The groundbreaking ceremony for Kempinski Grace Bay represents a significant milestone in the evolution of Turks and Caicos as a world-class luxury destination, bringing Europe's oldest luxury hotel group to the Caribbean for the first time. The development signals growing international investor confidence in the islands' tourism market and establishes new benchmarks for sustainable luxury development in the region.
Honourable Charles Washington Misick, Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands, emphasized the project's importance during the ceremony, stating that it represents an important step in the islands' evolution as a world-class destination. The development comes at a time of increasing global interest in Turks and Caicos, offering investors and visitors the opportunity to experience the islands' cultural heritage through the lens of luxury hospitality.
Developed by international award-winning developer JTRE, the project spans 11 acres of pristine shoreline along Grace Bay Beach, widely regarded as one of the world's most beautiful beaches. The low-density design features 119 private residences and four oceanfront villas, all oriented toward panoramic sea views. Marek Baca, Chief Representative for the Americas at JTRE, described the vision as creating a sanctuary that blends timeless European elegance with the natural splendor of Grace Bay.
Barbara Muckermann, Group CEO of Kempinski Hotels, highlighted the significance of bringing the 128-year-old hospitality group's art of service to what she called one of the true gems of the Caribbean. The property will stand as a flagship within Kempinski's portfolio, representing an enduring expression of the group's heritage and craftsmanship while respecting the destination's culture and heritage.
The development incorporates extensive sustainability measures, including insulated glass, solar systems, and native landscaping nourished by recycled water. This environmental focus reflects growing consumer demand for eco-conscious luxury travel experiences and sets new standards for responsible development in Caribbean tourism markets.
Residents and guests will have access to signature amenities including fine dining venues, a beach club, a 3,000 square foot wine cellar, a European spa, and sports facilities featuring tennis and padel courts. The interior design draws inspiration from the island's natural palette, using materials like limestone, timber, and glass to create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor living spaces.
Construction is scheduled to continue through 2026, with completion anticipated in 2028. Sales for the private residences are exclusively represented by Christie's International Real Estate Turks & Caicos and Engel & Völkers Turks & Caicos. Additional information about the development is available at www.gracebayresidences.com.
The partnership between Kempinski Hotels and JTRE builds on their successful collaborations across other international markets, including acclaimed developments in London, Slovakia, and Germany. Rasha Lababidi, Chief Product & Experience Officer at Kempinski Hotels, described the future property as an iconic destination that captures the brand's ethos of rarity, authenticity, and timeless grace.
This development represents more than just another luxury resort—it signifies the maturation of Turks and Caicos as a premium tourism market capable of attracting world-renowned hospitality brands. The project's emphasis on sustainable practices, cultural authenticity, and low-density design reflects evolving consumer preferences in the post-pandemic luxury travel sector, where exclusivity and environmental responsibility are increasingly valued alongside traditional luxury amenities.
