The Great House: A Treasure Trove

Timeless Roots, Modern Fruits

How can one preserve the charm of a traditional Barbadian home while introducing modern luxury? This was the challenge faced by the owners of The Great House when they decided to remodel the property. In 2018, Bajan architect Michael Gomes of MGA Inc. took on the task. The renovation transformed both the property and preserved its original character.

The Great House is divided into two parts, separated by a public road: the bedrooms and living areas are on the “sea” side, while the games room, gym and tennis court are on the “island” side. For convenience, there is a pedestrian crossing, and butlers are available to escort elderly guests and children in a golf cart available for this purpose, making it easy to move between the two areas.

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Inside, the open-concept design of the piano room, library, and dining pavilion seamlessly connects the indoor and outdoor spaces. In The Great Bar, two beautiful saltwater aquariums add a touch of calm, blending the natural world with the relaxed feel of the house.

Interior designer Leslie Sturm, thoroughly explored Barbados’s history, visiting historic houses and meeting local artists and historians to capture the island’s essence. The remodel removed various past additions, focusing on the main house, cottages, pavilions, and gazebos. These structures were redesigned with larger dimensions and materials like timber and coral stone to maintain authenticity. Nature was a key consideration, with the owners prioritising the preservation of mature trees such as palms, mahoganies, frangipani, and a vibrant royal poinciana near the pool. Landscape designer Zak Stuart worked to enhance the interiors by complementing, rather than competing with, the lush natural surroundings.

The transformation of the main pavilion at The Great House highlights the renovation’s success. What was once a formal gathering space has been reimagined into a welcoming and relaxing area by removing walls and doors.

Barbados and The Local Area

Barbados sits to the east of the Windward Islands. It is celebrated for its vibrant culture that blends African, British, and Indigenous influences and is known for its stunning landscapes, friendly locals, delicious cuisine, unique rums, fascinating wildlife, and distinctive architecture. It’s also the birthplace of global superstar Rihanna!

The island’s coastline features pristine beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand. Inland, rolling hills are covered in lush greenery, leading to picturesque waterfalls and natural pools, or underground caves like Harrison’s Cave, known for its beautiful limestone formations and clear streams.

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Food lovers will enjoy exploring the diverse gastronomy of Barbados from stylish gourmet restaurants to vibrant street stalls.

The Great House is in a peaceful area in the northwest of Barbados, on the Platinum Coast, close to the popular Mullins Beach. The Platinum Coast is famous for its ultra luxury resorts and pristine beaches, attracting celebrities and affluent travellers with its clear waters and high-end real estate.

At The Great House, you’ll enjoy 100 metres of beachfront and a variety of watersports utilising their two boats, a 33ft Regal luxury motor boat for sophisticated sunset cruises and an 18ft speedboat for waterskiing, ride-on inflatables and wakeboarding.

Moments Like This

At The Great House, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy, play tennis on a floodlit court, or relax with a massage either in dedicated rooms or on the balconies. The famous surfing spot, the Soup Bowl, is less than 20 km away and offers spectacular views. You can also swim with turtles or dive in some of the clearest waters in the Caribbean.

The villa boasts a team of 26 highly flexible staff members who can cater to all your needs. Many have been with The Great House for years and have even welcomed back guests who first visited as children.

Interview: Russell Croney, General Manager of The Great House

What is one unique aspect of The Great House?

In Barbados, a luxurious 12-bedroom villa situated on a stunning west coast beach is a rarity. The full-time staff and extensive all-inclusive services set it apart, offering the comforts of a five-star hotel while still functioning as a family home.

What inspired the architectural design of The Great House?

The original design was influenced by the opulence of 17th and 18th-century homes. Recent renovations have embraced a more modern, casual Caribbean aesthetic, prioritising indoor/outdoor living, breathtaking sea views, and refreshing airflow.

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How do you assemble and manage a team of staff to maintain such a high standard of luxury and service?

We benefit from a remarkably low staff turnover, which is crucial for fostering a cohesive team. We hire personable individuals who genuinely wish to provide the best of Barbadian hospitality and ensure they are well-trained in the high service standards established at The Great House.

What’s a benefit of the villa’s location that is completely unexpected or quirky?

Our villa is a unique oasis nestled within a tranquil, traditional Bajan neighbourhood, just 10 minutes from the charming town of Speightstown. We often describe it as a private island on an island—once you pass through our gates, the outside world feels miles away.

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Is there a signature feature that holds special significance to you?

The numerous secluded spaces throughout the property offer guests the opportunity for quiet reflection away from others. The thoughtfully designed features exude relaxed comfort rather than formal stiffness, creating an atmosphere of calm and peace.

What is the trademark of The Great House?

Our hallmark is a comprehensive offering of services and amenities, coupled with an unwavering commitment to exceeding our guests’ expectations.

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What insights have you gained from working at The Great House?

Transitioning from hotel management to the villa market has been a revelation. While I previously interacted with many hotel guests, the experience at The Great House is far more personal. From pre-arrival discussions with guests and their agents to the entire team coming together to welcome and bid farewell to each guest, it fosters a truly unique atmosphere.

How do you handle guests’ requests for additional services?

We meet with guests via Zoom prior to their arrival, or in person immediately upon their arrival, to discuss their needs, requests, and desires. Our team often goes above and beyond in fulfilling these wishes. Our unofficial motto is, “You only have to ask,” and we maintain excellent local contacts to help turn dreams into reality.

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Are there any nearby events for which The Great House is a great accommodation option?

Nothing in Barbados is far away, and transportation is readily accessible. Often, guests plan to explore, but once they arrive, they find themselves enjoying the property and all it has to offer instead.

What dish do you crave the most at The Great House?

I particularly enjoy our modern interpretations of classic Bajan dishes, especially the homemade pizzas served in our beach bar overlooking the ocean, along with the best chocolate brownie imaginable—all complemented by a wonderful selection of wines (all included).

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From your perspective, what would a perfect day or weekend look like for a guest at The Great House?

A perfect day would start with sleeping in, followed by a personalised breakfast request from the chef. A cruise along the West Coast in our luxury motorboat, complete with a delightful picnic and chilled rosé, would follow. After a game of tennis and a couple of massages in the serene spa room, I would enjoy a movie night with my partner in the cosy cinema, then watch another film under the stars on the outdoor screen with family.

How do you infuse local culture and traditions into the guest experience at your villa?

One highlight is arranging a trip in an antique open-sided Bajan bus to a picturesque, off-the-beaten-path location, complete with an elegant picnic that has been expertly transported and set up, featuring tables and chairs ready for their arrival.

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If you could offer guests one piece of advice for making the most of their stay, what would it be?

Enjoy as much of the property, staff, and services as possible, but also take time to explore some of what Barbados has to offer—saving some experiences for future visits.

What are the most interesting experiences that you can offer to guests?

While we cannot create this experience on demand, we are located on Turtle Beach, where many guests have had the unforgettable experience of witnessing turtle hatchings. They often participate with the Turtle Conservation Society—truly a bucket-list moment. Guests also love snorkelling in our reefs and swimming with hawksbill turtles.

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