The Point at Sapodilla Bay
By Kathy Borsuk
Artwork by Jeff Lee

It isn’t every condominium project where the developer plans to live in one of the suites. But for Phil Usprech and his wife Bonnie,
The Point at Sapodilla Bay will fulfill their dreams of paradise . . .
as they believe it will do for an elite group of owners.

The Point is the first (and only) condominium development in the strictly residential Sapodilla Bay/Chalk Sound area on the southwest side of Providenciales. It is situated on a prized two acre site of elevated land overlooking the ocean and bay itself. Sunset views are matched only by the peace and tranquility that owners will enjoy in this quiet enclave, far from the Grace Bay resort atmosphere, yet only 10 minutes drive from the international airport.

From The Point’s grounds, owners have direct access to the calm, shallow waters of Sapodilla Bay and the white sand beach that gently traces its curves, an ideal location for swimming and sun bathing. A private dock makes it easy to access the surrounding seas and nearby cays for fishing, diving and exploring. Just across the road lies Chalk Sound National Park, an inland waterway distinguished by its otherworldly blue coloring and the hundreds of tiny islets sprinkled across its surface. Atop nearby Sapodilla Hill are historic carvings thought to be made by shipwrecked sailors centuries ago.

The Usprechs were drawn by the area’s natural beauty from their first trip to the Islands in 1994. Phil explains, “We were here to scuba dive and the boat left from Sapodilla Bay for a trip to West Caicos. Later on, we walked around the property of the former Mariner Hotel and became very interested in the area. It took some time, but we were eventually able to structure a deal for the land on which the former Aquatic Center had been located. Everything just clicked and my wife said, ‘This is it . . . this is where we’re going to retire.'”

Phil expects that other people who, like himself, truly love the island lifestyle, will be drawn to a niche project like The Point. He says, “It is designed for mature individuals who want the finest accommodation and are looking for an island home, not a hotel room.”

The Point comprises only 18 suites on multi-levels, all two bedroom units ranging in size from 1,481 sq. ft. to 2,166 sq. ft. Designing the development to fit the oddly shaped site was a challenge for local architect Jeff Lee, of OBM International. He says, “The Point was as unusual a site as I have ever worked on. But the end result translated into what a condominium project is always striving for–uniqueness. Every unit is completely different from the next, and offers a one-of-a-kind view spanning the panorama from the eastern end of Chalk Sound to south over the Caicos Banks.” Phil adds, “We’re definitely not a ‘cookie cutter’ development.”

Suites are designed with large balconies adjacent to living rooms and master bedrooms, enhancing these most-used areas with access to ocean outlooks and outdoor living space. Bedrooms include ensuite baths and cathedral ceilings grace the top floor units. But the key quality is uniqueness. Jeff Lee explains, “The Point suites are characterized by out-of-the-ordinary spaces . . . angled walls, curved balconies . . . that make up a number of fun, one-of-a-kind living areas. We tried to have something original in each unit, be it an octagonal foyer, unexpected alcove, extra-large pantry or additional countertop in the kitchen. Potential owners should take the time to look over each suite carefully, to find that special combination that’s just right for them.”

Phil credits his wife Bonnie with an “eye for detail” when it came to the top-end finishes, including granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, marble floor tiles and such extras as separate wine refrigerators and glass-enclosed showers. OBM, in conjunction with local interior designer Donna Gatti, is designing the interiors and furniture packages, which Jeff says, will be a creative extension of The Point’s unique architecture.

Because he plans to live on-site, Phil planned property amenities to include everything he would look for in a Caribbean oasis. Besides the boat slips, owners have for their exclusive use an infinity edge swimming pool, exercise room, cabana-type dining area for private parties and a poolside food and beverage facility. Other features take advantage of the craggy ironshore seascape, including special swimming areas, benches around the sinkholes through which the tide ebbs and flows and a secluded gazebo on the promontory for sunset viewings.

Additional pluses include elevator access to suites, underground parking and full security. An on-site manager will cater to owners’ needs, with such services as pre-stocking suites with groceries prior to their arrival. Barbara Underwood, a talented local landscaper, promises lush tropical foliage throughout the site.

As the driving force and financier behind The Point, Phil Usprech brings to the Islands an extensive background of land development in the Golden Horseshoe area of Ontario, Canada. Over the last 30 years, as he’s specialized in turning raw land into turn-key residential properties, he says he’s learned an important lesson. “What matters is the team,” he comments. “Although the developer may have the concept in mind, you need a good team that shares the same vision to guarantee success.” As a result, his first step was to assemble a group of local professionals to assist in The Point’s development.

Besides OBM International, who also serve as project managers, the team includes Dempsey & Company, the longest established legal practice in the Turks & Caicos, as the development lawyers. Esteemed local building contractors Johnston International will handle construction, bringing to the table over 20 years of experience on major projects in the Turks & Caicos. Groundbreaking is set for Fall, 2002, with the entire project to be completed in one stage.

The Islands’ pioneer in the sales and marketing of real estate, Prestigious Properties Ltd., is directing sales, marketing and management set-up. They are represented by Managing Director Philip Misick and Sales Agent Peter Crawford Smith, who note that The Point is a wise investment choice, especially in the soon-to-end pre-construction stage. Philip says, “The Point is designed as an upmarket project with quality furnishings.”

Phil Usprech wants people to talk about how The Point enhances the natural beauty of the area. He says, “For the people who live at The Point, I want home to be where Paradise begins.”