Top 5 Grand Cayman design trends

Many homeowners in the Cayman Islands are taking a more thoughtful approach to interior design in 2017 by reducing their environmental footprint and creating a more organic, simplified lifestyle. From smart technology to health-conscious homes – we share the top five interior design trends seen in Grand Cayman real estate.

1. SMART technology

Homes that come alive with a simple touch, voice command, or wave of the hand, otherwise known as “smart features,” are fast becoming a necessity rather than a luxury. Occupancy-aware control systems can sense when you are home, triggering automatic responses for energy efficiencies and comfort applications.

With recent advances in artificial intelligence, there are many ways to simplify life. From “social bots” that answer calls and remind you of important tasks, to motion-sensor flooring that converts your footprints to energy, to phone apps that regulate your lighting and temperature controls. So when you are out, lying on Seven Mile Beach, and can’t recall if you switched off the iron, oven, or lights, they can all be turned off with your smartphone.

2. Amenity rich

Living in the Cayman Islands is living where you vacation and a vacation is only complete with an amenity-rich lifestyle. Tennis courts, golfing, fine dining, wellness and fitness facilities, lavish pools and of course your own dedicated concierge are all de rigueur when buying oceanfront Grand Cayman real estate.

The awe-inspiring Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman offer panoramic views of renowned Seven Mile Beach and provide unfettered access to all the privileges expected from a Ritz-Carlton resort, such as La Prairie Spa, five restaurants including Blue by Eric Ripert and even an eco-adventure programme for children, the Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment programme.

3. Bold prints and focal points

Large-scale geometric prints, intricate tapestries and botanical themes have also made a comeback, as have vintage-inspired patterned tiles and flooring. You do not have to go overboard as these elements can be introduced randomly and in small details or spaces to create a dramatic focal point.

Luxurious handcrafted accessories like a one-of-a-kind ceramics collection or artisanal accents like pillows and quilts from far-flung places evoke an exotic, lived-in feeling — they also make great conversation pieces. Design Studio at Camana Bay, Grand Cayman’s premier interior design firm, incorporated such accessories in various hues of blues in their design of a three bedroom residence at The Residences at Seafire.

4. The sustainable healthy home

Sustainable, eco-friendly interiors continue to be a big trend in 2017 as Cayman Islands homeowners seek a more conscientious approach to design. Moreover, a focus on the healthy home is surpassing green building practices.

Air tight homes are energy efficient, but trapped air and poor ventilation can cause increased air to become stale. Living in the Cayman Islands, air conditioning is a must, but although a closed tight home stays cool, it can however cause a build up of interior pollutants. To counteract home toxins, many Grand Cayman homes are designed to let the cool Caribbean breezes in, and let the warm stale air escape.

One of the easiest ways to improve the air quality, reduce airborne dust and lower room temperatures in your home is by simply adding plants. Plants also help reduce stress to create a feeling of wellbeing.

Homes in the Cayman Islands also reduce energy costs by letting the bright natural light in. The Residences at Seafire, have achieved this by installing energy-efficient floor-to-ceiling windows and in some residences, NanaWall® systems, seamless folding glass doors that blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Using raw, natural materials like wood, stone and cement are also on trend in Caribbean real estate. Some Grand Cayman properties have even incorporated local natural materials, such as the impressive Peninsula Estate which features a meticulously laid coconut tile wall in the master bedroom foyer.

5. Outdoor kitchens

The heart of the home is in the kitchen, and in the Cayman Islands, that heart is happiest outdoors. Bon Vivant at Camana Bay offers expert guidance on designing both indoor and outdoor kitchens, and is the leading boutique kitchen store in Grand Cayman offering everything from speciality items to cooking classes.

This October, The Residences at Seafire will welcome residents to their new sanctuary which includes a private owners-only rooftop lounge, The Nest, perfectly appointed by Martyn Lawrence Bullard, complete with an outdoor kitchen and bar suited for small intimate gatherings or large lavish parties.

Whatever the trend, the key is to make your home your sanctuary and to put your personal stamp on it. Ultimately, trends can be followed, but it is more important to design a space where you and your family can feel a sense of comfort and inner happiness.