Location: Maldives
AIMA Construction have partnered with us to design a world-class eco-luxury resort in the Maldives, located within the breathtaking Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Known for its coral reefs, calm lagoons, and marine biodiversity, the atoll provided the perfect setting for a project that unites architecture,sustainability, and hospitality.Working with a developer renowned for creating landmark properties for Cheval Blanc and The Ritz-Carlton, we were tasked with designing their first independently developed island resort.
Our vision was to create a sanctuary that brings the forest to your fingertips and the coral reef to your doorstep, a resort where sustainable architecture and sensory experience meet. Every space, from the spa and kids’ club to the treetop dining pavilions, encourages guests to reconnect with nature while redefining luxury as something deeply rooted in place.
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Our design approach is grounded in biophilic principles and a deep respect for the island’s ecosystem. The Arrival Pavilion, sculpted to resemble organic landforms, sets the tone with its seamless integration into the surrounding forest.
The Overwater Villas, inspired by the graceful movement of manta rays,feature 68 sculptural lodges whose curved roofs and flowing lines echo the marine life found in the lagoon below. Each villa opens toward private pools and uninterrupted ocean views, offering a profound sense of tranquillity and connection to nature.At the heart of the resort, the Waterfall Spa is suspended within the treetops, surrounded by lush vegetation. Here, elevated spa pods with panoramic ocean views immerse guests in sound, light, and movement, creating a holistic sense of wellbeing.
Five distinct dining experiences extend the theme of natural immersion, from treetop walkways leading to secluded pods to open-air beachfront pavilions,each crafted with local materials and sustainable design techniques.
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Sustainability is the foundation of the resort’s identity. Renewable energy systems harness both solar and ocean energy to provide self-sufficient power, while a biomass energy centre and photovoltaic water treatment system ensure efficient,low-impact operation. Coral restoration programmes are embedded within the resort’s infrastructure, helping to regenerate local reef habitats and promote long-term biodiversity. Prefabricated and recycled materials have been carefully integrated into the design and construction process, reducing waste and protecting the fragile marine ecosystem. The result is a resort that captures the beauty of Maldivian architecture while setting new standards in sustainable tourism and environmental design.
This project embodies the belief that true luxury lies in harmony with the land, the sea,and the people who inhabit them. The Baa Atoll Resort stands as a testament to what is possible when architecture respects the planet while offering experiences that feel timeless, restorative, and deeply human.
