Hudhufushi Maldives

Nowadays, it is not uncommon for the requirement of “an instagrammable holiday destination” to form part of the design brief for tropical resorts. The site conditions of Hudhufushi however called for a design approach which goes beyond creating picturesque imagery and focuses on crafting a series of spatial experiences which cumulate into an immersive journey for guests.

Existing structures of an abandoned resort development shrouded in lush greenery forms the site context of Hudhufushi. Instead of building from scratch, the existing ecosystem comprising of abandoned concrete artefacts and the island’s natural flora & fauna was seen as an opportunity to bring guests into close contact with Nature. 

Emerging from the forest, approach towards the villas is choreographed to meander through lush gardens set within a sea of coconut palms to create a sense of curiosity and anticipation as guests continue on their journey through the island.

Adopting the approach of “treading lightly & blending in with nature”, the public areas and garden villas are carefully introduced as extensions to the existing island topography and landscape.

Commitment to environmental stewardship   is a common vision shared by the client and architect when the project was first conceived as a development where Man and Nature would co-exist in a symbiotic relationship.

Materials for the resort are selected based on availability and locality within the archipelago to reduce carbon footprint of the development. Prior investigation and knowledge into available construction know-how and traditions of Maldives form the basis for planning a development that will benefit the local community socially and economically.

By retaining the existing concrete structures on site, limited vegetation and groundcover clearance is required for construction access thus reducing unnecessary disruption caused to the island’s natural ecosystem.