Establishing Roots
2012
Shimon Finkelstein travels with a group of friends to an all-inclusive resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
2014
A family vacation leads to finding Jake’s at Treasure Beach. Shimon is drawn to this spot “one of nature’s jewels” in Southern Jamaica. It possesses natural beauty and a rich history. Sally Henzell the wife of Perry Henzell, the co-writer and director of “The Harder they Come”, Jamaica’s first motion picture staring Jimmy Cliff, developed the area into what is now 30 cottages, villas and suites.
Journey
May 2015
Shimon and his wife, Ellie, visit the original house, located on 2 acres of land. Even though it’s not on the market, they decide to put an offer to purchase it.
Inspired by the suppliers who he collaborates with in the Far East, Shimon envisions the villa as an amalgamation of a home and an Artemano showroom.
Enlisting the assistance of architect Jeremy Millingen from Kingston, Shimon fulfills his vision.
Extension
The original villa was very confusing architecturally. Its design didn’t take advantage of the surrounding natural beauty. Today what remains is the original shell. All else has been rebuilt with nature at the focus.
To capture the daily sunsets, the one hundred and eighty degree span of the ocean and mountain vistas that encapsulate the home, Ellie comes up with a solution: the creation of a flat roof top terrace.
Choosing the right furniture and décor for the villa is dictated through physical feelings. Pieces speak to Shimon from the instant he lays eyes on them. He brings elements and ambiances from the Far East to the Caribbean. This is how he travels through history and connects the East to the West.
Outcome
Today - 2016
With Vila Elia completed, Shimon cherishes the time he spends there. It allows him to just be. In the midst of nature, he spends his days photographing each and every unique aspect of the natural world around him.
This Artemano retreat is a place that offers a real, simple connection to nature, where stress-levels subside, where clarity and freedom of expression are at their full potential.
A true sanctuary, Villa Elia is special thanks to the people that care and run it. Chut the young caretaker is enthusiastic, artistic man who is always exploring his creativity. His curiosity pushes him to go beyond the call of duty. Alicia the dedicated housekeeper and assistant cook pays attention to every detail overseeing the management of the Villa. And Betty, the cook creates new, healthy, mouth-watering meals with local ingredients, some of which come straight from the Villa’s herb garden.
We invite you to enjoy the wonders at Villa Elia by simply visiting https://www.vrbo.com/891206