Noble House

OVERVIEW

Noble House is a unique architectural gem by the sea. Its design is a series of airy pavilions with peaked roofs, its living spaces separated by water gardens and bridges. Indoor spaces flow into the outdoors with Oriental grace. Rooms are walled by tall mahogany French doors that open to private porches. Ceiling fans are throughout.

The 600-square-foot main pavilion consists of the Great Room with 56 glass doors and a massive wrap-around veranda on floors of gleaming white Jamaican marble. Outside the Great Room, a Japanese footbridge arches over a reflecting pool to the formal dining room. Like the Great Room, the dining room has wraparound glass doors that open to the mesmerizing panorama of gardens and ocean views. Adjacent are a full bar and powder room.

Throughout the villa is a collection of art and antiques gathered by Broadway Billy Rose and later acquired by the original homeowner, the late New York tycoon Sol Atlas ... including a drop-leaf tavern table circa 1700, a hand-carved livery cupboard circa 1640, carvings from Indian temple chariots and a 19th Century grandfather clock.

The sprawling grounds are like both a park and a playing field. The gardens include a wild orchid tree, an herb garden, two mango trees, one lime tree, and a beautiful breadfruit tree. The wide lawns are home to croquet, badminton, and volleyball.

100 yards offshore is Holden's Reef, a continuation of the barrier reef complex that fronts much of Jamaica's north coast. Easily reachable by kayak, this live reef is home to a myriad of tropical fish and corals. At low tide, portions protrude above the water so you can step from your kayak to snorkel in shallow water. On the ocean side, deeper waters beckon the more adventurous or scuba equipped. Two paddle boards are also available for additional water sports options.