Established shortly after Hurricane Ivan, Donal McGrath and his team were instrumental in rebuilding a devastated community in the early years of the firm and have since worked on a wide range of projects, including residential, commercial and civic. Whether applying their creativity and expertise to schools, government buildings, resorts or private residences, their commitment to providing practical, reliable advice and personal attention remains unchanged.

BDCL’s services include architectural design, interior design and project management.

BDCL’s APPROACH TO DESIGN

With over 20 years’ experience in the Cayman Islands, BDCL’s approach to design is people-first and environment-led. Blending elements of modern innovation with traditional and climate-conscious Caribbean design, BDCL works closely with their clients to ensure each project is a tailor-made experience from inception through to construction.

RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

BDCL’s book of residential projects ranges from private single-family dwellings to large-scale condominium developments across the island.

While the scope of the project may vary, Donal and his team are steadfast in their commitment to promoting Cayman’s vibrant culture and relaxed lifestyle through design: open-air spaces, natural ventilation, locally sourced materials and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living are just some of the beautiful features that a BDCL house design boasts.

Working with each client to understand their vision, lifestyle, priorities and budget, BDCL translates their dreams and needs into spaces that reflect both their identity and the beauty of the natural environment.

Some key features of BDCL’s residential designs include: thoughtful collaboration and meticulous planning open-plan layouts, where the living, dining and kitchen areas flow smoothly into each other high ceilings to maximise light and space rooflines that may be pitched or flat, mixing traditional island influences with modern design ventilation louvres, trellis work and shaded outdoor spaces to further blend interior and exterior

COMMERCIAL PROJECTS

In addition to residential projects, BDCL also specialises in commercial design. The firm’s expertise spans office buildings, retail spaces, hotels and mixed-use developments that balance functionality, aesthetics and business needs.

As with any BDCL project, sustainability and an appreciation for the island’s natural environment remain at the forefront. Eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems and modern technology are incorporated into designs and, where possible, BDCL follows the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building rating system with respect to design, site development, water efficiency, energy efficiency, material selection and indoor environmental quality.

HARBOUR WALK

BDCL provided architectural services for Harbour Walk, a mixed-use development in Grand Harbour that embodies modern Caribbean living. Designed around a shady, landscaped courtyard and featuring breezy walkways and high-end amenities, Harbour Walk is a prime example of BDCL’s commitment to embracing tropical urban design.

With a vibrant blend of retail spaces, dining venues and entertainment options on the first floor and Class A office spaces and modern residences above, it has quickly become a community hub, not only for residents of the development but also for the wider neighbourhood.

THE TEAM

Donal McGrath

Founder Donal McGrath has been practicing architecture in the Cayman Islands for over 30 years; he also has extensive experience working in England and Ireland. Donal earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree from University College Dublin and is a member of both the Royal Institute of British Architects and the Institute of Cayman Islands Architects.

Kristen Mandish

Kristen received her BA in Architecture from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. While completing her degree she studied throughout Italy and Japan, developing a passion for modern aesthetics that she continues to apply to her designs.  

Rotimi Assani

Rotimi trained at the KNUST School of Architecture, Ghana, where he gained a BSc and PG Diploma in Architecture. Building on his formative education he pursued an advanced degree in Sustainable Design and Computer Aided Building Simulation from the University of Sheffield.