2021 Winner
Botanica, West Bay (Residential)

Botanica is a collection of twelve guest cottage duplexes located at the entrance to Governor’s Harbour. Conceived by Rainbow Development Ltd., a Caymanian husband-and-wife team, the project combines ingenuity, heritage, and hospitality to create a distinctive “cottage colony” within the Seven Mile corridor.

What began as a feasibility study evolved into a visionary response to a uniquely challenging site of long-dormant 2,000 sq. ft. parcels. By applying Section 22 of the Planning Law, the developers were able to craft efficient one-bedroom cottages that make the most of limited footprints. Each duplex is carefully planned so that from the street it reads as a single cottage, with thoughtful variations in entrances and façades enhancing the overall charm.

The architectural language revives traditional Caymanian forms with a modern sensibility. Inspired by historic George Town buildings and Cape Dutch influences, the cottages feature exposed rafters, shiplap interiors, and bronze maritime lanterns, paired with clean lines and contemporary finishes. Each unit is named for local flora, illustrated through commissioned artwork, while interiors incorporate Caymanian crafts and publications that connect guests with the Islands’ cultural history.

Construction methods emphasise efficiency, durability, and resilience. Modified insulated concrete forms (ICF), hurricane-rated windows, waterproofing systems, and sustainable finishes ensure long-term performance within narrow footprints. Innovations such as bay-window extensions, custom storage solutions, and biophilic design elements maximise usability and guest comfort.

True to its name, Botanica is immersed in lush tropical landscaping. Gardens have been designed as an extension of the architecture, offering privacy, serenity, and connection to nature through native plants, fruit trees, and flowering species. Outdoor showers, dining patios, and al fresco living spaces further reinforce the seamless blend of indoor and outdoor life.

Botanica stands apart as an alternative to high-rise condominium development, offering a model of island-style hospitality rooted in heritage and landscape. It demonstrates that small-scale, locally inspired architecture can flourish alongside modern development—preserving Cayman’s architectural identity while inspiring a renewed appreciation for “Island Style.”