An Architect generally responds to the challenge of finding an inspired use for an existing property by an owner or owners of existing properties that are now difficult to rent. These are the opportunities that feed the inspiration. Usually their current use and condition do not match the potential of the site. Given the funds, these are properties that can reveal many exciting projects.
If the owner alone does not bring the need for inspiration then the next source of the research is usually a category of person with the loose title of “developer”. The designs then take a different life, inspiration is then affected by ability for the developer to source seed funds to pay for the Architect’s talents. Many in this category are the cause of frustration and financial concern for the Architect.
But some fun projects find their way onto paper! Bermuda House is in that category. A good project looking for the promised source of funding.
Bermuda House took shape when a developer came to our offices with a request that we help him find a suitable home for under utelised funds. Many opportunities were discussed for various sites until the question was raised as to what the developer really had in mind? In this instance the response was a surprise - A Boutique Hotel
The site we reviewed first was a typical 50’ x 200’ lot on Front Street which was for sale by its Bermuda family owners. Regretfully the site was too narrow and so we suggested that the owners of the sites on the adjacent lots be asked to participate. They agreed! Two Bermuda families joining forces? Yes it happened!
It happened to the level shown on the preliminary drawings shown below. A 20,000 sq ft lot on Front Street directly opposite the Cruise Ships berth? Unheard of! The developer could not perform and the project became un-financed.
The project was a great one to work on and had the potential of producing good urban architecture. It was indeed a pleasure to work on.
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