Villa Corail

At the bottom of the lawn at Villa Corail, the garden simply stops at the rocks and the sea begins. The house sits right at the water's edge, at the head of a small, sheltered bay framed by steep green hills. Across the water rises a rocky headland with an islet, and the open sea lies beyond. For waterfront living with privacy, this villa in Flamands, St Barts is a strong choice.

Contemporary low slung pavilions make up the house. Deep timber lined roofs rest on slim steel columns, and full height glass doors slide back to the garden. Dark stone walls ground the design, and some pavilions carry planted green roofs. At the end of the pool, a large hip roofed open pavilion offers shade.

Inside, warm timber ceilings and wood paneled walls are paired with gray flagstone and concrete floors. Leather and tan wood furniture suits the natural palette. The long kitchen and dining area has a wood island and a bar counter. There is also a home gym with a round window.

The long rectangular lap style pool is edged in dark stone and runs toward the sea. Beside it, a long wood table seats about 12 for outdoor meals. Covered lounges hold leather sofas and lamps for the evening. Down in the garden, a sunken sofa lounge invites a nap. Teak armchairs are placed on the lawn and right by the rocks. Stepping stone paths wind through tropical planting, and a BBQ is available. Covered parking is provided.

Ten guests sleep in five bedrooms, all with king beds. Most open directly onto the garden or the bay, and picture windows frame the water. Robes hang in the stone bathrooms, where big windows sit beside the walk in showers. Even a shower comes with a view.

Flamands is known for its long white sand beach. The neighborhood around it is quiet and mostly homes. For a house that opens more to the view, see Villa Anémone, with 5 bedrooms for up to 10 guests and a built-in white lounge terrace.

Ten guests who care about design will enjoy having the water this close. Mornings at this villa in Flamands, St Barts can start with a workout and end with coffee in a teak chair by the rocks.