The traditional British West Indies house designs have a distinctive style that reflects the culture of the island’s rich history. This style is a combination of the European influences of the 18th century and the native Caribbean traits of the region. These type of houses is usually characterized by its steeply sloping roofs, which are accentuated with wide eaves to protect the house from the hot tropical sun. These roofs are often painted in multiple shades, such as blues, greens and even yellows. Other traditional British West Indies designs have characteristics from the Bahamas, such as twin gables. The interior of a traditional British West Indies house often includes French doors, high ceilings, and bright, airy spaces.Traditional British West Indies House DesignTraditional British West Indies House Design
Traditional British West Indies House Design
Modern British West Indies house designs take many of the traditional elements from the British West Indies, but they also incorporate more contemporary features. This style of architecture can be seen in many upscale residential areas in the Caribbean and in the United States. These modern designs feature airy open spaces, high ceilings, and large windows to take advantage of views of the ocean or the lush Caribbean landscapes. Many of these contemporary homes utilize modern materials such as concrete, metal and glass, giving them a contemporary and unique look. The modern British West Indies house designs also often employ modern designs and techniques when it comes to building and construction, with many incorporating energy efficient technologies into their designs.Modern British West Indies House DesignModern British West Indies House Design
Modern British West Indies House Design
The Tudor British West Indies house design is a combination of two distinct architectural styles—the XVI century British architecture and the post-Victorian Caribbean architecture. This style is characterized by its low pitched roofs, white washed wood accents and long, sweeping windows. The exterior of the house is usually made from white washed stucco or concrete, as well as the roofs, which tend to be very steep. The interior of a Tudor British West Indies house also often includes English-style wood beams, high ceilings, wide paneling, and painted walls. This combination of styles is a perfect blend for a home that is both timeless and modern.Tudor British West Indies House DesignTudor British West Indies House Design
Tudor British West Indies House Design
The cottage British West Indies house design is a unique combination of the traditional and modern. It is defined by its low sloped roofs, white-washed wood accents, and wide windows. This type of house is usually built on a smaller scale and is typically quite cozy, while still offering plenty of room for entertaining. The interior of a cottage British West Indies house is often quite airy, with high ceilings, light-colored walls and large windows to take advantage of the beautiful Caribbean views. Wood paneling and white-washed walls help to create a warm atmosphere and reflect the sun’s rays into the home. Cottage British West Indies House DesignCottage British West Indies House Design
Cottage British West Indies House Design
The Spanish-influenced British West Indies house designs draw on the region’s rich colonial heritage. These types of houses feature distinct Spanish features such as plaster walls, red tile roofs, and triangular arches. They also typically have earthy colors, such as terracotta and earth tones, and they usually have intricate details. This style of house is often found in the upscale neighborhoods of many Caribbean islands. The interiors of a Spanish-influenced British West Indies house are typically very bright and airy, with lots of space and natural light. Wooden details are commonly used throughout the home and the architecture is usually quite minimal.Spanish British West Indies House DesignSpanish British West Indies House Design
Spanish British West Indies House Design
The English Barbadian British West Indies house design is a combination of the British colonial architecture and the tropical Caribbean influences. This style of house is usually characterized by its high-pitched gables, wide porches, and deep verandas. The rooflines on these type of houses are often steeply pitched to make the most of the island’s climate and to divert rainwater away from the house. The interior of an English Barbadian British West Indies house is typically quite formal, with lots of wood accents, high ceilings, and luxurious furnishings. The bedroom will often feature a four-poster bed made of mahogany or other fine hardwood.English Barbadian British West Indies House DesignEnglish Barbadian British West Indies House Design
English Barbadian British West Indies House Design
The Dutch British West Indies house design is an interesting combination of Dutch colonial and Caribbean styles. This house style incorporates the Dutch gable rooflines, which are common in traditional Dutch houses. It also features the high ceilings, arches, and other features found in Caribbean homes. This type of house is usually made with coral stone and stucco, giving it a rustic look and feel. The interiors of a Dutch British West Indies house are often quite light and airy, and the combination of Dutch and Caribbean styles add a bit of European flair to the home. The wood accents further reinforce this unique look.Dutch British West Indies House DesignDutch British West Indies House Design
Dutch British West Indies House Design
The vernacular British West Indies house design is an interesting combination of both modern and traditional design principles. The exterior of these houses are typically made from coral stone and stucco, and they often have steeply pitched roofs. The interiors of a vernacular British West Indies house usually feature high ceilings and lots of wood accents, such as teak and mahogany. The furniture in these type of houses is usually brightly colored and well-crafted. These features create a unique look and feel that is distinctively Caribbean. Vernacular British West Indies House DesignVernacular British West Indies House Design
Vernacular British West Indies House Design
The French West Indian British house design is an interesting combination of the French and British colonial architecture of the Caribbean. This style of house typically has steeply pitched roofs with wide eaves, which are often painted in multiple shades. The exterior is usually made from coral stone and stucco, and the windows typically feature a broad arched shape. The interiors of a French West Indian British house are usually airy and quite bright, and the furniture is usually quite ornate. White washed wood accents and rich wooden tones on the floor and walls also contribute to the overall ambiance of the home. French West Indian British House DesignFrench West Indian British House Design
French West Indian British House Design
The Caribbean British West Indies house design is a unique style that takes cues from both the modern and traditional styles of the Caribbean. The design of these type of house is typically quite eclectic, with a mixture of Dutch, French, English, and Caribbean influences. The exterior is usually made from coral stone and stucco, and the windows typically feature arched shapes. The interior of a Caribbean British West Indies house usually incorporates features such as wood floors, high ceilings, and white washed walls. The furniture is usually brightly colored and ornate, reflecting the vibrant culture of the Caribbean. Caribbean British West Indies House DesignCaribbean British West Indies House Design
Caribbean British West Indies House Design
The gingerbread British West Indies house design is a unique style of house that has been popular in the Caribbean for centuries. This style of house typically features a steeply pitched, overlapping roof made from ubiquitous gingerbread thatched palm leaves. Its exterior is usually made from coral stone and stucco, and the windows typically feature a broad arched shape. The interiors of a gingerbread British West Indies typically incorporate high ceilings, airy rooms, and lots of white washed wood accents. Brightly colored furniture and light fixtures complete the look. Gingerbread British West Indies House DesignGingerbread British West Indies House Design
Gingerbread British West Indies House Design
The Bold and Thoughtful Design of British West Indies Houses
British West Indies houses, also known as Caribbean houses, embody a unique blend of Spanish, French and Dutch design elements that create a bold and thoughtful style. The most iconic example of this style is found in Barbados where many of the wooden-structured houses look as if they have been untouched for centuries. Every element – from the roof to the foundation – was deliberately chosen to reflect the particular culture of the region.
Characteristics of British West Indies Homes
The most recognizable feature of British West Indies houses is their bright colors, often a mix of yellows, blues and greens. This helps to reflect the natural light and counteract the humidity of the region. The front façade is typically adorned with decorative elements such as shutters, gingerbread trim and columns, creating a sense of grandeur and pride. The exterior of the house often includes a terrace, further emphasizing the relationship with the surroundings.
Calming and Functional Interiors
The interior of a British West Indies house follows the same design principles. Rooms are kept airy and open to allow for natural air flow. The walls are often whitewashed and the trim is often brightly-hued. Plastered floors, wood furniture and wicker accessories provide an aesthetic that is calming and practical. Decorative features such as ceiling fans bring a bit of grandeur while built-in seating provides comfort.
Finding Inspiration in British West Indies House Design
The unique design features of British West Indies architecture have inspired many aspiring architects and homeowners alike. The simple yet intricate design of these houses has captivated many keen observers over time. Whether you are planning to build a Caribbean-style house or just want to be inspired by the style, the British West Indies house is sure to be a source of inspiration.
