Photography by Deborah Whitlaw and Jackie Bogdany.

‘Baraka’, a Sufi word meaning ‘blessed’, connotes the intensely personal design ethos of Baraka Point. Inspired by their travels, the couple created a fusion of multi-cultural influences, drawing heavily on the Moroccan, Indonesian, Chinese and Indian vernaculars to create a hip synthesis of styles, which they dub ‘Eclectic Caribbean’. Using architect Ed Jones of OBM International, BVI to translate their dreams into blueprints, the couple fastidiously masterminded the project, intent on three prevailing ideals: to capture every view, to create their dream without compromise and to blend ins­ide and out, providing effortless harmony, balance and flow.

The result is a remote 12,000 square foot villa with lime-washed terracotta exterior, set amid two acres of lush private gardens that create an enticing sense of seclusion. Boasting unrivalled 280˚ views over the Seal Dog Islands, Drake’s Passage, Long Bay and Tortola, the six spacious oceanview suites, main living area and wellness spa are housed under five copper-peaked pavilions, all barely discernible through the lush foliage.

A home-from-home, Baraka Point doubles as an exclusive luxury rental property when the owners are not in residence. Not concerned with outward display, there is nothing ostentatious in the understated, rustic appeal of stained concrete floors, complete with natural imperfections and accentuated by beautifully patterned kilims and rugs from Afghanistan and Turkey; nor in the oversize teak-framed daybeds scattered here and there, laden with exuberantly coloured silk sari ribbon cushions. Baraka Point is about heart and barefoot luxury.

Interestingly, the design evolved very much from the inside décor out, with furniture commissioned from China and India months in advance of plans being drawn. Individually decorated and named according to their region of inspiration, suites are characterised by a preponderance of teak-chic, vibrantly coloured silks and Italian linens. With paint imported from Australia, wall colour is central to the soothing ambience. As the owners themselves testify, “You actually feel the colours at Baraka Point, you  don’t just see them.” Using lime, purple and jade to emulate the colours of the garden and sea, the design scheme oozes character, while copper and bronze lanterns and sconces become elements of style.

Giant windows and louver-topped bi-fold doors fashioned from Iroko (an African hardwood) frame views out onto the many terraces that dot the property. Never is this more pronounced than in the main pavilion, the heart of the house containing living, lounging and dining areas as well as the gourmet kitchen. As one guest describes, “The view just swims into the room...”.­­­­­

Against the dramatic backdrop of green hills, vast volcanic boulders and tranquil sea coves, what Baraka Point succeeds wildly in doing is amalgamating stand-out design features to create a home that is not only visually stimulating but brimming with personality and authenticity. Sipping sundowners, watching another signature sunset, it all becomes crystal clear: dreams can come true… believe and you will be blessed.