Banana

In a bold departure from Caribbean style, this dramatic, five-bedroom custom home is perfectly perched on the edge of a cliff looking down into breaking surf and beyond to sea vistas dotted with distant islands. All sleekly done in a minimalist mode of formed grey concrete (even the floors inside and out are of cool concrete), this private villa sets a new standard of design on St. Thomas with its primitive-modern style.

Stands of tropical banana trees along a staircase welcome you to Banana's six pavilions, beautifully arranged along the cliff line. Banana's main level centers around the breathtaking Promontory Terrace, offering the breezy Great Room which features a large, flat-screen cable TV, sitting and dining areas, and the heart of Banana - adjoining indoor and outdoor kitchen areas set for alfresco dining and gathering, all linked together by a covered gallery walkway artistically punctuated by a series of courtyards, terraces and verandahs.

At one end of Banana are three air-conditioned king bedroom/bath suites. Two of these suites occupy a two-story pavilion beside the living and outdoor dining areas, and the third king suite is at the mezzanine level just adjacent to that pavilion. At the opposite end of Banana's sweeping expanse are two more air-conditioned king bedroom/bath suites, each in its own private pavilion bisected by a trellised courtyard.

And just below is the dramatic pool, built amongst massive boulders and overlooking soothing waves and pelicans diving for their dinner. Ethnic design and furnishings influenced by trips overseas complete the very pleasing fare at Banana - and you'll revel in the openness and free-spirited ambience and the expansive space of this cool, breezy and awe-inspiring hideaway perched over the sea.