For more than three decades, the Holowesko family has been investing in The Bahamas on a range of fronts, including extensive support for a host of local charities.

This commitment is set to be redoubled with the announcement that a substantial part of the profits from The Island House (TIH), the Holowesko’s new 30-room boutique hotel in western Nassau, will be donated to selected community efforts.

Mark Holowesko – who, along with his daughter Lauren, is the driving force behind the project – said the family already has a number of worthy causes in mind.

“We are proud to have been able to give back to this community in the past,” he said. “There are certain efforts that need sustained support, and we think that The Island House presents a wonderful opportunity to help bridge that gap.”

A principal area of focus for the family has been children who are struggling with health issues. Last year, Nassau-based investment firm Holowesko Partners expanded its longstanding relationship with Canadian group SickKids, donating C$250,000 to treat children in The Bahamas and the region who are battling cancer.

Holowesko said both children and health will continue to be priorities, with The Island House looking to partner with a wide range of care and support groups.

“There are a number of worthy entities that are doing invaluable work in The Bahamas,” he said. “We are proud to have been able to work with many of them over the years, and excited about the chance to redouble our efforts with past partners and forge several new relationships as well.”

The Island House, set to officially open in April, will be unique among Nassau hotels, aiming to offer a distinctive blend of contemporary luxury and authentic island style.

The property features beautifully appointed garden and ocean view guestrooms, expansive poolside cottages and six apartment units that command spectacular views of both the ocean and the picturesque southern expanse of the island.

Dining choices include the already acclaimed Mahogany House, with its seasonal menu highlighting native organic ingredients and fresh local fish; and Shima, which will offer South East Asian cuisine in a sophisticated yet relaxed open-air atmosphere.

Health and fitness are central themes of TIH. The property features a world class spa, fully stocked gym, 25-meter lap pool, squash and padel courts, and a movement studio offering Antigravity® classes, as well as traditional yoga, Pilates and Barre programs under the guidance of experienced and qualified instructors.

The hotel aims to become a hub for meetings and conferences. The diverse range of event spaces include the intimate Library, the expansive Events Lawn, and the 80 seat, fully equipped Meeting Room featuring a state-of-the-art a/v and projector system.

Another focus is local culture, with TIH’s art collection highlighting young and emerging Bahamian talents as well as established masters. The Cinema is designed to attract and captivate guests and local culture buffs alike, screening both blockbuster and art house films with a special focus on Caribbean and Bahamian productions.