CARIBBEAN PROJECT

How to Build Your Own Property on Coral Island.

Building in the Caribbean mirrors the phases of European and UK projects but comes with unique challenges that inspire us. From geological surveys to obtaining environmental planning permissions, we honor the natural beauty and cultural heritage that define these enchanting landscapes. At the heart of our bespoke and sustainable design concepts lies our commitment to our client’s visions. With decades of international design and construction experience, especially in tropical settings like the Cayman Islands, Saint & Noire transforms dreams into extraordinary realities.

When designing and constructing residential properties on the tropical shores of the Caribbean, Saint & Noire is highly aware of the natural environment and the importance of protecting local wildlife. We thoughtfully consider the sustainable renewal of local ecosystems in our projects.

No.1 Environmental Planning

Building on the coral island presents unique challenges that inspire us to create foundations deep enough to withstand the forces of nature, guarding against erosion and scour. The porosity of our materials and any openings—whether intentional or born from a storm—will determine how the winds of change flow through our creations and influence the resilience of our structures. Thus, we must choose materials resilient to the power of flooding, allowing us to stand strong against the natural elements.

Many homes on small islands along the coastline face significant challenges due to their exposure to environmental hazards. Coastal areas are vulnerable to tropical storms, tsunamis, coastal erosion, and rising sea levels, which can threaten both residents and properties.

No. 2 Sustainable Building Materials

The use of local materials has become essential due to the limited availability of imported materials and the challenges of transporting materials to the private island site. Local materials are processed to enhance their strength, durability, and ease of long-term maintenance. These materials are often used as structural components in buildings and to cover walls, ensuring sustainability in construction.

Wood is the primary material used in existing buildings. However, we have discovered that many residential structures in the region primarily utilize unprocessed local materials or raw materials. This practice suggests that the construction quality does not meet appropriate standards, particularly regarding durability against extreme weather conditions.

No.3 Natural Resources

In addition to sustainable property development planning in the Caribbean climate, it is vital to embrace measures that honor our natural resources, such as rainwater harvesting and solar panel energy, as we design. By doing so, we can profoundly sustain and protect the beauty of a unique fragile environment.