The owner asked for something "elegant" and "roofy". He requested a building with the detailing and understatement of a large Mercedes sedan. Years later he says "I see parts of my building around town. It is often imitated. No one has yet equaled what you have done for me." Responding to our clients and the climatic challenges of the tropics with excellent design is a strength at DePape Associates.

Tropical mix use

Dennis DePape, the principal of DePape Associates has practiced architecture in Belize, located South of Mexico on the Caribbean side. He designed this mixed use building consisting of offices and rental apartments for a businessman who wanted "elegance" and "something roofy". Deeply recessed windows and deep roof overhangs are typical architectural responses to intense tropical sun. White stucco reflects the sun. Because of its mass, stucco absorbs cooler night temperatures keeping the building cooler during the day.

Creating identity

The glass block tower houses two helical stairs serving the businesses and rental apartments on upper floors. The tower also organizes the building and creates a recognizable feature along the street. The bedroom at the top of the tower has a deck with a spectacular sea view. The stair tower shades the large bedroom deck and creates a dramatic landmark on the narrow street. The concrete tile emulates classic Spanish red tile while iron railings allow air to circulate across shaded surfaces.

Create shade

For centuries architects in tropical climates have placed a layer of shaded walkways between the sun and interior rooms. The South side of the building consists of public covered walkways or private decks that buffer the interior rooms and provide shaded breezy, outdoor spaces.

Handsome entry

Concrete is a utilitarian building material in the Caribbean. For special applications a variety of regional hardwoods are prized and used. A rich red Belizean Mahogany frames this handsome entry. Glass block relites provide security and privacy yet allow ample light into the foyer.

Interior details

The richness of wood contributes to the sense of luxury experienced on the interior helical stair leading to the offices and apartments. The concrete is formed into a shape that makes it look lightweight and flexible.

An executive office: Tropical style

Executive offices enjoy high ceilings and indirect lighting for a relaxing ambiance. Finishes include a blend of Naragusta hardwood ceilings; Belizean Mahogany trim and handsomely carved mahogany doors.

Beauty in wood

The warmth, fine detailing and finish of teak treads and railings heighten the fascination of a circular decent from the apartments. Due to its hardness teak will outlast other woods and prove its economy to the owner through reduced maintenance and longevity.

Classic space

Each apartment enjoys double height living room volumes as seen in this construction photo. The Naragusta wood in the ceilings remains exposed to view. The high windows reveal the figure and color of the wood as well as brightening the room even on a cloudy day.

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