Jondal Exumas

Norman’s Cay, Exumas, Bahamas. 2022 – ongoing

The Foundation was approached for advice on how to conserve the nature and biodiversity of this small, privately owned and relatively unspoilt island whilst sympathetically integrating new developments. Following a study tour of the island, three proposals were made.

First, to advocate for a masterplan that would propose long-term strategies for energy and water, identify conservation areas, zone for potential developments and have a landscaping and road policy for enhancing the existing flora and fauna. Second was the selection of a site for the first of a new generation of developments—in this case, a beach restaurant. The outcome is a site that is set back from the beach, fronted by dunes and palm trees and set in a newly defined conservation area.

The third proposal is for a new vernacular of prefabricated timber structures that touch the ground lightly, maximising shade and natural ventilation, and roofings of indigenous thatch. This organic approach would enable buildings to recede into the landscape and encourage an alternative to the conventional resort development model.