2021 Winner
49 Mary Street, George Town (Commercial)

49 Mary Street represents a landmark in sustainable design and cultural preservation within the Cayman Islands. The project, undertaken by Arch and Godfrey, involved the renovation and expansion of their 110-year-old office building in George Town—originally the Bodden family home built in the early 1900s. In transforming this historic property into a modern headquarters, the team was guided by three principles: preservation, sustainability, and innovation.

The restored cottage retains its gable roof, timber detailing, and traditional shutters, carefully refurbished to honour Cayman’s architectural heritage. A new contemporary structure, linked by a striking Cayman beach rock wall, complements the original building while introducing modern efficiencies. Together, they create a symbolic dialogue between past and present.

This was the first building in the Cayman Islands to achieve LEED Platinum Certification, scoring 85 points—well above the threshold for the highest international standard of sustainable construction. Innovations include insulated concrete forms, solar photovoltaics generating up to 90% of energy needs, pervious concrete paving, high-efficiency climate control, and a comprehensive recycling and water conservation programme. The building is engineered to withstand Category 5 hurricanes and designed to serve as a shelter for staff and their families.

In its fusion of historic preservation with cutting-edge green technologies, 49 Mary Street sets a new benchmark for commercial development in the Cayman Islands, demonstrating how architecture can respect cultural heritage while embracing a sustainable future.