St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has captivated guests with its imaginative design since its opening in November 2016. This architectural marvel was brought to life by WOW Architects, a Singapore-based collective renowned for its innovative and sustainable designs. When allowed to design a Maldivian resort hotel, WOW Architects aimed to create a sensory experience that would educate, raise awareness, and foster new paradigms of interacting with the physical environment. The result is a paradise where guests can emotionally and intellectually connect with the complex ecosystems they inhabit.
The design of the resort embraces the distinct ecological zones of Vommuli Island: the lagoon, the beach, the jungle, and the coastal areas. Drawing inspiration from the unique features of each zone, the architecture seamlessly blends elements from the natural and man-made environments.
During the construction phase, WOW Architects prioritised minimising environmental impact and reducing logistics and labour requirements. The resort’s pre-fabricated timber system was chosen for its sustainability and eco-awareness. This technology, utilising renewable resources, minimised the use of concrete and steel. Cross-laminated wood technology played a pivotal role in expressing the resort’s commitment to the environment while creating captivating architectural forms.
The Lagoon Zone at St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is a captivating haven inspired by the abundant marine life thriving in the area. Drawing inspiration from the graceful form of manta rays, the neighbouring overwater villas exude elegance with their distinctive cephalic lobes. Guests are treated to vast spaces and panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, where private terraces provide direct access to snorkelling adventures and offer tranquil spots for contemplation. Inside, a muted palette, elegant furnishings, and floor-to-ceiling windows create a serene ambience. Design details pay homage to coral structures, with carpets depicting rippling waters and lighting fixtures reminiscent of delicate corals, truly capturing the essence of the marine world.
Within this serene zone, guests can unwind and enjoy the panoramic views at the Whale Bar, which draws inspiration from the majestic whale shark. This captivating space offers an idyllic setting to relax and savour the breathtaking vistas. For those seeking tranquillity and rejuvenation, the Iridium Spa awaits, inspired by a crustacean. Reflecting the elegance and serenity of the underwater world, the spa provides a sanctuary where guests can indulge in luxurious treatments and find solace amidst the beauty of the lagoon.
Nestled within the Beach Zone, the villas at St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort draw inspiration from the traditional fisherman’s huts that once graced the island’s shoreline. Reflecting the coolness of coral sand, the architecture creates a refreshing ambience, even amidst the intense heat of the sun. This zone offers guests a tranquil setting to indulge in the serenity of beachfront living.
In addition to the captivating villas, the Beach Zone is home to a magnificent infinity pool that frames the shoreline, seamlessly merging with the vastness of the ocean. Here, guests will discover Alba, the resort’s signature restaurant. Set within a light-filled, pavilion-style structure inspired by the timeless designs of Mies van der Rohe, Alba presents a delightful fusion of Maldivian and Italian flavours combined with bistro classics.
The Jungle Zone at St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is a captivating sanctuary that celebrates the island’s natural beauty. A commitment to preserving the island’s character led to the protection of numerous mature trees and flora, seamlessly incorporated into the design.
As guests venture into the Jungle Zone, they are greeted by a network of tunnelway roads, their paths adorned with soft sands and enveloped by lush greenery. At the heart of this zone lies Vommuli House, an architectural marvel that echoes the branching roots of the banyan tree. Serving as the largest recreation centre in the Maldives, Vommuli House branches out into the bush, offering a multitude of activities designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit.
The Coastal Zone, positioned on the southern side of Vommuli Island, boasts a captivating coastline where the island meets the encircling coral reef. Here, the coastal family villas offer two distinct varieties. Six units extend from the jungle, partially perched on the rocky coast, while an additional six units sit on the rocky shoals along the fringes of the island.
Each villa offers a unique connection to the surrounding environment. The sail-like roofs, reminiscent of the iconic Dhoni boats, create a sense of harmony and unity with the coastal landscape. The deliberate design ensures unobstructed vistas and allows guests to embrace the beauty of the ocean from the comfort of their villa.
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort showcases a harmonious blend of luxury and nature, honouring the island’s ecological diversity.
