weaved bamboo roofs enclose pavilions for wellness resort in the maldives

Bamboo architecture in Maldives for a spa & wellness retreat

Desa Bambu design group experiments with bamboo architecture to construct a wellness retreat composed of several open-air pavilions floating in the Maldives archipelago. Joali Being Resort provides a nature-immersive experience through the sustainable building complex developed on a bamboo framework and topped with naturally woven roof canopies. The design team in collaboration with the Asali Bali engineering group realize the project of a hospitality and spa spot on Bodufushi island including the Yoga Shala unit overlooking the ocean and the Apothecary building and relaxation area merging with the natural environment. The engineering and construction aim at maintaining the architectural idea of a floating retreat complex delivering technical solutions and details to preserve the quality and stability of the structure in the particular island climate.

all images provided by Federico Antonelli

herbology & leisure center stands under circular bamboo roof

The ‘Apothecary’ herbology center and outdoor relaxation area is dedicated to the rich heritage of healing through the power of herbs. Consisting of two main parts, the structure sets up a large circular bamboo roof and a covered glazed pavilion, while, also, distributing sheltered outdoor zones that blend with the tropical surroundings. The building rests on concrete pedestals raising the bases of the bamboo poles, used as columns, to effectively avoid the capillary moisture from the ground and rain and increase the lifespan of the elements.

The architectural group follows a plan of fourteen pillars made with coupled poles and strengthened with inclined bracings that unload the roof weight with the help of a central bamboo tower. The roof structure consists of fourteen beams made of three poles and placed radially on the vertical supports. Five orders of linear purlins give the circular shape of the roof and provide support to the last layer of rafters. Bamboo cross system reinforces the structure, while natural Indonesian thatch ‘alang-alang’ left hanging from the gutter line provides protection from sun and rain and forms the final appearance of the canopy.

SPA floating on the sea frames between inclined bamboo posts

An elevated walkway leads to the spa pavilion that arranges two floors for spa recreational functions on the ground level and service spaces, as well as a multipurpose hall on the upper floor. Long inclined columns form the entrance of the building and a bamboo cladding covers the concrete structure maintaining a natural appearance throughout. The roof supportive system is made with inclined bamboo posts and sits on the concrete slab. The first floor plans a circular open area assembling the necessary support elements on the perimeter of the slab. The roof overhang shields the bamboo construction from sun and rainwater, while framing the ocean views. The ‘alang-alang’ thatch net fabricates an intricate texture shaping a skylight at the summit point where solid transparent anti-UV polycarbonate allows zenithal illumination of the space.

the apothecary entrance and outdoor area put up a glazed front between the immersive bamboo construction

apothecary roof structure from intertwined bamboo branches

spa on the sea small-scale model perspective

apothecary small-scale model elevation

apothecary small-scale model perspective

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spa pavilion roof plan

spa pavilion ground floor plan

spa pavilion section

apothecary roof plan

apothecary section

project info:

name: Bodufushi
designer: Cuneyt Bukulmez, Atolye 4N

engineering, construction: Asali Bali

author: Desa Bambu

location: Bodufushi, Maldives, South Asia

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom