When Ladesa and Ian Williams began their search for the perfect investment property, Jolly Harbour checked all the boxes. With two young children, maximizing space was a top priority. Already homeowners in Antigua, the couple embarked on a bold renovation of Villa 413C, turning a rundown property into their dream weekend retreat.
We caught up with the Williams family to hear about their journey of transformation, the challenges they faced, and the incredible results of their efforts.
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Why Jolly Harbour?
Ladesa: We love the beach and wanted to be close to the water. Jolly Harbour has two beaches, great restaurants like Al Porto and Curry House, sports facilities, a supermarket, and hiking trails. It’s the perfect place for us to escape on weekends. Our daughter loves swimming at North Beach, which is often completely quiet, and the kids enjoy riding their bikes around the community.
Ian: The pool is a big draw for us too. Our son is a competitive swimmer, so he uses it a lot. Jolly Harbour offers everything we need for family life and relaxation.
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Tackling the Renovation
Ladesa: When we purchased the villa, it was in dire condition. Initially, we planned to keep the floors, but after speaking with the contractor, we decided to go all in and do a full refurbishment. We wanted a modern, beachy vibe with an open concept that felt spacious and practical for kids.
We converted the garage into a multi-functional space that includes a mudroom, pantry, beverage station, and laundry area. To maximize square footage, we also added a full deck, which has given us more usable outdoor space.
Ian: Renovations always come with challenges. One of our first issues was when the contractor ordered the wrong size glass door—it wasn’t tall enough. But overall, the project went smoothly.
Ladesa: We originally hoped to finish everything in three months, but that turned out to be ambitious. It ended up taking five months, mainly due to delays in getting approval to install the dock.
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Favourite Features
Ladesa: I love the kitchen and laundry area. It took a lot of thought to design something that worked for our family. With kids, you need space and storage, and I wanted everything to have its place. From lunchboxes to shoes, we now have dedicated spaces to keep everything tidy.
Ian: For me, it’s the deck and patio space—it’s perfect for relaxing and entertaining. And, of course, the gorgeous TV wall I designed.
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The Numbers
The Williams purchased the villa at the end of 2022 for US$250,000 and invested an additional US$125,000 in renovations, appliances, and furnishings.
“We were able to do a full gut renovation and end up with a property we love, are proud of, and truly enjoy,” Ladesa says.
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A Stylish Weekend Escape
From a rundown villa to a stunning family retreat, Villa 413C is a testament to the Williams’ vision and determination. With its beachy-modern aesthetic and thoughtful design, this property is more than just a home—it’s a haven for cherished family memories.
For more inspiring renovation stories and insights into Jolly Harbour living, stay tuned to Luxury Locations Magazine!
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