St Thomas, Bakers, Barbados

"The Ridge was designed by world renowned architect and interior designer, Mr Peter Inston. Widely acknowledged as one of the iconic leaders in his field Mr Inston's prestigious portfolio includes the Ritz Carlton, Champneys, Savoy Hotel in London, Taymouth Castle in Scotland, Four Seasons Hotel in Hampshire, Gleneagles in Scotland, The Emir of Qatar's palace, as well as designing and building the Irish and Barbados homes of Lord of the Dance star Michael Flatley. The stunning and unique nature of the Ridge meant it took nearly five years to complete. No expense was spared in its sensational construction with many of the features imported from around the world including all of the Italian marble, the centerpiece fountain as well as the courtyard statues. Such attention to details meant even an international artist was flown in from the UK to paint the spectacular dome as you enter the main house. This palatial property sits on 2.68 acres of land and offers 11 bedrooms; there are 5 in the main house, 4 in the charming "chattel house" and 2 in the cottage. The Ridge is the ideal estate for entertaining with fabulous outdoor spaces to suit any occasion. It is complete with a phenomenal temperature controlled wine room, cinema, spa, hairdressers, gym and tennis court. Total floor area is circa 19,000 square feet. The Ridge can be linked to various properties with beach access offering the best of luxury country and beachfront living. The treasure trove of contents within the property has been skillfully selected over the past decade with many of the special and unique items having a strong connection to the Caribbean. Highlights include exceptionally rare film memorabilia such as Charlie Chaplin's personal cane and a very rare vintage film poster collection, including an original for one of the few Hollywood movies to be shot in Barbados, Island in the Sun (1957) starring Harry Belafonte and Joan Collins. There are exceptionally rare furniture pieces by designers Carlo Bugatti and Viscount Linley, as well as incredibly scarce sketches from artist and designer Oliver Messel, who designed many of Barbados' most illustrious houses. Alongside are works by celebrity photographer Terry O'Neill and the largest known Caribbean painting collection of English playwright Noel Coward, accompanied by works from world famous Russian-born French artist, Erte, who visited Barbados many times during his distinguished career. There is even a special painting signed and created by Lord of the Dance star Michael Flatley who placed paint on his tap shoes and danced on the canvas! There are many other priceless pieces and collections that were painstakingly and lovingly put together over many years to make The Ridge the truly magnificent home that it is. "