GREEN ISLAND ARCHITECTURE

Our Story

Green Island Architecture (GIA) is a local architectural design practice operating in the pristine and breathtaking Turks and Caicos Islands. Established with a vision to make a meaningful contribution to sustainable living in a changing world, GIA is guided by the motto "Designing green architecture for life." The company's founder, Waylan Williams, affectionately known as Daylan, hails from the enchanting settlement of Bottle Creek in North Caicos. It was during the challenging period of the pandemic that Waylan's dream of creating a sustainable architectural design practice began to take shape.

GIA's core focus lies in the art of designing residential and commercial spaces with nature at its heart. The team at GIA recognizes that in today's world, how we design our homes and workspaces can have a significant impact on our environment, our well-being, and our shared future. The company operates in a region renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty, where the turquoise waters meet pristine beaches and lush tropical landscapes. This remarkable backdrop serves as the backdrop to GIA's mission: to harmonize modern living spaces with the surrounding environment, bringing about sustainable and greener architectural solutions.

One of the key driving forces behind GIA's work is the acknowledgment of climate change and its implications. In the face of a shifting climate, it is imperative that we rethink how we construct and inhabit our spaces. GIA aims to make a difference by incorporating environmentally-friendly design principles that minimize energy consumption, reduce heating and cooling costs, and promote a deeper connection between people and nature. By utilizing the unique environmental resources of the Turks and Caicos Islands, GIA endeavors to create designs that are not just beautiful but also sustainable, and cost-effective for those who inhabit them.

In a relatively short span of three years, Green Island Architecture has made significant strides in the architectural design landscape of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The company's reputation has been steadily growing, thanks to its commitment to ecological integrity and innovative design solutions. GIA's designs are not merely about constructing structures; they are about crafting lifestyles that embrace nature, sustainability, and harmony.

As Green Island Architecture continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to its founding principles of "Designing green architecture for life." The company envisions a future where architectural design is an ally to the environment and where every structure tells a story of coexistence between human comfort and the natural world. With a foundation built on values of environmental stewardship, GIA is poised to contribute to the enduring beauty and sustainability of the Turks and Caicos Islands while leaving a lasting legacy of responsible and visionary architecture.

Our Inspiration

My journey to founding Green Island Architecture (GIA) is intimately tied to my upbringing and the remarkable experiences that shaped my perspective on architecture. As a young boy, I was immersed in the world of local and traditional craftsmanship, an art form that runs deep in the cultural fabric of the Turks and Caicos Islands. This exposure introduced me to the artistry of crafting, the significance of preserving heritage, and the value of creating something beautiful and functional with one's own hands.

However, it was my mother who played a pivotal role in igniting my vision for contributing to the place I call home. She stands as a testament to the spirit of entrepreneurship in our family. She was not only the first fisherwoman in the Turks and Caicos Islands but also ventured into the realm of hospitality by owning a bar and restaurant at one point in her life. Her determination and resilience in carving her own path left an indelible mark on me. I learned from her the power of pursuing one's dreams, even in unconventional roles.

Yet, it was the moments spent with my mother that truly instilled in me the essence of what real architecture is. When she took me out fishing, we ventured to some of the most exotic and untouched areas of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Places like Highas Cay, Conch Cay, Spanish Point, and many others exposed me to the breathtaking topography of our region. I marveled at the unspoiled beauty of these landscapes, and I understood that architecture should not merely coexist with nature, but it should enhance and preserve it.

The synergy of these experiences led to the birth of Green Island Architecture. I was inspired to create a practice that would bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship, the entrepreneurial spirit of my family, and the pristine natural beauty of our islands. GIA's mission is to design spaces that resonate with the heart of our environment, contribute to the well-being of our community, and reflect the values I hold dear—sustainability, harmony, and a deep appreciation for our unique corner of the world. My inspiration is not just to build structures but to build legacies, to tell stories that celebrate our rich heritage and our commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.

Our Future

My vision for the future of Green Island Architecture (GIA) extends beyond just designing and constructing beautiful buildings in the Turks and Caicos Islands. While that is a significant part of our mission, I also aspire for GIA to be at the forefront of local practices, competing with firms that are not local. I believe that our deep-rooted connection to this region and our understanding of its unique cultural and environmental dynamics can set us apart on a broader scale.

GIA's home base is on the islands of North Caicos, a place where I have experienced the transformative power of our environment and the richness of our culture. It is my fervent aspiration to extend opportunities to the next generation of architects from our community. One of my future plans is to establish a program that recruits talented young architects-in-the-making, particularly those attending the Raymond Gardiner High School. By offering mentorship and hands-on experience within GIA, these budding architects can obtain the skills, knowledge, and guidance that will empower them in their journey towards a successful career in architecture.

This endeavour is close to my heart because it seeks to provide opportunities that I did not have when I was starting my career. I had to travel to foreign lands to acquire knowledge and experience, which, while valuable, made me realise the immense potential right here in our islands. My intention is to bring this potential to the forefront, nurturing local talent and enriching the architectural landscape not just in the Turks and Caicos Islands but on a global stage.

In the years to come, I see Green Island Architecture as a hub of creativity, innovation, and sustainability. We aim to continue crafting designs that resonate with our environment and culture, while also being at the vanguard of local architectural practices. By investing in the future architects of our community, we aim to leave a lasting legacy of opportunity, growth, and excellence. The journey ahead is one of shared dreams and collective progress, and I am excited to see it unfold.

“FOR EVERY FISHERMAN CHASING THE SUN, CAN BECOME AN ARCHITECT WHEN THE DAY’S WORK IS DONE”