St. Barts Villas by

Retro elements infuse the cheerful, fresh looks of Villa Nita: sleek 1960s lines, curving chairs inspired by the same era, ‘80s-style art decor and a big, bright red Smeg fridge-freezer. That’s found beside the stylish black-counter kitchen, whose many mod-cons include a wine-storage unit. Elsewhere, Nita’s open layout integrates a breakfast bar, an indoor dining area and, oh yes, a home cinema room.

Just outside, through two ‘hideaway’ glass doors, is a long deck and infinity-edge pool. Below that, over some trees and red-roofed houses, stretches away a beach and the bright blue ocean. There’s a barbecue and second dining table out here, should al fresco meals be in order, plus outdoor sofas for sun-soaking.

Villa Nita has two floors, splitting its bedrooms between them. Two are on the ground floor, either side of that main living area to ensure perfect privacy, boasting queen-size beds, while a third is downstairs with a king-size unit. All are ensuite, with bathtubs, and all have their own terrace and sea vistas. The ambience is always soothingly chic, and mainly pastel-hued.

Lorient, in the middle of V-shaped St Barts’ north coast, makes an ideal location for exploration. As well as that beach, you’re close to grocery stores, bakeries, the airport and capital Gustavia’s fine restaurants. As such, this escapist villa works for families, friends or even business travellers seeking a slumberous base.