Tucked away in the lush landscapes of Portland Parish, Jamaica, Pompey is now home to a recording studio and estate that blends creativity and luxury, all set amidst the beauty of nature. Spanning 62 acres, this expansive estate blends harmoniously with its natural surroundings. The design takes cues from Jamaica’s rich history, biodiversity and vibrant culture, making it an ideal sanctuary for artists, musicians, teams and individuals seeking solace from the everyday hustle.

The architectural vision for the retreat was realised by New York-based Freecell Architecture working closely with designer Gia Wolff and musician Diplo. This partnership has resulted in a space that respects and enhances the natural beauty of its surroundings. The estate’s design features a brutalist architecture aesthetic characterised by clean lines and raw materials, allowing the property to stand out against the vivid backdrop of tropical foliage. The interplay between human ingenuity and the environment creates an immersive experience where guests can appreciate the native trees and natural stone in a fresh light.

Jamaica, particularly Portland, is a haven of natural beauty. Known for its mist-shrouded blue mountains, secluded lagoons, waterfalls and dense jungle, the northeastern corner of the island is home to an array of endemic species. Beyond all of this, the place has a deeper significance. This spirit of freedom and rebellion runs through the veins of the parish, reflected in its music, food and even the quirky nicknames that locals adopt.

The interior design of Pompey was taken on by Sara Nataf, Diplo’s creative director and his assistant Katelyn Hinden, who have curated minimalist yet inviting spaces that strike the perfect balance between social connections and personal introspection. The wellness retreat includes one primary suite and three guest suites, providing ample room for larger groups while also offering private retreats. A unique blend of primitive furniture and luxurious textiles enriches the rawness of the space, creating an atmosphere that invites relaxation and creativity.

One of the most captivating aspects of the property is its landscape design, meticulously crafted to reflect the Caribbean island’s native ecology. Collaborating with local experts from Geoponika, known for their expertise in native plant species and environmental conservation, the estate incorporates a diverse array of flora sourced from the surrounding area. Native orchids, ferns, bromeliads and palms adorn the property alongside 30 thousand pounds of San San’s native honeycomb limestone. This careful attention to ecological detail ensures that Pompey feels like an extension of its natural environment.

The site also boasts multiple organic farms where guests can indulge in the fresh produce of bananas, guavas, coconuts, avocados, jackfruits, pineapples and breadfruits. Additionally, it is home to various animals including horses, goats, donkeys, exotic birds and even 19 bee hives. Guests are encouraged to explore these vibrant ecosystems as part of their experience.

At the heart of Pompey lies a state-of-the-art studio building spanning 2,000 square feet. Designed for musicians and creatives alike, this facility includes a Live Room and Control Room optimised for sound quality. More than just a recording studio, it is a place where the boundaries of nature and culture blur, allowing artists to tap into a more primal form of inspiration for their music. The studio’s architecture is tailored to inspire creativity while providing all the necessary amenities for artistic expression. As Diplo describes it, the project is a place where creatives can “reinsert themselves into the food chain” finding a renewed sense of purpose in the rhythms of the natural world.

Pompey is designed keeping in mind every need a guest might have. Its extensive range of amenities includes a fully equipped gym featuring high-end fitness equipment, a rock-climbing wall, private horse trails for horseback riding and opportunities for water sports or mountain biking in the surrounding wilderness. It also features wellness amenities including a private cold plunge pool and sauna and a tranquil yoga pagoda designed to provide a serene space for practice and meditation. This is complemented by 24-hour concierge services, security personnel on-site and an in-house chef who prepares meals with ingredients sourced directly from the estate’s gardens.

Beyond its luxurious accommodations and stunning natural landscapes, Pompey serves as a cultural hub showcasing contemporary art from around the globe. The estate features works by renowned artists such as Sofia Londoño, Pedro Reyes, Lucas Muñoz, Veronica Ryan, Garnett Puett and Vince Skelly. Each piece has been thoughtfully selected to enhance the aesthetic experience throughout the grounds. This eclectic collection invites guests to engage with global artistic expressions and sensibilities.

Pompey creates an environment where nature and culture come together to inspire legendary music and art. With its foundations deeply rooted in the rich history and vibrant life of Jamaica, this concrete architecture project is destined to be a place of inspiration for years to come.

Project Details

Name: POMPEY RECORDING STUDIO & ESTATE
Location: Portland Parish, Jamaica
Typology:
Client: Diplo
Architect: FREECELL Architecture in collaboration with Gia Wolff
Design Team: N.A.
Collaborators: Sara Nataf and Katelyn Hinden
Area: N.A.
Year of Completion: 2024