SO spotlights designs from architect Vidal Dowding, one of six presenters at the Jamaica Observer’s Design Week 2024 launch at S Hotel, Kingston on Sunday, October 13, 2024.

CASA MD

Client: Private

Location: Kingston

Size: 22,000 sq ft

Bedrooms: 8

Bathrooms: 12

Atelier Vidal created a design based on linearity, openness and a direct response to climate with a tropical contemporary intervention. The house maintains a U-shape at ground level, creating an internal courtyard whose main feature is a 25m lap pool. All public spaces open to the courtyard, with the circular sunken living on axis with the other internal spaces as well as the pool. The upper floor is L-shaped, overlooking the courtyard and with views of Kingston Harbour to the south and the mountain range to the north. The entire upper floor is clad in an operable timber-clad screen that helps to regulate the amount of air and light penetrating the private spaces.

COCOSAN

Client: Private

Location: San San, Portland

Size: 8,000 sq ft

Bedrooms: 7

Bathrooms: 9

This project is focused primarily on the reinterpretation of local materials in order to create a tropical contemporary residence from a formerly abandoned property. By utilising the existing structural components, many of the building’s apertures were increased to offer greater visibility, connectivity and natural cross ventilation. The use of space, in particular the public areas, was reexamined to create improved circulation patterns and offer the flexibility of multiple functions. The scope includes seven en suite bedrooms, a chef’s kitchen, gym and entertainment spaces focused around a lap pool. In keeping with the design ethos of the firm, the property was redesigned as a Tropical Contemporary Villa, with the exterior, interior, landscaping, millwork design and furniture procurement done by Atelier Vidal.