Images: CHAD MUNRO
Cynthia and Jordan Tranel are not only a married couple, but are partners in creating high-end homes.
The husband-and-wife team recently completed the luxury spec house Paradise Pad. Although it has now been sold, the residence remains the pride and joy of the couple for whom, along with designing and building the high-end spec home Crystal Crib, was the first joint venture of its kind.
And, to their delight the house won the category of residential interior private residence for the Cayman Islands, in the Americas section of the International Property Awards for 2024-2025.
SHARED PASSION
With her interior design company, the Cynthia Tranel Studio, and the retail shop Label C, Cynthia’s skills perfectly complement those of Jordan, a builder whose construction company is called the Tranel Group.
“Being married and being business partners is a wild ride, and it’s not meant for everyone, but we are here for it,” says Cynthia. “We live and breathe our projects daily, both at work and at home.
“Our shared passion for what we do fuels our drive, and we find immense satisfaction in building something together. We truly get each other and provide unwavering support, making the highs more exhilarating and the lows more manageable.”
Cynthia obtained a bachelor’s degree in interior architecture from the Académie Libanaise des Beaux-Arts in Beirut, later graduating from a school in Milan with a master’s degree in interior design for luxury living.
After then working on high-end residential projects in the United Arab Emirates and Europe, Cynthia craved new experiences and challenges, which is when she arrived in the Cayman Islands.
She met Jordan, who hails from Colorado, just three months into her time on-island, while he was working on construction at the Kimpton Seafire Resort and Spa.
SETTING UP BUSINESS
In 2019, Cynthia started her own interior design studio, while Jordan set up Tranel Group and she soon began designing their flagship projects – Crystal Crib and Paradise Pad – all while planning their wedding in the US and Beirut.
“I designed the architecture and interior of the spec homes, and he built them,” says Cynthia. “It is a powerhouse when you have both skills under one roof (design and build). Our individual skills complement each other in the best, most balanced way.”
The four-year process of constructing Paradise Pad began during lockdown, when the couple walked onto the vacant lot.
INNOVATIVE DESIGN
The 6,168-square-foot home, which features five bedrooms and 5 1/2 bathrooms, is nestled right on the canal, with an emphasis on innovative design, quality, and living well every day.
“When designing this home, we wanted to create a liveable luxury, embracing our signature aesthetic of timeless interiors,” says Cynthia. “A project that truly embodies every hallmark we want our designs to stand for; natural yet refined, comfortable yet elevated, high-impact yet liveable, warm yet intriguing.”
For example, the kitchen was intentionally designed with character and richness, using the highest quality materials available, and with a mix of natural and dark tones that set the vibe for the entire home.
“The cabinetry and all details throughout the house were custom designed down to the tee,” says Cynthia. “To complement the architecture and interior, furniture, bedding, and accessories were all sourced from our boutique shop collection at Label C.”
Another example is the primary suite which was designed to feel like a luxurious hotel suite, compact where the occupants have all that they need, yet spacious and comfortable, with stunning canal views.
“As you step in, you are greeted by a 15-foot ceiling with an impressive void carved out of it that transmits a sense of serenity,” says Cynthia. “The scale-exaggeration and natural materials abundantly add to the feeling of well-being.”
Ten-foot custom pocket doors between the bedroom and bathroom area were added for when partition is needed.
“The flow and light penetrating in between produce a harmonious entity,” says Cynthia.
In the primary bathroom, the built-in tub extends to form a bench in the steam-shower for two.
“The plumbing fixtures selected from Waterworks not only elevate the aesthetic of the bathroom but also boast a beautiful patina that promises to age gracefully, enhancing the charm and character of the space over time,” Cynthia explains.
“The traditional handmade Moroccan tile incorporated in the shower, with its rich thickness and perfect imperfection, adds a layer of authentic, tactile beauty that is unmatched.”
With the theme of warmth and natural beauty continued throughout Paradise Pad, the home celebrates fine craftsmanship, high-end selections, fine materials, and bespoke details.
“Designing and building Paradise Pad has been an absolute delight for us,” says Cynthia. “The thought of a family enjoying and making memories in a space we’ve meticulously crafted brings us unparalleled joy and fulfilment.”
This article originally appeared in the Autumn/Winter 2024 issue of InsideOut magazine.
