CONVINCED that Reading, on the outskirts of Montego Bay, is “poised to become the next premier residential hub” in the western city, ONLE Group is now selling units in its US$55-million ($8.6 billion) boutique residential development, ONE Reading.

On offer are 84 luxury apartments and 16 town homes. Prices for a one-bedroom start at US$365,000 ($57.5 million), while a three-bedroom town home begins at US$875,000 ($138 million).

ONE Reading has a 2027 completion date. To help attract buyers, the Edward Azan-led ONLE Group is riding on its reputation as the team behind Soleil, a swanky development which changed Montego Bay’s Freeport skyline four years ago.

According to ONLE Director Alesha Peart, ONE Reading has improved upon what was already impressive about Soleil.

“With its 55-suite, mid-rise design, top-tier amenities, and exceptional property management team, Soleil has set the standard for what a high-end residential community should be. Residents enjoy a carefree, well-serviced lifestyle, thanks to an outstanding support team of housekeepers, bellmen, and concierge, all led by a dedicated property management team. Even four years after completion Soleil continues to maintain its pristine appearance and high-quality living experience,” she told the Jamaica Observer.

“ONE Reading builds upon everything that makes Soleil remarkable — while incorporating new opportunities for improvement. We have taken the features homeowners love about Soleil and elevated them in ONE Reading, ensuring an even more refined and thoughtful living experience,” added Peart, who leads client relations, finance, and legal affairs at ONLE.

Based on feedback from Soleil residents, ONE Reading has the extra convenience of dedicated self-storage units for apartment owners. There is also full backup power for all apartments, backup water supply for every home, expanded resort-style amenities, and a focus on long-term maintenance.

“Both developments embrace the island lifestyle, with breathtaking ocean-front views and a deep connection to nature. Our goal remains the same: To create timeless, well-maintained communities where homeowners experience the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and lasting value,” explained Peart.

ONE Reading is being marketed as a smart buy for local homebuyers, Jamaicans living overseas who want to invest in their country, and shrewd investors with an interest in high-value properties.

Peart acknowledged that there is some similarity with clients who would be interested in The Pinnacle, a much larger luxury development also being built in Reading.

“In some ways, our clientèle may overlap with The Pinnacle’s, and we commend our friends there for conceptualising such an incredible development. That said, the main difference is that ONE Reading caters more to homeowners who prefer a smaller, close-knit community,” she told the Sunday Observer.

“Beyond its spectacular location, ONE Reading fosters a true sense of community and connection with beautifully curated amenity spaces designed to bring people together. Whether relaxing by the resort-style clubhouse, enjoying the state-of-the-art fitness facilities, or gathering in the outdoor social areas, residents experience a harmonious blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience in this extraordinary coastal retreat,” Peart added.

Other amenities include elegant lounges, a co-work library, outdoor dining area, roof deck, and a dedicated pickleball court for recreation.

“Our lobby areas will be staffed by an exceptional bell team, inspired by the success of Soleil, to deliver a true resort-style experience. This friendly and professional team will be on hand to assist residents and visitors, whether it’s helping with grocery carts or simply providing a warm welcome. At ONE Reading, every detail has been carefully considered to enhance the luxury and convenience of daily living, making it not just a residence, but a true retreat,” said Peart.

After ONE Reading is completed, ONLE has plans to begin working on another residential development, ONE Ironshore, on the other end of the city. Like Freeport and Reading, Ironshore is one of Montego Bay’s most-sought-after addresses.

“Ironshore holds incredible potential, and we are committed to bringing another outstanding, thoughtfully designed community to this prime location. ONE Ironshore will include single-family homes with extensive amenity and recreational spaces. Exciting things are on the horizon, and we look forward to sharing more details soon!” promised Peart, who said it was too early to put a price tag on that project.

On the commercial side, ONLE is now working on New Spanish Town, a shopping centre located just off the Spanish Town bypass in St Catherine. It will draw inspiration from previous ONLE projects Waterloo Square and Parkway Square that were constructed in Kingston and Portmore, respectively.

“Our goal is to transform the area into a dynamic retail hub, offering a modern and accessible shopping experience,” Peart told the Sunday Observer of New Spanish Town. “It will become a central destination for residents, elevating the area’s retail landscape and contributing to its growth and development.”

For now, the focus is on ONE Reading. Units available include ocean view apartment suites, described as spacious one-, two-, or three-bedroom units with high-end finishes and sweeping views of the tropical landscape. There is also an ocean view from the development’s 16 three-bedroom private town homes.

“Each home offers generous living areas and a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, perfect for families or individuals seeking a private retreat,” said Peart.

ONE Reading is 20 minutes from Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport.