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Four Seasons Opens Second Resort in Maldives

The villa concept combines the “appeal of living on land and sleeping over water.”

Staff -- Interior Design, 11/10/2006 12:00:00 AM

Just a month and a half after launching the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, the luxury hotelier has opened its sophomore resort in the exotic archipelago. The Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru occupies an entire 44-acre island surrounded by white sand beaches. The design of the resort was largely influenced by the architecture and interior design of celebrated Sri Lankan architect and interior designer Geoffrey Bawa, who is now deceased. Bawa’s protégé Ismail Murad led the project, following traditional Maldivian architectural principles and using indigenous materials and details that reflect a sense of place.

While Murad’s approach was traditional, his villa concept is new to this area, combining “the appeal of living on land and sleeping over water.” At 7,320 square feet, the villas consist of a land-based pavilion with private beach access, living and dining area, guest room, and a sea-based pavilion with bedroom, bathroom, and outdoor shower.

The resort also features a 2.5-acre spa complex with 10 treatment pavilions, as well as two restaurants, three swimming pools, and a variety of activities.

To conserve and protect the variety of marine life and habitats, Four Seasons implemented initiatives toward responsible tourism. In particular, the Ornamental Fish Breeding Programme at the resort’s fish laboratory aims to prevent species depletion and provide an additional source of income for locals; proceeds from all sales stay within the community.

Currently, Four Seasons operates 71 hotels in 31 countries, and has more than 20 properties under development.