Architect John Denton Haley is at it again—and the craftsmanship levels are high. The design mastermind behind the Bungalows, Pavilion, and SALT Plage, Haley’s fourth major project for Christophe Harbour will be the centerpiece of the newly-completed superyacht marina.

"This is the building that could define Christophe Harbour and St Kitts to the world."

Contemporary shops and residences will follow as the marina village grows, he explains, but the Customs House (a working title) will hold its own as classic and timeless—with the look and feel of a formidable shipping building or wharfside warehouse built long ago. At first sight of the design, Haley says many Kittitians often recall the circa-1894 Treasury Building in downtown Basseterre.

From a pedestrian square, narrow streets radiate outward into neighborhoods that will be built with the natural topography on the upland side. The Customs House will feature stone detailing and a series of arched openings made of handmade brick. With an iconic cupola atop, this building will be formidable and strongly identifiable—a beacon. The New England-born architect draws inspiration from St. Kitts of course, as well as from waterfront buildings in Boston, Charleston and Nantucket. But there are Mediternanean influences at play as well. "I find that people, regardless of nationality, identify with that Old World sensibility," Haley adds. "It’s comfortable and familiar, and that’s the feeling we want to portray here."

Read John's Design Reflection.