A Celestial Experience – On the quiet hillside of Belmont Estate rests an island secret. Enter via the protective, arched wooden gates, down a small walkway bordered by a rather majestic-looking rock wall, and welcome to your secret; welcome to Equinox House. This elegant, private, three bedroom, three bathroom home is located just above the beach, amid lavish hillside gardens set in a quiet community on Tortola’s western end. Two beaches are just a short walk away.
Sitting on 1.1 acres of rich land, Equinox House overlooks one of the most dramatic seascapes in the Caribbean. Designed in 1980 by leading island architect, James O’Halloran, Equinox embodies its designer’s Mediterranean tendencies with stucco buildings set around an open courtyard and swimming pool; outside living made practical and stylish. Whether you are an island socialite looking for the perfect space to entertain guests under the Caribbean sun or moon, or seeking the escape and comfort of a tasteful island hideaway, Equinox offers the opportunity for both.
The tinted sliding doors of the main house allow easy access straight from the swimming pool area. Inside, it is a simple and elegant open plan layout; sun and the sound of waves crashing on to the beach pour in through a large arched window just beyond the dining room to provide a wonderful soundtrack and mood lighting for your everyday living.
Sit on the built-in settee at this window to admire the breathtaking views of nearby islands: the white sandy beach of Smuggler’s Cove; the emerald blue Caribbean waters; and an array of coconut and other palms planted betwixt beautiful flowers and tropical shrubs. Pull up a chair, as this settee can easily be turned into a desk, for the perfect writing or reading space. Do not worry about the buzzing of mosquitoes interrupting the natural music in the home; all windows are screened. And don’t worry about keeping cool, either, all major rooms have air conditioning should the delightful breezes be insufficient.
If you are in the mood for entertaining, the dining room seats up to ten guests. A full service kitchen provides convenient storage, modern appliances and a view of the wrap-around garden. The glazed tiles on countertops (also providing the flooring throughout the home) offer an antique appearance and a touch of elegance. The kitchen counter also provides bar seating just right for breakfast for two, and the dark brown cabinetry with its rattan finishing proffers much by way of storage.
The living area, with its island style furnishings, will make you and your guests feel right at home. The soft lighting and simple décor allow you to enjoy its simplicity and appreciate the space; and the space can be extended by opening the doors to the private deck. It’s a perfect sunbathing patio, or if your dinner party is inside, open the doors and let your guests enjoy a star-filled sky.
Just a few short steps up from the living room, you will find the home’s sleeping quarters. Both en suites offer stunning views and practical storage, and are adorned with all of life’s little necessities; comfortable beds and subtle lighting setting the mood for a day’s retirement. For a bit of frivolity, the bathrooms include large, arched doorways to allow you to step out into the charming garden and bathe with nature. The master suite is located across from the courtyard is located across from the courtyard. Cool Caribbean breezes and bright sun enter the room through the main entrance and large windows. Much like the bathrooms in the main house, the bathroom also comes complete with an outside shower, and ample storage in facilities.
For a really private experience, the master suite has a charming kitchenette. Complete with contemporary appliances and mimicking the dark wood and glazed tile theme of the main house, this kitchenette also offers comfortable seating overlooking the lush hillsides. To top off your pleasure, there is a petite dining deck just outside the kitchen doors. At the side of the master suite you will find a full service laundry room, which also provides additional storage facilities.
The focal point of the two building home is the grand courtyard and swimming pool. The courtyard provides enough space for a gathering of family and friends, and the standard size residential pool is steps away from the main house and the guestroom. Adorned with pool side furnishing, the courtyard is ready for activity. At the side of the pool, facing an enchanting view of neighbouring islands and the gleaming sea, steps take you down into the garden filled with pink bougainvilleas, oleanders, an array of hibiscus, shady palms and coconut trees. For those weeks when rain is absent, a modern sprinkler system is sure to keep the garden green.
Whether purchasing for a family home or an investment property, Equinox is simply perfect, having enough space for entertaining friends along with a master suite that is already prepared for renting. In the quiet community of Belmont Estate, a majestic seascape filled with the sounds of nature awaits you. There Equinox House welcomes you to your secret island escape.
Available for: $1,600,000
