Seastar House: Where biophilic design meets Caribbean luxury
Nestled in the exclusive enclave of Gibbes Glade on Barbados' prestigious west coast, Seastar House represents a harmonious fusion of innovative architecture and natural beauty. This extraordinary property, completed in 2023, emerged from the creative collaboration between world-renowned architect Peter Inston and leading UK home stylist Kate Haynes, who envisioned a family retreat that would transcend conventional luxury living.
A vision rooted in nature and wellness
What sets Seastar House apart is its profound commitment to biophilic design—an architectural philosophy that strengthens the connection between occupants and the natural environment. The property was conceived with a unique purpose: to create not just a holiday home, but a sensory haven that would be especially nurturing for the Haynes family, including their neurodiverse 13-year-old son Jake, who experiences sensory sensitivities.
This thoughtful approach to design manifests in every aspect of the property, where the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living dissolve seamlessly.
Floor-to-ceiling glass walls invite the Caribbean landscape inside, while covered terraces and verandas create natural transition spaces that embrace the island's indoor-outdoor lifestyle.
Sensory symphony: A thoughtful design approach
The sensory experience at Seastar House begins at the entrance, where a carefully curated courtyard greets visitors with the intoxicating fragrance of frangipani blossoms. Throughout the property, every design choice engages the senses:
The architecture harnesses Barbados' natural elements, with louvered windows and open layouts that capture the cooling trade winds and create ever-changing patterns of natural light and shadow. The pool's dark lining was specifically designed to mirror the surrounding palm trees, creating a mesmerising play of reflections.
Natural materials tell the story of the island's beauty: coral stone and local limestone provide textural interest, while sustainably sourced hardwoods add warmth. In the master bedroom, a striking four-poster bed wrapped in natural twine stands as both an artistic centerpiece and a testament to community collaboration—the piece was created in partnership with Barbados' deaf and blind community.
A living canvas of Island life
The landscaping serves as a living extension of the home's biophilic principles. Native species including palms, hibiscus, and bougainvillea create a vibrant backdrop, while fruit-bearing trees—mango, lime, avocado, and banana—add both beauty and functionality to the grounds. This thoughtful plant selection ensures that residents experience the authentic sights, scents, and flavors of Caribbean living.
Interior spaces reflect the coastal environment through a carefully chosen palette of warm neutrals punctuated by sea-inspired accents of turquoise and coral. Local artisanal touches appear throughout, from hand-crafted ceramics to shell chandeliers and driftwood sculptures, each piece celebrating the island's rich artistic heritage.
Sustainable luxury for the future
Seastar House demonstrates that luxury and environmental consciousness can coexist beautifully. The property incorporates eco-friendly practices such as rainwater harvesting and is designed for future sustainability upgrades to include planned solar panel installation.
From the salty sea breeze that flows through the open living spaces to the textured walls that catch the afternoon light, Seastar House offers more than just accommodation—it provides an immersive experience that engages all the senses. Here, in this thoughtfully designed sanctuary, guests find themselves in perfect harmony with Barbados' natural rhythm, experiencing luxury that goes beyond the visual to touch every aspect of well-being.
For those seeking a truly unique Caribbean escape, Seastar House offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the healing power of biophilic design in one of Barbados' most coveted locations.
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