August 2011 Saint-Barthélemy — Xavier David is pleased to report that recently completed private villas have been featured on the cover of Architectural Digest.  This project is an excellent example of Xavier David’s ability to collaborate with world class designers such as Gwathmey Siegal Associates.  Here is an excerpt:

"To maintain an air of simplicity, Gwathmey kept the number of building materials to a minimum, relying on white-stuccoed concrete for exterior walls and polished concrete for accents. A dark-gray volcanic stone excavated from the site was used for retaining walls and some doorways, and a light-gray Ataija Azul limestone from Portugal paves the outdoor terraces as well as living areas and bathrooms (several tables were also carved from the substance). Sucupira, a Brazilian hardwood, was used for bedroom flooring and for most millwork and cabinetry. The structures are sparely furnished with custom-made seating upholstered in white canvas and feature almost no art on the walls; they are designed to capitalize on the sweeping views afforded by large picture windows."

In addition to describing the architecture, the magazine article also tells the touching story of a young architect and his mentor. You can read the full article and view a slideshow here.