The Jamaican Great House stood at the heart of plantation life, serving as the seat of authority for planters or their representatives. Its scale and grandeur often reflected the estate’s profitability and the owner's wealth. Commonly, these homes rose two stories high with robust foundations built from brick, stone, and mortar, while upper levels were constructed of wood. Some Great Houses were single-story buildings made from wood, stone, Spanish walling, or wattle and daub, reflecting a wide variety of styles and materials.
Many of these architectural designs drew on English influences, notably the Georgian style (1720–1760), adapted to Jamaica’s tropical climate between 1760 and 1830. Wide verandas, jalousies, and sash windows defined the Jamaican Georgian look, providing both ventilation and shade. As sugar profits declined, maintaining such lavish residences became increasingly difficult. Still, these Great Houses stand as influential reminders of the island’s plantation past. Several have earned National Monument status from the Jamaica National Heritage Trust, highlighting their historical and cultural importance.