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Designing a resort on an island poses a double challenge: meeting the needs of both developer and operator, while creating a self-sufficient community for 220 guests and 380 staff, all within a fragile ecosystem. The project included the master plan, 25 building typologies, interior design, and coordination of disciplines from environmental impact to off-grid MEP systems. Inspired by the natural beauty of the Maldives and local materials—without imitating false vernacular styles—the design seeks seamless integration with the landscape. A balance of luxury and sustainability was achieved through passive strategies, renewable energy, and low-impact construction.
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The project is deeply integrated into the surrounding landscape, with structures designed to mimic natural forms and blend into the environment. Local natural materials and various techniques for working with wood—both solid timber and engineered wood such as tropical pine glulam—were employed to minimize visual impact. The layout preserves sightlines to the ocean and tropical vegetation, while raised platforms ensure minimal disruption to the marine ecosystem. Sustainable practices enhance the relationship with the environment, creating a seamless connection between architecture and nature.
The project integrates sustainable solutions like solar energy (via photovoltaic panels on all flat roofs), rainwater harvesting, and natural ventilation. Public buildings use natural cooling with electric blowers and bamboo water systems. Structures are built with FSC-certified wood, recycled materials, and low-VOC finishes, minimizing environmental disruption. A hydropower turbine harnesses tidal currents, supplementing solar energy, even at night. The island is plastic-free, features rooftop hydroponic gardens, and produces drinking water via solar-, wind-, and tide-powered desalination. Smart systems optimize energy use, enabling potential Green Globe certification.
The resort distinguishes itself through its integration with the natural landscape, blending refined “tropical modern” architecture—echoing Oscar Niemeyer and Geoffrey Bawa—with strong sustainability principles. Each building features unique forms inspired by local marine life: roofs mimic mantas, turtles, and whale sharks, while the bamboo yoga pavilion resembles a lotus flower. This isn’t just metaphor, but a mimetic homage to the island’s biodiversity. The master plan ensures each structure has a distinct identity, using eco-friendly materials and elevated designs to minimize ecological impact. Key features include solar panels, natural cooling systems, and smart ventilation. Construction techniques reduce seabed disruption through a micro-piling system called "Mangrooves," which uses sacrificial rings to control corrosion. Innovations include hydroponic rooftop farms, tidal micro-turbines, and materials like recycled glass, FSC-certified wood, coral-based plaster, and compacted sand, eliminating most concrete use. The result is a model of luxury, nature, and environmental responsibility.
This project represents a vision of hospitality where architecture becomes a bridge between comfort and nature.
In 2006 Giampiero Peia founded the Peia Associati studio with Marta Nasazzi.
The studio carries out international design activities at various scales, from urban planning to interior design, from modular architectural design to the design of industrial products.
Numerous international awards received, including The Westin Resort in the Maldives, a complex of residential towers in Shanghai, the "Ikeda for Peace" Cultural Center, the Coca Cola Pavilion and its subsequent "Second Life" as a public structure in a park in Milan wins the Toward award at Sustainable EXPO Milano 2015. Finally, in collaboration with Robonica, wins the first prize at the Vertical Farm International Awards. The New Conference Room XIX at United Nations in Geneva has been completely renovated with the project of the PEIA studio. The capacity of the hall is 800 seats, with 320 seats and desks for the delegates of the States, making this assembly hall of 4000 square meters, the largest hall of the UN.
