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Amanera, the 29th Aman resort, is set atop a cliff in a remote part of the Dominican Republic, in keeping with the company’s long-established preference for pristine, out-of-the-way locations. The chosen site is a superb tract of land that encompasses 2,170 acres of untouched rain forest bordering Playa Grande, one of the most spectacular beaches in the Caribbean. Aman also acquired a legendary Robert Trent Jones golf course immediately adjacent to the property.
The resort’s main building, the Casa Grande, is a large two-story structure, much of it glass, with open walkways, atriums, terraces and cantilevered water features that combine to give it a subtle complexity. It reminded me of the work of both Edward Durell Stone, who designed the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and Philip Johnson, who created the iconic Glass House in Connecticut. The architect was London-based John Heah (who is currently at work on another Aman resort on the Greek island of Kea).
Rising from the beach up the hill into the rain forest, the 25 individual Casitas (13 with pools) form an array that resembles a large amphitheater. From the outside, it is hard to appreciate just how large they are. On entering, we were taken aback by the exceptionally generous interior, augmented by a spacious terrace. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls provided unobstructed ocean views. The living room featured midcentury modern-style furniture, augmented by a built-in desk and wooden bookshelves. A bright area rug added just the right dash of color. Sliding wooden panels separated the living room from the equally large bedroom, with an adjacent dressing room. The bath came with a walk-in shower and soaking tub, as well as a large glassed-off garden.