For this stone-built getaway on Harbour Island, the client asked Sydney Maag to create a luxurious beach retreat, eschewing the typical Bahamian pastel cottage style while still feeling like a true beach vacation home. Sydney thoughtfully approached the project, working to balance the difficult logistics of renovating and decorating in a remote island location with the need to create something that could withstand harsh weather conditions but remain welcoming and warm.
The challenges of climate, construction, and shipping were tricky but not insurmountable, and Sydney remained hands-on throughout, spending as much time on-site as needed to keep the project moving in the right direction. She integrated newly poured concrete floors and opened the roof in the kitchen, adding height and light to the space. The home’s ceilings were clad in weather-resistant ipe wood, complementing the stone found throughout the space.
To soften this, Sydney turned to basketry and weaving, balancing the structure’s hardness with the softness of natural materials. Found and repurposed items were used extensively, like Kuba cloths for upholstery and vintage grain crushers for end tables. Many of the pieces were sourced at local flea markets, including the fabric used for the banquettes. Art also played an important role in the home, and Sydney worked to balance the client’s own selections with local pieces. The result feels luxurious and relaxed without ever tipping into precious or falling back on Bahamian beach cliches.
