BUIDING AND LIVING IN THE TROPICS

Living on the tropical island of Anguilla can be a dream come true. Your home can capture the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor living designed to incorporate the sun, the moon, the ocean and the breezes into everyday living.

The tropics are fortunate to boast a climate where there are only two seasons – life can be lived throughout the year, in covered but open construction. Living in the Caribbean, you can live in close contact with the outdoors and enjoy the sensation of openness and closeness that nature brings.

If you are considering building a villa in Anguilla, here are some things you can incorporate into your ideas:

Ventilation:
To enjoy the cool and soothing Anguilla Trade winds and to keep away foes such as mildew and mould, ventilation is a key factor when designing a home. Consider things such as:

• Creating cross ventilation:
o Having windows carefully positioned and roofs sufficiently high to ensure optimal air circulation.
o Utilize wide wall openings, large doors and windows to increase air flow passing through the villa.
o Position bedrooms to receive the breeze and you will have natural air conditioning.
• Using eaves, canopies and sunscreens to create shade in certain areas, especially on the exterior – be generous with covered patio spaces.
• Leave as much green space around the house as possible. Also trees particularly on the west side of the house will keep the house cooler in the late afternoons.

Appropriate materials:
• Reducing Solar Radiation:
º Use light coloured materials for walls and roofs which have the effect of cooling down ceiling and roof surfaces.
• Protection from Salt Erosion: Be aware that for coastal properties or even those away from the coast, most likely properties will be faced with the erosive power of salt spray and air. For instance a sound quality of stainless steel materials may be best for certain pieces of equipment, appliances and fixtures.

Termite resistance:
• Use chemical systems or barriers for areas that require timber. It is also wise to have the foundation of a home sprayed before the villa is built. Keep in mind there are some materials that are naturally termite resistant eg concrete and steel.

Strength:
• The Anguilla Building Code specifies certain usage of steel reinforcements and other structural requirements to ensure strength against tropical elements.

Putting a little thought into making your design “tropics-ready” will enure well to the health and beauty of your property.