Dream House | Magnetic modern retreat on Portland’s coast
Published:Sunday | January 18, 2026 | 12:08 AM
Should you ever come across this home right on the quiet Rural Hill main road in Portland, one might suddenly be overcome by an inexplicable feeling.
A phenomenal, magnetic architectural force intimately twinned with lush hillside topography, it may just irresistibly attract and pull you in, rendering you unable to continue your journey.
The building is a modern-day, charismatic show of all-white concrete beams and columns, lavishly filled in with pure sliding glass. Balconies (inner and outer) are incorporated as extensions of the inner spaces, offering bewitching scenery of the undisturbed white sand beach directly across the street. A lightning conductor, wisely installed on the flat roof, safeguards against potentially hazardous lightning strikes.
The soothing effect of these three coastal bedrooms easily induces sleep beyond the often-recommended seven to eight hours. Their associated spa-like bathrooms are in vogue, complemented by double vessel sinks sitting atop polished wood vanities, with glass walk-in showers, and freestanding soaking tubs on sunken beds of natural stone.
A 4,000-square-foot, air-conditioned, open-plan calming layout of oversized, large-format porcelain tiles flows throughout. Living and dining interlink with an island kitchen blessed with a double skylight ceiling with recessed lights.
The infinity edge swimming pool and its pleasure deck facing the sea are actually way up in the air, opening to the middle floor of the tri-level structure. The double carport, staff accommodation and the open entrance stairs occupy the ground floor.
The house was constructed in 2020, representing a dream actualised by the owners. Its physical attraction is not the only reason for its magnetism. There is also the inherent exciting aura that the property exudes, certain to equally leave a lasting impression on those fortunate to lay eyes upon and to experience it.
Barry Rattray is a dream house designer and builder. Email feedback to barryrattray1@hotmail.com and lifestyle@gleanerjm.com.