Perched on the hill above the Branson Estate, the Aerie on Moskito Island is one of the most prestigious properties in the British Virgin Islands. This estate, designed by the late renowned architect Dr. Ken Kao, offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, tranquility, and breathtaking natural beauty. Listed at $58,000,000, it stands as a testament to exquisite design and opulent living.
Architectural Elegance and Design
Dr. Ken Kao’s vision for The Aerie on Moskito Island is both grand and harmonious with its natural surroundings. This property boasts 270-degree views of the ocean, Necker Island, and the North Sound, including iconic locations like the Bitter End Yacht Club, Biras Creek, and Saba Rock. The Aerie’s design seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor living spaces, allowing residents to enjoy the Caribbean’s cooling trade winds and stunning sunsets from virtually every room.
The centerpiece of the estate is the Great Room, which mirrors the aesthetic of Necker Island. This space invites nature indoors, featuring large openings that blend the interior with the vast exterior terraces and gardens. The Great Room also includes an infinity pool with a swim-up bar and hot spa area, perfect for relaxation while soaking in the panoramic vistas.
The architectural design incorporates natural materials and a palette that reflects the island’s serene environment. Local stone walls, wooden beams, and expansive glass windows create a cohesive and elegant aesthetic that is both modern and timeless. This thoughtful integration of natural elements not only enhances the beauty of the property but also ensures it remains in harmony with its surroundings​ (Doorways International).
Luxurious Accommodations
The Aerie spans an impressive area and features eight spacious bedrooms and two additional staff bedrooms. The Master Suite and the first Guest Suite are located just above the Great Room, offering direct access to the estate’s central living areas. Below these suites, a whimsical Kids’ Bunk Room is designed to accommodate multiple children, providing a playful and comfortable space.
Two Courtyard Guest Suites, each with private terraces, offer guests secluded spots to enjoy the breathtaking views. A short walk through tropical landscaped gardens leads to two Hilltop Guest Suites and the Hilltop Guest House, which is renowned for offering some of the most awe-inspiring views on the entire property​​.
Each bedroom is designed with luxury and comfort in mind. The Master Suite features a private balcony, a spacious walk-in closet, and a lavish en-suite bathroom with a soaking tub overlooking the ocean. The Guest Suites are equally luxurious, with en-suite bathrooms, private terraces, and stunning views. The Kids’ Bunk Room is a delightful space, complete with custom-built bunk beds and a cozy reading nook, making it an ideal retreat for younger guests.
State-of-the-Art Amenities
The Aerie is not just about stunning views and luxurious accommodations; it is also equipped with a variety of amenities designed to provide a comprehensive luxury living experience. The infinity pool, with its swim-up bar, is a focal point for relaxation and social gatherings. Adjacent to the pool, the hot spa area provides a perfect spot for unwinding.
For those who enjoy active lifestyles, Moskito Island offers a wide array of water sports, boating, tennis, and other activities. The island’s 132 acres are meticulously maintained, providing an array of natural beauty spots and recreational facilities. Homeowners and guests can gather at the beautifully appointed waterfront community area, which serves as a social hub for the island’s residents​​.
The estate also includes a state-of-the-art fitness center, a private cinema, and a wine cellar. The fitness center is fully equipped with the latest exercise machines and offers panoramic views of the ocean, making workouts more enjoyable. The private cinema is perfect for movie nights with family and friends, while the wine cellar, stocked with a curated selection of fine wines, is ideal for connoisseurs.
Environmental Harmony
One of the most striking aspects of The Aerie is its design harmony with the environment. The estate’s architecture and landscaping are crafted to blend seamlessly with the island’s natural topography and vegetation. Natural local stone walls and Moroccan plaster finishes add a touch of regional authenticity to the otherwise modern and luxurious estate​.
The landscaping around the estate features native plants and trees, which enhance the beauty of the property and support local wildlife. The gardens are designed to be both beautiful and sustainable, using drought-resistant plants and efficient irrigation systems to minimize water usage. This commitment to sustainability is a key aspect of the estate’s design, ensuring that The Aerie remains a harmonious part of the island’s ecosystem.
Exclusive Island Community
Moskito Island itself is a part of a larger vision by Sir Richard Branson, who purchased the island in 2007. Branson enlisted Dr. Ken Kao to create a master plan for a private island community that would cater to friends, colleagues, and like-minded entrepreneurs. The island is divided into ten estate lots and features the Branson Estate along with several custom homes. The Aerie, as the last home designed by Dr. Kao, stands as a tribute to his architectural legacy​.
The island’s exclusive nature is a significant draw for potential homeowners. With only a handful of estate homes available, residents enjoy unparalleled privacy and luxury. The community areas and social hubs on the island are designed to foster a close-knit environment, encouraging interactions among residents while maintaining the serenity that such a secluded location provides.
The island community is managed with a focus on security and privacy, ensuring that residents can enjoy their time without interruption. Staff are discreet and highly trained, providing impeccable service while respecting the privacy of homeowners and their guests. This level of service, combined with the island’s natural beauty and luxurious amenities, makes Moskito Island one of the most desirable residential locations in the Caribbean.
Investment Opportunity
Owning a property like The Aerie is not just about luxury living; it’s also a substantial investment. The exclusive nature of Moskito Island, combined with the limited number of available properties, ensures that homes here are highly coveted. The island’s continuous development and enhancement of its facilities further add to the investment potential​.
The real estate market in the British Virgin Islands has shown consistent growth, driven by the area’s natural beauty, stable economy, and favorable tax environment. Properties on Moskito Island, with their unique combination of luxury and exclusivity, are particularly attractive to high-net-worth individuals looking for a secure investment and a private retreat.
Conclusion
The Aerie on Moskito Island represents the epitome of luxury Caribbean living. Its blend of sophisticated design, luxurious amenities, and breathtaking natural beauty makes it one of the most desirable properties in the British Virgin Islands. Whether as a private retreat or an investment opportunity, The Aerie offers an unparalleled living experience that combines tranquility, luxury, and exclusivity​.
For more information about The Aerie, prospective buyers can contact the managing broker or visit the property’s listing on various real estate platforms. This stunning estate, with its combination of natural beauty and architectural brilliance, promises to be a dream home for those seeking the ultimate in Caribbean luxury.
The Aerie on Moskito Island stands as a beacon of what luxurious living should be—elegant, private, and harmoniously integrated with nature. It is not just a home; it is an experience, a lifestyle, and a wise investment in one of the world’s most beautiful locations.
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