“We Borrow From Nature The Space Upon Which We Build”

The Sanctuary Islet’s story starts 25 years ago, when George Gaviria, who used to kayak nearby the land, befriended the previous owner of the property, who lived entirely off the grid. Subsequently the owner passed away and the property immediately went on the market for sale. Mr. Gaviria quickly reached out directly to the heirs to express his interest in buying it. He competed with several big corporate suitors and ultimately prevailed by promising the heirs that he would retain the character and harmony of the property vis a vis its natural preserve.  

 

The home was built on pillars, and the engineering was designed to withstand a Category 5 hurricane.

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“It took over two-and-a-half years to build the house due to the amount of extensive engineering,” Mr. Gaviria said. “I hired one of the top engineering firms in the world who specialize in designing vulnerable properties exposed to high risk. Over the years, the rigorous engineering has lived up to its high expectations. The area was hit by a couple strong hurricanes and the Sanctuary suffered absolutely no damage.” 

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​The result was a beautiful sanctuary, where the intrinsic links between architecture, nature and happiness ended forming a dynamic interplay that goes beyond mere aesthetics to haven, a place where you can find solace and joy. 

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​The Sanctuary Islet has 4,000 square feet upstairs and 4,000 square feet downstairs, with uninterrupted views of the ocean and unparalleled access to the beauty of its natural surroundings. The house is accessible only via a double-gated private road and a 28-foot-tall coral-stone wall greets you to the upstairs living area and the dazzling wraparound balcony.