Modern Design is Ruining the Tropics: Reclaiming the Soul of Caribbean Architecture – Ep 121 with Peter Sandiford
This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski heads to the tropics for a vibrant conversation with architect Peter Sandiford of Habitat Designs in Barbados. From a young age, Peter knew he was destined to design spaces—and today, he's doing just that, blending tropical vernacular traditions with modern functionality.
In this episode, Peter shares how Caribbean architecture prioritizes airflow, light, and outdoor living, while also contending with climate change and hurricane resilience. He dives into the tensions between modernist trends and the rich, textured legacy of Barbadian design, why so many homes are “missing the mark,” and how better building choices can make all the difference for comfort and health.
You’ll also hear about Peter’s award-winning work revitalizing historic structures and his philosophy of architecture as energy in motion. If you're passionate about design with soul, you won’t want to miss this one.
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More About Peter Sandiford
Peter Sandiford was born in Barbados and was educated at the Christ Church Foundation School and the Barbados Community College where he received his Associate Degree in Science. He continued his studies at St. Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, where he received his Diploma in Engineering. He further went on to the Technical University of Nova Scotia (now known as Dalhousie University) where he gained his Bachelor of Environmental Designs Studies degree and his Master of Architecture degree. He joined the practice of architect Ian Morrison in 1997 prior to forming his own architectural practice, Habitats Architectural Designs, which was incorporated in the year 2000.
Mr. Sandiford is a registered Architect in Barbados and a full member of the Barbados Institute of Architects (BIA) who has worked on numerous projects on the island and in the region including high-end residential homes, luxury villas, commercial buildings and hotels. His personal approach to design blends the principals of the eastern philosophy of Feng Shui, the architectural vernacular of the Caribbean and a high level of attention to detail.
In 2012 Mr. Sandiford won the Barbados National Trust award for the “Historical Restoration to a pre WWII Residence”. This is where his affection for historic restoration was conceived. As a result of this new drive for heritage preservation, Mr. Sandiford gladly took on another mid 19th Century restoration project, this time along the famous Hastings Main Road, which was completed in 2014. This building won the 5 Star Award at the International Property Awards, in 2015, for best “Commercial Renovation/Redevelopment” in the Americas.
When asked about the key to his success after 15 years Mr. Sandiford responds by saying “I hope to be able to continue providing my clients a professional service with a personal touch which results in project that is of a high quality.”
CONTACT:
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https://www.habitatsdesigns.com/
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