The Escape: Maldives
A minimalist design philosophy and sound architecture characterize the Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
Words by Aneesha Rai in The Lifestyle · Aug 11th, 2023
Nestled amid the enchanting landscapes of the North Malé Atoll, the Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands an unwavering commitment to embodying the essence of Maldivian culture and surroundings. every facet of this resort's philosophy and architectural design revolves around the concept of totality, embracing the genuine Maldivian spirit.
The brainchild of the acclaimed Kerry Hill Architects, the resort's iconic design is a tribute to the remarkable natural surroundings, characterized by the azure lagoon and the gentle ocean breezes. This design ethos gracefully embraces the circle of island life while seamlessly blending modern architectural principles with the Maldivian essence. Both interior and exterior spaces boast a modest yet impactful design that minimizes ecological footprints and maximizes the breathtaking views of the horizon and the natural elements.
The architects aimed to reimagine how to construct harmoniously in the present-day Maldives context, employing contemporary architectural forms that enhance the profound bond between guests and the surrounding natural spectacle.
Each villa's design goes beyond aesthetics, prioritizing an unparalleled sense of privacy. The sinuous curves and lines of the architecture cocoon each villa, allowing the water, landscape, and gentle breeze to harmoniously intertwine with the spaces. The bedrooms, adorned with panoramic sliding doors, seamlessly dissolve the boundary between indoors and outdoors. The elegantly curved deck and private pool fuse seamlessly with the ocean's expanse. Within the villa, a commitment to simplicity persists, with a carefully curated palette of natural materials and hues. Furniture, textiles, and rugs are custom-crafted by Kerry Hill Architects, often drawing inspiration from local craft traditions in collaboration with both Maldivian and international artists.
Environmental stewardship takes center stage in the resort's design, particularly in minimizing its impact on the delicate reef ecosystem. The architects adopted innovative pre-fabricated design techniques and materials, skillfully avoiding any need for island cutting and drastically reducing heavy operations. This conscious approach generates zero waste or pollution. Natural breezes play a pivotal role in cooling public spaces, while advanced glazing techniques limit the reliance on air-conditioning. The incorporation of solar panels, environmentally-friendly design materials, and a low-maintenance, weathered finish collectively contribute to an impressively low carbon footprint.
Situated in the heart of Fari Islands, the resort is a mere 45-minute speedboat ride or a quick 10-minute seaplane flight away from Malé International Airport. This idyllic setting promises guests access to the scenic Fari Marina, the archipelago's vibrant focal point. Anchored by a lively Beach Club, Fari Marina encompasses charming boutiques and an exquisite selection of dining establishments, further enriching the holistic experience offered by Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands.
All images courtesy Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Island