this luxury resort by autoban draws from the maldives' vernacular architecture

this resort on muravandhoo, an island in the maldives, comprises 73 luxury villas in addition to a variety of restaurants, communal spaces, and personalized facilities. the project’s interiors, as well as certain architectural elements, have been designed by istanbul-based studio autoban who sought to ‘give a new meaning to the island life through an unlimited and dynamic experience.’

all images courtesy of JOALI

JOALI maldives, which promises an ultra-luxury experience, is centered around muravandhoo island with a series of jetties extending out into the indian ocean. some of the villas are elevated above the water, while others have been built on the island itself. in designing the project, autoban utilized local materials, textures, and craftsmanship to channel the ‘maldivian spirit’.

the resort is located on muravandhoo island, in north maldives

one of the project’s most eye-catching structures is the arrival jetty, which features a sculptural wave-like canopy that shelters those arriving at the resort. the entire structure is topped with a thatched roof — a gesture that has been extended to other parts of the resort. internally, the color palettes used on different surfaces reference different tones of coconut, one of the island’s most distinctive features.

JOALI consists of 73 luxury land and over-the-water villas, restaurants, and communal spaces

the resort’s arrival jetty

the covered structure features a dramatic roof canopy

the interior of one of the site’s luxury beach villas

the project’s interiors have been designed by autoban

an aerial view of one of the site’s luxury water villas

local materials have been used throughout the project

natural tones contrast vibrant splashes of color

spa treatment room

an aerial view of the resort complex

project info:

name: joali maldives
location: muravandhoo island, the maldives
total area: 63,000 sqm
client: guralla
interior design: autoban
photography: provided by the client