Dream House | 40-year wish fulfilled: Son surprises father with stunning oceanfront home

As I have said periodically, architecture revolves around people because it shapes their lives. Their homes tell the story of who they are, their past, and even their aspirations. Take this spanking new, 21st-century house as an example.

Jamaica-born George Clarke Sr, a master mechanic living in the United States (US) who owns automotive repair shops, had acquired this undeveloped sea-facing lot with the fervent hope and wish that one day, he would build his house of dreams on it. Regrettably, after 40 long years, it never became a tangible reality.

But as the stars would have it, Clarke’s doting son, George Clarke Jr, a software sales director in Atlanta, being acutely aware of his father’s cherished, unfulfilled ambition, would quietly, without his knowledge and consent, build this masterpiece as a surprise Christmas present to him. Outright shock and tears of joy would follow for a gift quite beyond the extraordinary.

The home is strikingly different from most others as if it defiantly sought to liberate itself from traditional styles and embrace a considerably more modern one.

With a building footprint of 3,200-square-foot, on three-quarters of an acre, this premium-finished structure comfortably has space for all of its five bedrooms (with private balconies), and four full, and two half-bathrooms. Two separate living rooms (upstairs and downstairs) take pride of place, accompanied by a dining area and an island kitchen.

Compelling features include upstairs ‘tray’ ceilings, off-white porcelain tiles, white walls, and glass stair and balcony railings. There are also applaudable waterfall quartz countertops, glass-enclosed showers, soaking tubs, and floating double-basin vanities.

A cabana for a deep state of relaxation sits prominently in the flowery garden, along with a swimming pool with its own in-built, hydromassage heated tub.

George Clarke Jr and his wife, Andita, a public health scientist for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and their children, are now the custodians of the property located in the gated, upscale neighbourhood of Southsea Park, Westmoreland.

Barry Rattray is a dream house designer and builder. Email feedback to barryrattray1@hotmail.com and lifestyle@gleanerjm.com.