommodation, relaxed dining at the Pool Grille restaurant, a private spa and the Estate House which provides the island’s signature restaurants and bar.