RL: Tell us about your journey to Structural Engineering.

JL: I always knew I wanted to design buildings, and after completing a dual Master’s in Structural Engineering and Architecture, I settled on structural engineering as a career.  I joined a fantastic graduate training at Arup in London, where I had the opportunity to help design some iconic buildings, including the National Assembly for Wales, London Olympic Aquatic Centre, and St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel.
After ten years in London, I moved to Australia to expand my professional experience and enjoy the beach life. This exposed me to extreme high wind design, earthquake design and a much faster approach to getting projects onto the site.
I later returned to London, where I led and delivered various projects, from ultra-high-end residential developments to $100M+ mixed-use projects. Still, when the chance to live and work in Grand Cayman came about in 2021, my family and I grabbed it.

RL: Can you tell us about your experience designing and building luxury properties in the Cayman Islands?

JL: Since moving to Cayman, I’ve enjoyed working on a diverse range of luxury projects. Every project presents unique challenges and opportunities, from oceanfront villas to high-rise condominiums. As a structural engineer, my primary responsibility is to ensure the building’s structural integrity and safety while also working closely with the architect to create a design that is both functional and looks fantastic.

RL: How do structural engineers contribute to the design and construction of projects?

JL: Structural engineers are responsible for ensuring that buildings are safe, structurally sound, and meet all relevant building codes and regulations. They collaborate with architects and builders to ensure the building’s design is feasible and able to withstand the unique environmental conditions in Grand Cayman – hurricane-force winds, earthquakes, saltwater exposure, flooding, and the potential for erosion, among other requirements.

RL: How do you ensure luxury properties can withstand extreme weather conditions?

JL: We follow strict building codes and regulations, including using materials that can withstand high wind speeds, earthquakes, and heavy rain. Often the elements you can’t see offer the most protection; this may include the foundation type selection or hurricane strapping needed from roof to ground. We also consider the property’s location and the potential for storm surges and flooding. How we mitigate these risks varies on each project, but it is always a top priority.

RL: What do you enjoy most about working in Cayman?

JL: Working with clients who have a vision for creating truly unique and luxurious living spaces. Luxury properties in Cayman are often designed to take full advantage of the island’s stunning natural beauty, incorporating features like infinity pools, outdoor living areas, and panoramic ocean views.
Working with local materials and artisans to create a building that is genuinely a part of the Cayman Islands’ culture and heritage has been great too. Incorporating traditional Caribbean architecture and design elements, such as stone walls and colourful façades, give projects a unique sense of place.

RL: How do you balance your designs’ luxury, functionality, and safety needs?

JL: Balancing these three factors can be a challenge, but it’s our role as engineers to bring creative solutions to the table. Safety is always a top priority, and we work side by side with the architects to ensure that the building design meets all necessary safety requirements.
Concerning functionality, we align with the client to understand their vision and preferences. Luxury can mean different things to different people, so it’s essential to understand the client’s needs and desires clearly. As engineers, we are always cognizant of the impact structural elements will have on factors like layout, accessibility, and aesthetics. We love the opportunity to get creative and bring architects' and their clients' visions to life.

RL: What design trends do you see in luxury property construction in the Cayman Islands?

JL: One is the use of sustainable materials and technologies. Many property owners want to reduce their carbon footprint and opt to install solar panels or rainwater harvesting systems. Another trend is the use of smart home technology, which allows owners to control almost every operational aspect of their property remotely.

RL: What advice would you give someone looking to invest in luxury real estate?

JL: It’s important to work with a team of experienced professionals in designing and constructing luxury properties locally. This includes architects, builders, and engineers who understand the unique challenges of building in this environment. It’s also crucial to understand the importance of the design and coordination stage, along with obtaining the necessary approvals. Following the proper process at the start makes for a far smoother time on-site during construction, saving time and money in the long run. Building a luxury property takes careful planning to ensure it is built to the highest standards.