Jamaica’s architectural legacy of remarkable houses must include this grand home in Unity Hall, outside of Montego Bay.
The Blackwell family, with youngster Chris (who would later become the illustrious music producer), once lived here before ownership was transferred in the early 1950s.
This was to a French viscount, who was a decorated aviator and adventurer. The viscountess was of American heritage. Former British monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, and Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh, once overnighted here as guests of the couple.
In the late 1960s, with its sensational 180-degree sea and coastal views, the house again changed hands, to an American trailblazing advertising guru, who ran one of the largest ad agencies in the world.
One of Jamaica’s leading luxury home builders at the time, Maffessanti, bought the property in the 1980s, but never lived in it. Neglected, it eventually became dilapidated – empty for 20 long years.
Coming to its restorative rescue in 2007, the Nathan family of London, England, became its new owners; the wife being an interior designer and her husband engaged in finance.
This timeless home leaves you completely breathless with its distinctive aura, displaying an old-world charm and reflecting the lifestyle of its glamorous owners and several famous visitors.
Welcome my friends to a considerable-size, flowing, graceful space of 9,000 square feet, showcasing an impressive entrance hall. The six bedrooms prize their en suite bathrooms, with the principal bedroom having his and her bathrooms and dressing rooms. Be smitten by circular sunken baths, jacuzzi tubs, and showers.
We see a study, and a great room leading to an alfresco verandah, equipped with a wet bar. The elegant dining room fails to escape our attention, along with a huge, granite counter, island-style kitchen. A garage follows.
Other admirable details beckon, with lustrous mahogany and marble floors; famed, distinctive wallpaper; and antique furniture, as well as crystal chandeliers sparkling above.
The six-acre property of exotic landscaping (including a moon garden), stimulates with a potpourri of focal points: the glimmering swimming pool, gazebo, decks, hidden walkways and a bridge. Not to be discounted is a firepit and barbecue grill provision; all protected by an inactive artillery cannon.
A magical explosion of garden water features thrill with several decorative, sculptured waterfalls, fish ponds, and fountains (including one in the very pool), along with outdoor showers and a bathtub. This house will live on in our memories.
Barry Rattray is a dream house designer and builder. Email feedback to barryrattray1@hotmail.com and lifestyle@gleanerjm.com.
