CARLISLE BAY ANTIGUA ANNOUNCES FIRST PHASE OF A MULTIMILLION DOLLAR RENOVATION PROJECT

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Antigua’s premier resort, Carlisle Bay, has launched a multimillion-dollar renovation project, with all phases expected to be completed by November 2027.

A five-star resort and proud member of The Leading Hotels of the World, Carlisle Bay will unveil the first phase of its transformation this year. The full evolution – encompassing guest suites, public areas, dining venues, and enhancements to its signature spa – will unfold over the next three years, aligned with the resort’s annual seasonal closure periods.

Leading this project is acclaimed London-based designer Miminat Shodeinde of Miminat Designs. Honouring Antigua’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, the team merged the resort’s essence with a refreshed, modern design that embraces its central concept of laid-back luxury. Shodeinde’s design style centres itself around respecting context and the diversity of influences and inspiration. This has informed her vision of Caribbean excellence to utilise bespoke furniture, locally sourced artwork, and a carefully curated palette of colour and tactile materials that reflect the island’s stunning beaches, calm waters, and lush, untouched rainforests.

Carlisle Bay, Antiqua. Above and top: Ocean suite. All images credit Felix Speller

Ocean suite

Ocean suite

Each area of the resort is designed with a unique narrative that contributes to a cohesive ambiance throughout while staying true to the resort’s authentic spirit. The first phase of the renovation will focus on 55% of the resort’s 87 spacious suites, with a full refurbishment of the Ocean, Bay, and Garden Suites—all located directly on the bay. These suites will undergo renovations during the resort’s annual closure period and will be ready to welcome guests when the resort reopens in October 2025. Designed to capture the golden warmth of the Caribbean sun paired with timeless elegance, the Garden, Ocean, and Bay Suites will reflect a new chapter for the resort.

Garden suite

“I loved learning about the region’s traditions and heritage, which became central to our design concept,” says Shodeinde. “We aimed to balance modernity with respect for local customs, preserving traditional pitched roofs and verandas while incorporating hand-carved furniture, intricate textiles, and locally sourced artwork. Collaborating with artisans allowed us to create unique pieces that reflect Antigua’s vibrant creative scene. It was rewarding to connect with the community and produce distinctive art for each suite. Alongside the island’s beauty, the incredible people and staff truly bring the destination to life.”

Bay suite

Bay suite

The next phase is set to refurbish the Beach Balcony Suites, Beach Terrace Suites and Carlisle Suites which will complete the room categories portion of the overall project, due to take place during closure period 2026. From there, Carlisle Bay’s multiple dining venues and CARA Organic Spa will undergo their own reimagining and are estimated to be completed over the next two years.

Cara Doherty, part of the ownership group for Carlisle Bay stated, “We are excited to usher in the next chapter for Carlisle Bay, where each space will reflect our deep commitment to offering an authentic island experience, with a seamless blend of elegance and comfort. The phased renovation allows us to remain true to our vision whilst providing a refreshed experience for all our guests.”

Additional details about the renovation and future phases will be shared in due course.

For more information visit www.carlisle-bay.com

About Carlisle Bay
Situated on the idyllic southern coast of Antigua, Carlisle Bay boasts breath-taking turquoise waters, a powdery white sand beach, a lagoon, and lush tropical gardens. A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, Carlisle Bay is a 5-star property with a strong sense of place, incorporating its natural surroundings to embody laidback luxury. There are endless activities to choose from, including a wide range of water sports, the option to book private charters on the hotel’s luxury FJORD36 motor yacht, as well as tennis clinics on one of the seven courts and Yoga and Pilates sessions. For those looking to completely unwind, CARA Organic Spa provides bespoke ESPA treatments, inspired by the surrounding natural beauty. Carlisle Bay prides itself on providing guests with genuine Caribbean warmth and hospitality, creating unforgettable memories.

Privately owned, Carlisle Bay has a rich history that dates to the early 18th century, this area was once a bustling hub of sugar production and trade. The resort’s name itself pays homage to the bay’s British naval history, named after the Earl of Carlisle, James Hay. The site has since been transformed from a sugar plantation into a pristine luxury resort. The property fans around the bay, where pelicans dive for fish and yachts bob in the glistening waters. Antigua itself is a Caribbean gem, known for its year-round warm weather and warm local charm as well as beautiful waters for snorkelling and sailing. The island’s famous Nelson’s Dockyard, lunch at Catherine’s Cafe and sundowners at Shirley Heights.

Commitment to charity, with all the luxury, there is also so much heart found at this family-owned resort. A passion and dedication to making a positive impact on the local community. Carlisle Bay actively engages in charitable work, supporting local initiatives that benefit education, healthcare, and conservation. Whether it’s contributing to local schools, participating in beach clean-up efforts, or supporting healthcare clinics, Carlisle Bay takes its responsibility for the community, embodying the spirit of responsible tourism.