Ultra-Luxe Cape Stout Estate is as Stunning as the Landscape Surrounding It
Located on the dramatic northern tip of Moskito Island in the BVI, this new retreat may be the most architecturally impressive complex in the Caribbean. Did we mention the canal-style pool running throughout the ground floor?
All images courtesy of Moskito Island Estates
Moskito Island, in the British Virgin Islands, is a billionaires’ playground, a private paradise spanning 125 acres, surrounded by turquoise waters, insta-worthy sunsets, and ultra-luxe, all-inclusive “house charters,” accommodating up to 20 guests. Each estate is gorgeous and unique, reflecting the personality of its owner, but the latest entry, Cape Stout, is the finest jewel in this crown, architecturally speaking.
Situated on the very tip of Moskito island, Cape Stout’s six-building estate is designed to maximize both sunset and sunrise views, and to reflect the dramatic, oceanfront landscape. More than indoor-outdoor architecture, the estate becomes one with its surroundings. The expansive main pool fans out to infinity edges on both the north and west sides, echoing the gorge in the adjacent cliff face. A network of terraces invites visitors to stop and watch the waves crashing against the boulders, while steps made of Ipe hardwood and flagstone form a path down to secluded, sandy Honeymoon Beach. And in the HQ, the social hub of the property, a canal-like pool winds its way through the ground floor, undulating through indoor and outdoor spaces.
The interior design is just as breathtaking, and carefully considered, as the architecture. A 60-foot wall mural by Judith Belzer runs alongside the canal pool, with swirling strokes that reference dynamic form of the boulders and rock formations of the Stout peninsula. Decorative screens capture the tropical island breezes, while softening the sun’s glare to a warm glow, offering privacy and shade, reflecting the Moorish and Mediterranean styles found on the islands. These Caribbean architectural influences are visible in the masonry walls and geometric timber pyramid roofs, which, together with the cascading exterior staircases, harmonize beautifully with the island’s rugged cliffside descending to the sea.
Artisanal touches abound throughout the estate. Handmade porcelain tiles from Smoke and Fire grace the HQ bar bathroom, while hand-painted terracotta lines the HQ kitchen backsplash. The Clifftop suites feature a mosaic-tiled indoor shower and terra cotta tiles in the outdoor shower, while the Salt and Sand suites’ outdoor showers feature glass art designed by architects and interior designers and crafted by Peter Houk. Wood sculptures are also displayed throughout, with artwork carved in Bali on view in the Cliffside suites and the HQ bar.
The captivating natural surroundings and the beauty of custom craftsmanship are not the only inspirations for this island masterpiece. The design group—helmed by architects Charles R. Myer & Partners Ltd. with interiors by Andra Birkerts Design—were influenced by Mexican architect Luis Barragán and his dramatic use of color in architectural composition, both in interiors and exteriors. The Cape Stout design team had one theme as their guiding principle: Creating the perfect place for people to celebrate together.
The estate’s eight suites accommodate a range of desired experiences, like the romantic Clifftop suite with private pool garden, created with couples in mind, and the Salt and Sand suites that accommodate children as well. The Beach Barn—with three queen and five full beds installed in a sleeper train-style are where children can enjoy the extended sleepover of their dreams, or guests attending a destination wedding or milestone birthday party can spend the night all together. There are billiards, multiple hot tubs, and a basketball court that doubles as an amphitheater for outdoor movie nights, sporting events, and friendly competitions. The estate is also equipped with a brand new, 42-foot, 1800-horsepower powerboat that comfortably holds 12 guests and three crew members, perfect for exploring BVI’s famed North Sound and beyond.
At the center of the HQ is a hand-crafted communal dining table topped by a stone inset and custom Doug Johnston light fixture above, inviting endless conversation and celebration for up to 20 guests, or as three separate tables for more intimate dining. The outdoor terrace features an original concrete dining table by Opiary that undulates like the coastline below.
Whether your definition of quality time includes lounging in side-by-side hammocks discussing everything and nothing, night swimming in the canal pool, or dancing in the moonlight, Cape Stout is designed to make all your vacation dreams realities.
In the words of interior designer Andra Birkert, “The place is spectacular.”
About Moskito Island Estates
A private paradise in the lush British Virgin Islands, Moskito Island Estates is the shared haven of four visionaries who chose it as the site of their private estates. Now, those properties are available for vacationers seeking to experience that private island lifestyle on the weeks the owners aren’t in residence. Combining the intimacy of private estates with the sophisticated offerings of luxury resorts, Moskito Island embodies the zenith of luxury communal living. Each villa hosts about 20 guests, who can while away the days at the island’s three beaches or in the lush botanical gardens, numerous swimming pools, and various bars, while a dedicated team ensures their vacation is the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. Every estate boasts a distinct personality and caters to a different vacation ideal,: The Point is designed for friends and families, the Village is meant to host grand celebrations, and the Oasis is the perfect setting for corporate retreats. Joining them later this year, Cape Stout is an unmatched home base for design aficionados and thrill-seekers.