Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives has announced the opening of its new Art Lab and Teen Hut. These innovative spaces, conceptualised and designed by the acclaimed design studio Muza Lab, aim to enhance the resort’s creative offerings while furthering its appeal to multi-generational families.

The Art Lab and Teen Hut embody Muza Lab’s hallmark approach of integrating culture, colour, and storytelling into design. These spaces seamlessly blend modern aesthetics with Maldivian heritage, providing a sanctuary for creativity, play, and relaxation across all age groups.

Bamboo was selected as the primary material for both structures due to its eco-friendliness and versatility. This choice highlights the natural tones of bamboo, creating a cohesive aesthetic that extends from the interiors to the exteriors. Vibrant, colourful decorations within the spaces stand out beautifully against the bamboo backdrop.

Focusing on creativity and interaction, Muza Lab infused the spaces with varied textures and hues to encourage free-flowing imagination. The Art Lab, nestled within lush greenery, serves as a haven for artistic expression. It offers workshops in painting and pottery, fostering a relaxed and inspiring environment where guests can create with their toes in the sand. The bespoke design incorporates bamboo architecture, open and airy layouts, and elements reflective of Maldivian culture.

The Teen Hut caters to younger visitors aged 12 to 17, offering a dynamic blend of fun and relaxation. This space features state-of-the-art gaming zones, a bar adorned with shells and sea glass for crafting mocktails, a movie lounge, an outdoor games area, and a second-floor music zone equipped with instruments, a stage, and a karaoke machine. Muza Lab carefully designed the furniture and ambiance to appeal to the “Instagrammable” generation while ensuring enough activities to encourage teens to step away from their devices and engage with their surroundings and peers.

Inge Moore, Founder of Muza Lab, noted that the spaces are designed to foster inclusivity and interaction, emphasising their use as venues for workshops, meetings, and collaborative experiences among guests.

Steven Phillips, General Manager of Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives, expressed pride in the new additions, stating, “The Art Lab offers a creative oasis for guests of all ages, while the Teen Hut provides a dynamic space for younger guests to connect, unwind, and create memories. These additions ensure that every member of the multigenerational family can find joy and fullfillment during their stay in our island paradise.”

Anantara Kihavah invites guests to embark on an unparalleled culinary journey featuring Michelin-starred chefs, celebrity talents, and extraordinary wine experiences. From January to May 2025, this exclusive resort will host a series of events that blend world-class dining with the breathtaking beauty of its tropical surroundings.

Anantara Kihavah begins the year with the extraordinary talents of Chef Mark Donald. A two-Michelin-starred chef from Scotland, Mark Donald is celebrated for his ability to blend traditional Scottish influences with global culinary techniques. His inventive approach and mastery of fine dining promise to transport guests on an unforgettable journey of flavour and artistry.

Complementing Chef Donald’s creations is Kamal Malik, India’s first Master Sommelier. With over 15 years of expertise, Kamal Malik will lead an exclusive wine dinner at SEA, Anantara Kihavah’s renowned underwater restaurant. Guests will savour rare and historic vintages, including the unique Coral-Aged Dom Pérignon, as Malik shares his unparalleled insights, turning each sip into a masterpiece.

Chef Melvin Chou, a Michelin-starred master of Cantonese cuisine, takes the stage in February. Known for his innovative fusion of tradition and modernity, Chef Chou redefines Cantonese dining with his creative flair and dedication to excellence.

Also in February, Charles Duval-Leroy, the visionary CEO of Champagne Duval-Leroy, hosts a sustainable Champagne dinner. Representing the sixth generation of his family, Charles brings a forward-thinking perspective to the house’s legacy, combining meticulous craftsmanship with a commitment to environmental responsibility.

March welcomes Chef Denis Lucchi, a Michelin-starred maestro of Italian cuisine. Renowned for his refined artistry, Chef Lucchi celebrates the essence of Italian heritage while introducing a modern twist. His dishes are an ode to Italy’s rich culinary traditions, crafted with passion and precision.

In April, Chef Steve Lancaster, another Michelin-starred luminary, showcases his ability to reinvent classic dishes with modern creativity. His innovative techniques and imaginative flavours promise a dining experience that delights every palate.

May concludes this culinary journey with the exceptional talent of Chef Christiaan Stoop. A three- and two-Michelin-starred chef, Christiaan is celebrated for his avant-garde approach to fine dining. As the visionary Executive Chef of Taian Table in Shanghai and Guangzhou, his illustrious career includes stints at The Fat Duck in the UK, Moments in Barcelona, and L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Paris.

Chef Stoop’s bold, artistic creations blend innovation with impeccable technique, offering a symphony of flavors that captivate and evolve with every dish.

Anantara Kihavah’s 2025 culinary calendar exemplifies the resort’s commitment to delivering extraordinary dining experiences in an unparalleled setting. From Michelin-starred gastronomy to exclusive wine dinners, this tropical paradise offers guests the chance to indulge in the ultimate fusion of luxury and flavour.

Lily Beach Resort & Spa marked the festive season with a vibrant infusion of artistry, highlighted by the presence of world-renowned artist Elvira Carrasco. Her visit served as the centrepiece of the resort’s celebrations, captivating and inspiring guests with a series of extraordinary experiences that left a lasting impression.

The festivities commenced on December 25th with a special cocktail event on the beach, where Elvira unveiled her exclusive art exhibition. This enchanting evening seamlessly blended art, elegance, and the unique charm of the Maldivian ambiance, setting the stage for the events to follow.

On December 26th, guests had the opportunity to participate in a two-hour painting masterclass under the starlit Maldivian skies. Enhanced by premium Spanish wines, the session combined creativity and indulgence, allowing participants to paint and savour the moment in perfect harmony.

December 28th featured a rare and unforgettable event as Elvira performed a live face-painting demonstration on herself. Guests were mesmerised by her artistry, as the performance showcased her talent and left a profound impact on all who witnessed it.

On December 30th, Elvira transformed her art exhibition into an interactive celebration of creativity. Guests were invited to immerse themselves in a vibrant world of colour, emotion, and storytelling. This event extended beyond a traditional art showcase, offering an intimate journey into Elvira’s artistic vision and her experiences at Lily Beach.

Elvira’s warm and engaging demeanour infused the evening with joy and laughter. As she shared anecdotes about her inspirations and the stories behind her work, guests were not only captivated by her artistry but also charmed by her humour and passion. The exhibition became a standout highlight of the festive season.

Laurent Driole, General Manager of Lily Beach Resort & Spa, reflected on the significance of this collaboration, emphasising the transformative power of art:

“Art, often seen as the domain of the informed and discerning, has an extraordinary ability to transcend boundaries when approached with vision and sensitivity. While deeper understanding can enrich its appreciation, the true essence of art lies in its power to evoke emotion and create transformative experiences. At Lily Beach, we strive to embed this quality into our five-star philosophy—moments that touch the soul and remain etched in memory.”

Laurent continued, “Elvira Carrasco’s artistry epitomised this ethos. Through her expert interplay of colour, graphic design, and poetic photographic compositions, she offered more than aesthetic experiences—she invited our guests into a realm of creativity and self-expression. The image of Elvira painting her face on a pristine sandbank surrounded by the Indian Ocean’s turquoise hues was a moment of sublime inspiration, resonating deeply with all who witnessed it. This collaboration was not merely an artistic interlude but a lasting gift that will continue to inspire and be cherished for years to come.”

The festivities concluded on January 1st, 2025, with a closing art exhibition, during which guests eagerly selected personalised art pieces to take home. These bespoke creations served as timeless mementos, reflecting Elvira’s exceptional talent and the unforgettable experiences of their time at Lily Beach. Each piece embodied the beauty and magic of the festive season and the personal connections formed during the events.

The celebrations continued at Lily Beach until January 5th, leaving guests enchanted and eager for future experiences.

As one of the first all-inclusive, premium resorts in the Maldives, Lily Beach remains dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences while redefining luxury in the ever-evolving hospitality landscape. The resort honours its cherished guests, many of whom return year after year, becoming lifelong members of the Lily Beach family and creating enduring memories in paradise.