Ritz Construction, Aruba

Ritz Carlton is constructing a new hotel in Aruba. It is located just north of the Marriott complex. At the time of this writing, the main road leading to Malmok has been diverted around the site, leaving the bridge to Bakval impassable as you can see in this first photo.

The building site itself shows signs of foundation work, which is evident in this next photo. (The Marriott hotel can be seen in the right corner.)

And here is another view from the other direction.

The reinforcing rods sticking up from the ground will probably tie the building into the pilings on which the structure will stand. It was difficult to get a good angle for photographing the site because there is an eight foot fence around it. Probably wise to keep gawkers like me away. At any rate, there is the update on the Ritz construction.

Bon dia.

Published in: on August 29, 2010 at 11:48 am  Leave a Comment  
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Medieval Methods, Construction

This photo essay takes a look at some medieval construction methods that I noted in Spain. These methods are still used in various places, at least in terms of post and beam methodology. For example, take a look at the first photo here.

You see the timbers running horizontally and vertically, forming a framework which is then filled in with brick and/or plaster. I would guess that initially it was more like woven areas of lighter wood plastered inside and out. The brick is much heavier, although so long as it starts from the bottom up, can be as solid as anything else, as seen in the next photo of a building on the corner.

Actually, what remains of the building. In this part of town, people were busy restoring these buildings. I suspect some might not make it as they looked rather unsturdy. One fellow went the distance as you can see here.

Turned out a rather nice place to stay, didn’t he?
There’s more to sightseeing than museums and monuments. Things like those shown above are a sort of living history. The marks on those timbers were left by craftsmen hundreds of years ago. Best of all you can get up close to gain a better understanding of how things were and might be again. Furthermore, if you get there at the right time, you might be able to speak with people who still know how to do things that way. First hand knowledge is always the most reliable. Fascinating, too.

Published in: on June 19, 2010 at 11:21 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Future Pool with a View

There’s a new home being built in San Fuego, Aruba. The home will feature a large swimming pool with a nice view out over the island. Here’s a photo of the current status of construction.

poolfuegSan Fuego is centrally located on the island. It’s also an elevated area. From the second story of homes here, you can see the Caribbean sea to the west. To the east, there is the Arikok National Park. The builder tells me there will be a covered pavilion at the end of the pool to offer some shade. In the foreground is the porch that surrounds the house.

There are a number of pleasant areas to build a new home or buy an existing one here in Aruba. If you’re looking for a vacation home or another place to hang your hat, think about one here.

Bon dia.

Published in: on September 16, 2009 at 3:23 pm  Leave a Comment  
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San Fuego Residence, Aruba

San Fuego Residence in Aruba is a small development located near the center of the island. It is also at one of the highest points on the island. The houses being built here have the advantage of fronting a brand new concrete road as well. Lot sizes range from 1,000 square meters to over 3,000 square meters (about 1/4 to nearly a full acre.) I made this short video to show three houses under construction. You’ll see the foundation of one, roof details of another, and a complete roof on the final one. People ask me about home construction here in Aruba and I hope this video answers some questions.

The fortunate owners of these homes will soon be enjoying the steady breeze and beautiful views that can be found in San Fuego. I would build a two-story home here because from the second floor it is possible to see all the way to the Caribbean. Similarly, this would be a great place to have an amateur telescope to view the stars and planets. Many nights are clear and given that there aren’t many houses in this area, there is very little light to ruin your star gazing.

Having a home in Aruba is a wonderful thing, especially if you find a place like San Fuego which is more “authentic” than a huge development in other spots. Here things are quiet, casual, and welcoming as opposed noisy and hectic. Choose your vacation home wisely, don’t compromise your goals, and do frequent inspections during construction.

Bon dia from Aruba.

Published in: on January 12, 2009 at 12:05 pm  Leave a Comment  
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