Mon | Dec 30, 2024

Dream House | A sacred seaside homage

Published:Sunday | December 29, 2024 | 12:09 AM
Pause
This bathroom is an example of some of the curved walls in the house.
Contributed
This bathroom is an example of some of the curved walls in the house.
A hilltop, seaside residence inspired by traditional African housing and the Rastafari movement.
Contributed
A hilltop, seaside residence inspired by traditional African housing and the Rastafari movement.
The upper deck commands the spectacular vista.
Contributed
The upper deck commands the spectacular vista.
A part rounded wall bedroom exiting to the outdoor.
Contributed
A part rounded wall bedroom exiting to the outdoor.
1
2
3
4

This blessed place of residence, oriented on its own hilltop and seafront spot, brings to us an aura of spirituality. Its architecture and interior ornamentation is inspired by the Rastafari religious and social movement and much of Africa’s traditional housing concepts.

We recognise the noticeable presence of thatched roofing and rounded walls, together with the use of concrete, bamboo, and some wattle and daub; complemented by the employment of the spirited colours of yellow, red, gold, black, green, and the earthy tone of brown – as seen on expressive walls, patterned fabrics, handcrafted symbols, motifs, and artistic murals, including pottery and masks.

The Ethiopian national flag and the Conquering Lion of Judah Rastafarian flag ever flutter in the breeze. Conscious music quietly fills the air, pulsating with songs, chants and prayers. The image and the spirit of Rastafari’s ‘King of Kings’, former emperor of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie I, is evident in the pictures.

A ritualistic firepit emits its eternal flame 24 hours a day in the yard of praise and worship, while smoke sometimes fills the air with those who light up for sacramental reasons. A gazebo offers relaxation and meditation as you take in the natural vibes of ‘livity’ around you. Here, my friends, living in the core of nature is sacrosanct.

The peaceful, clean, and unostentatious house was constructed with three bedrooms, three (walk-in shower) bathrooms, living areas, and an upper viewing deck and porch – all mostly with hair-raising views of aquamarine waters, and the Santa Cruz mountain range as a backdrop.

Peggy Knecht, a retired travel agent in Toronto, Canada, had met and became enamoured with now deceased, Iyaras Thomas, a building restoration technician in Toronto. In time, they would purchase this quarter-of-an-acre divine property in 2004, at Old Wharf Road, Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth. Iyaras would eventually become a Rastafarian, even travelling to Ethiopia to solidify his faith. His daughter, Sasha, is also now part of the ownership.

This house speaks to One Love, with Rastafarians chanting, “Jah Rastafari”.

Barry Rattray is a dream house designer and builder. Email feedback to barryrattray1@hotmail.com and lifestyle@gleanerjm.com.