Featured
Patina Maldives venerates horizon with biophilic design concept
Scheduled to launch in Q2 2021, Patina Maldives, Fari Islands is a radical new example of biophilic design from renowned Brazilian architect Marcio Kogan, founder of international award-winning Studio MK27.
Set in the new Fari Islands archipelago, Patina Maldives is complemented by two other luxury resorts, providing an elevated travel experience.
The inaugural flagship resort from Patina Hotels & Resorts, a new elevated lifestyle brand by Capella Hotel Group, is part of the brand new Fari Islands archipelago in North Male Atoll, where guests are free to choose between privacy and seclusion, exploring a triptych of luxury resort islands, and embracing the vibrant social scene that emanates from the archipelago’s communal heart: the Fari Marina Village and Fari Beach Club.
Inspired by the beauty and metaphorical significance of the island landscape, Studio MK27’s delicate, rhythmic design for Patina Maldives conjures spaces and atmospheres that encourage deep connections with nature, as well as communion with other people.
Design concept
Delicate architectural lines remain respectfully low, never breaching the horizon, in deference to the exuberant, encompassing blues above and below.
Verdant landscaping envelops each of Patina Maldives’ 90 contemporary one- to three-bedroom Beach and Water Pool Villas, alongside 20 Fari Studios in private sanctuary, yet unfolds invitingly into the surrounding island life; a simultaneous experience of isolation and belonging.
“Patina is unique in the Maldives: an opportunity to be together in isolation. One of the most remote places on Earth and still a place designed for people to meet one another,” Kogan said.
“Patina Maldives embraces our natural conflicts: desire for peace and party, for nature and design, technology and rusticity, self-indulgence and deep reflections.”
Kogan’s design vision is reflected throughout Patina Maldives’ accommodation, restaurants and social buildings.
Public spaces are open, light and inviting and offer a communal beating heart with the Fari Marina Village and Fari Beach Club. Here, guests will find alluring retail and enticing dining options as well as a large, commissioned James Turrell pavilion.
The permeable design of the island’s buildings promotes a pleasing and inviting experimentation of each space; these are organised according to a hierarchy of textures and coverings that creates a gentle transition between open and closed spaces.
Throughout the interiors, earthy colour palettes, subtle textures and matte surfaces are complemented by arcadian materials to create a dialogue with nature. Wood, linen, rattan, paper cord, stone and natural fibres extend out from the interiors, blurring boundaries, drawing the outside world in whilst enticing inhabitants out.
Uniquely for the Maldives, floor- to-ceiling Panoramah! sliding window systems allow the villas to be opened to the elements on all three sides – while custom-made blackout blinds offer cocoon-like cosiness at the touch of a button.
Millwork furniture customised by Studio MK27 exclusively for Patina Maldives incorporates subtle practical and aesthetic design features that elevate the in-room experience and cater to the needs of the connected contemporary traveller, from bed frames with integrated control panels to concealed device charging compartments.
Carefully selected pieces from the world’s leading furniture designers imbue the spaces with individuality and luxury: from Bassam Fellows, Lin Brasil, Gervasoni and Vitra indoors; to Dedon, Carlos Motta, and Paola Lenti outdoors.
Further drama is added by unique features including monolithic standalone twin vanities made from Nero Marquina marble and basins hewn from a single block of stone, offset by bespoke Italian porcelain tiles and al fresco free-standing double bathtubs.
Patina Maldives has further underlined its cutting-edge architectural credentials and passion for socially conscious hospitality by joining Design Hotels, a handpicked collection of independent, design-driven hotels that function as social hubs and spaces for purposeful experiences.
Patina Hotels & Resorts has been created by Capella Hotel Group to appeal to an audience looking for immersive, experience-led travel, where conscious design is combined with intuitive service in some of the world’s most exceptional locations.
Inspired by independent minds with a deep appreciation of nature and community and an unwavering devotion to the wellbeing of the planet, Patina Hotels & Resorts encourages guests to nurture genuine connections with themselves and the world around them.
Human-centred design ensures that spaces flow with guests’ natural modes, gently and intuitively anticipating and providing for each individual’s needs so that no two stays are the same.
Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi wins ‘Best Service’ at 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi, a renowned boutique resort in the Maldives celebrated for its Maldivian-inspired elegance, has received recognition at the 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence.
This prestigious accolade honours outstanding quality across recommended properties worldwide and serves as a trusted benchmark for travellers and industry professionals alike. Coco Bodu Hithi was awarded the title of ‘Best Service’ by Condé Nast Johansens for its exceptional hospitality, which seamlessly blends serene surroundings with meticulous, personalised service.
Additionally, the resort was recently recognised in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards as one of the top resorts in the Indian Ocean, cementing its position as a leader in luxury travel. Offering a thoughtfully curated guest experience, Coco Bodu Hithi continues to set itself apart within the industry.
The resort also excels in culinary innovation, boasting four exceptional restaurants. Renowned Michelin-starred chefs frequently collaborate with Group Culinary Director and Michelin-starred chef Martin Cahill to craft exquisite dining experiences, reflecting Coco Bodu Hithi’s unwavering commitment to service excellence and world-class gastronomy.
Drink
Cocktail art meets tropical bliss: Tao Zrafi transforms Oaga Art Resort’s Sobi Bar
Oaga Art Resort has transformed its Sobi Bar into a Mixology Garden, showcasing a collaboration with internationally acclaimed Beverage Artist and Netflix’s ‘Drink Masters’ finalist, Tao Zrafi.
Far from the typical poolside bar, the revamped Sobi Bar offers a unique experience where artistic cocktails take centre stage. Standard drinks are replaced with Tao Zrafi’s creations, which expertly blend local Maldivian flavours with surprising twists, providing a sensory journey for visitors.
Each cocktail at Sobi Bar is a testament to Tao Zrafi’s creativity. His exclusive menu combines stunning visual presentation with complex, delightful flavours, elevating the drink experience into an art form.
The Mixology Garden caters to diverse tastes. In addition to Tao Zrafi’s signature creations, Sobi Bar offers a curated selection of international gins and artisanal beers, ensuring every guest finds the perfect beverage to suit their preferences.
To commemorate the launch of the Mixology Garden, Oaga Art Resort is hosting several special events:
- Cocktail Masterclasses (November 29 and December 6): Guests can learn from Tao Zrafi himself, discovering the secrets behind his innovative cocktails.
- The Grand Unveiling (December 5): This evening celebration features Tao’s signature cocktails, a buffet, live music, interactive mural painting, and spectacular fire shows. Guests can enjoy a sunset soiree combining art, music, and unforgettable flavours.
Sneak peeks of Tao Zrafi’s creations are available on Oaga Art Resort’s social media platforms, offering a teaser of the enchanting cocktails awaiting guests at Sobi Bar.
Whether seeking relaxation, artistic inspiration, or an elevated cocktail experience, the Mixology Garden at Sobi Bar promises something extraordinary. With its blend of stunning flavors, unique atmosphere, and unforgettable events, Oaga Art Resort ensures every visitor leaves with cherished memories of paradise.
Featured
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa announces exclusive collaboration with Maldivian
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, a luxury destination located in the pristine Haa Alifu Atoll of the Maldives, has announced its exclusive partnership with Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, for all seaplane and domestic flight transfers. Starting from November 1st, 2024, this collaboration aims to provide guests with unparalleled convenience and seamless travel to the resort, ensuring daily service, with additional transfers available depending on the season.
The resort is known for its spacious villas, exceptional privacy, a wide array of experiences, world-class amenities, and personalised service, all set in a lush, natural island paradise. With Maldivian as its exclusive seaplane transfer partner, guests can enjoy a direct, swift, and scenic journey from Velana International Airport to the resort’s doorstep.
Ahmed Hafeez, Managing Director of Lily Hotels, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Maldivian to elevate our guests’ arrival and departure experience. This collaboration ensures a smooth and luxurious transition, allowing guests to begin their unforgettable holiday the moment they step off the plane.”
Upon arrival at Velana International Airport, guests are welcomed by the resort’s dedicated airport representatives, who escort them to the exclusive Lily Hotels Lounge at the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal. Here, they can relax and enjoy panoramic views, complimentary refreshments, and Wi-Fi while awaiting their transfer.
In addition to seaplane transfers, Maldivian will also manage domestic flight transfers for guests who prefer this alternative. This comprehensive approach highlights Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa’s commitment to providing flexible and convenient travel solutions.
The partnership with Maldivian also positions the resort for future growth, particularly with the upcoming upgrade of Hanimaadhoo International Airport. This development is expected to enhance accessibility and offer more travel options for the resort’s clientele. The collaboration is anticipated to generate increased interest in the less-explored northern Maldives, an area known for its untouched natural beauty and more tranquil, underwater experiences.
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