OFIS Unveils 4 Self-Sustaining Islands in Maldives

Slovenian architect studio OFIS was recently granted a 25 year lease by the Maldivian government to develop a set of four islands into tropical eco resorts. Each island’s plan demonstrates concern for the local environment, the ability to self-sustain, and the developers’ genuine intent to maintain the cultural and ecological authenticity of the local area. Their proposal, which includes a 100-bed 5-star resort, will be spread throughout the islands with a variety of different accommodation styles, from bungalow to villa. This will all be done according to local law, of course, which, among other stipulations, requires that no building can be higher than the tallest tree on the island.

OFIS selected their four islands from a pool of 14 available for the project. Local environmental experts surveyed the islands to determine designs and methods most compatible with reef, wind and sun patterns, and local vegetation. The proposed construction materials are locally sourced bamboo, straw and wood that will be prefabricated on the mainland as much as possible.

The first island, Funamadua, is a relaxing sanctuary with seaview verandas and a spa. The second, Hadahaa, connects to a local village. Villas wrap around the island giving each one a private patio. The third and fourth islands, Konotta and Randheli, include similar offshore dwellings where visitors will feel like they are simply floating above the sea.

+ OFIS

Via ArchDaily




by Alexandra Kain
April 27, 2009