Dream House | St Ann dream escape takes your breath away

It has been determined that 99 per cent of the population of cities and towns around the world breathe polluted air, a major cause of disease and death.

This week’s dream house has sought to escape those numbers of great concern and find peace amid worldly chaos, in the high hills of St Ann, as it directs our attention to its nature and blessed topography on permanent display.

The arresting, birds-eye visibility from up here frames the extremely fruited woodland, alongside the staggering azure sea, and pale-blue sky horizon. The feathered, winged flying creatures habitually flying around, heightens the tropical ambient. Nature is indeed a strong antidepressant.

The white-coloured house, surrounded by 10-foot-tall stone walls, is tucked securely away from one and all, with no visible neighbours. The sky is the limit when it comes to privacy here.

Features that can’t escape your attention on the outside, encompass a garden pavilion; a sparkling pool, with three connected leisure terraces; a grotto (with a hammock); and a garden gallery lounge.

Wake up to fantabulous views from seven bedrooms, with their ensuite bathrooms (having walk-in showers and pedestal sinks). The floor plan continues with living and dining areas, and a kitchen with tiled counters and handmade mahogany cabinets. A massive, curtained entertainment verandah encloses a dining table seating 24 people.

The refurbished building was originally constructed in the 1960s by Jamaica’s most famous luxury home builder of that era, the Maffesanti Brothers.

The original Irish owner was a stone mason, and he and his South Africa-born wife sold the four-acre estate in 2006 to its present owner, who has kindly allowed us entry.

This house works completely because it has the perfect environment as its backdrop. A residence that inspires its audience and enhances its immediate surroundings.

It has been said, and I continue to repeat it: life is not measured by the breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away. This house offers those moments!

- Barry Rattray is a dream house designer and builder. Email feedback to barry-rattray@hotmail.com and lifestyle@gleanerjm.com