Visionary Jamaican-born architect Gordon Gill, a founding partner of the internationally renowned Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, has unveiled plans for Paradise Park, a groundbreaking eco-resort poised to become the Caribbean’s most ecologically advanced hospitality development.

According to a release, nestled on 420 acres near Smithfield and Bluefields Bay in Westmoreland, Jamaica, Paradise Park will feature a low-density design that includes a boutique hotel, wellness facilities, villas, and immersive cultural spaces. Set apart from the traditional all-inclusive model, the development is designed to harmonise with the natural landscape, providing an authentic and environmentally responsible alternative in the regional tourism market.

“Paradise Park is not about excess; it’s about balance,” said Gill, whose global portfolio includes projects in Dubai, China, and New York’s Central Park. “We’re building on less than five per cent of the land. The rest is being preserved, restored, or thoughtfully programmed to respect the ecosystem.”

Gill, who was born in Jamaica and frequently returns to the island, emphasised that the project is an opportunity to merge architectural innovation with sustainability at the highest level.

Designed to meet advanced environmental performance standards, the resort will feature:

• Renewable energy systems, including a dedicated solar farm
• State-of-the-art water recycling and wastewater treatment
• Coastal and terrestrial biodiversity preservation
• Use of local materials and labour wherever possible

Paradise Park will also include a conservation nursery for native species and infrastructure designed with climate resilience and ecological sensitivity at its core.

What sets Paradise Park apart is not just its design but its commitment to community engagement. The resort will prioritise local employment and supply chains, with an estimated 900 jobs during construction and more than 1,200 long-term positions in hospitality, operations, agriculture, and the creative industries. These numbers are expected to increase as the project evolves and additional components are introduced.

Jamaica’s new South Coast Highway will seamlessly connect Paradise Park to the island’s expanding road network, which enhances access to the western end of the country.

“This project is about legacy. It’s about raising the bar, not just for how we build, but for how we build together. From the very beginning, we’ve designed Paradise Park to benefit both the environment and the people who call this part of Jamaica home,” Gill said. 

JDV is a real estate development and investment company dedicated to preserving Jamaica’s rich heritage. By revitalising historically significant lands and transforming them into sustainable luxury destinations. JDV fosters local economic growth and cultivates diverse, eco-conscious tourism.

The team behind JDV is a collective of experienced professionals, many of whom have deep roots in Jamaica or a strong connection to its culture. United by their passion for the island, they are committed to building a future that honours Jamaica’s unique character while creating lasting opportunities for its people.