Awards
.Here Baa Atoll recognised for landscape and suite design at AHEAD Asia 2026
.Here Baa Atoll has been named a winner in two categories at the AHEAD Asia 2026 Awards, receiving honours for Landscaping & Outdoor Spaces and Suite. The recognition celebrates the private island retreat’s distinctive approach to hospitality design, where architecture, interiors and landscape have been conceived as a unified response to one of the Maldives’ most extraordinary natural settings.
The wins follow .Here’s selection among the 2026 AHEAD Asia shortlist, which was drawn from a record field of more than 220 entries from across the region. The project was recognised alongside its creative collaborators Kulör Group, Muza Lab and Topo Design Studio.
Set within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, .Here takes an intentionally intimate approach to island hospitality, comprising just nine expansive residences across two natural islands, Somewhere and Nowhere. Rather than treating the landscape as a backdrop, the design places it at the centre of the experience, creating an architecture that responds to light, movement, material and the changing relationship between land and ocean.
The architectural vision was conceived by Christopher Chua of Kulör Group, with interiors by Inge Moore of London-based Muza Lab. The two disciplines were developed around a shared principle: spaces should feel grounded in their environment rather than imposed upon it. Indoor and outdoor areas flow into one another, while natural materials, muted tones and tactile layers create interiors that are deliberately restrained. Views towards the horizon, lagoon and sky become part of the composition, with architecture serving to frame rather than compete with the landscape.
That dialogue with nature extends through the residences themselves. Carefully considered proportions balance openness with intimacy, while transitions between beach and ocean, shade and sunlight, and interior and exterior spaces are designed to feel fluid. The architecture follows the contours of the islands, with residences positioned to maximise views and the experience of sunrise and sunset. Passive cooling strategies and responsibly sourced materials also form part of the project’s environmentally sensitive approach.
Inside, Muza Lab draws on the maritime character of the Maldives through bespoke furnishings, artisanal detailing and natural textures. References to traditional dhonis, celestial navigation and the shifting colours of the Indian Ocean are interpreted subtly rather than literally, creating spaces that feel contemporary while retaining a strong sense of place. Even the names of .Here’s residences look beneath the waterline for inspiration, referencing the coral reefs and marine formations that shape the ecosystem of Baa Atoll.
The Landscaping & Outdoor Spaces award places particular emphasis on another important element of the project: the relationship between the built environment and the existing island landscape. Working alongside Kulör Group and Muza Lab, Topo Design Studio approached the landscape as an extension of the architecture, retaining native vegetation and shaping pathways, gardens and shared spaces around the connection between land, sea and sky.
The Suite award, meanwhile, recognises the residential experience at the heart of .Here. Rather than conventional hotel accommodation, the retreat is composed entirely of large-scale private residences designed around space, privacy and a close relationship with the ocean. Across the project, architecture and interiors move between expansive living areas and quieter, more intimate spaces, allowing the experience of the surrounding landscape to remain ever-present.
The two awards mark a progression from .Here Baa Atoll’s earlier recognition as an AHEAD Asia finalist across multiple design disciplines and underscore the strength of the collaboration between Seaside Hotels & Resorts, Kulör Group, Muza Lab and Topo Design Studio. The official AHEAD shortlist credits the same project team across .Here’s Landscaping & Outdoor Spaces and Suite entries.
With the Asia winners now advancing to compete with winning projects from other regions, .Here Baa Atoll will progress to the next AHEAD Global edition, where the programme’s worldwide champions will be determined.
For .Here, the recognition ultimately reflects a design philosophy that is intentionally quiet: architecture that gives precedence to its surroundings, interiors informed by place rather than decoration, and a landscape allowed to retain its own identity. The result is a retreat where the experience of design is inseparable from the experience of Baa Atoll itself.
To learn more about .Here Baa Atoll, visit www.here-maldives.com.
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has been named Highly Commended for Best Long-Haul Family Stay in the Family Traveller Awards 2026, recognising the resort’s thoughtful approach to family and multigenerational travel, where considered design, generous space and experiences for every generation allow families to holiday together while enjoying the freedom to create their own time and space.
Organised by Family Traveller, the UK’s leading family travel publication, the awards attracted hundreds of entries across 19 categories. An independent panel of expert family travel journalists selected the finalists before thousands of public votes determined the winners and highly commended properties, announced at an awards ceremony in London on 11 September 2026.
Just 30 minutes by luxury speedboat from Velana International Airport, Kuda Villingili combines easy accessibility with an island experience thoughtfully designed for families. Its 75 private-pool villas and residences include spacious multi-bedroom Villas, Residences and Retreats particularly suited to extended and multigenerational stays. Individual bedrooms and living areas feature separate external entrances alongside internal connecting doors. This allows families to stay together while retaining a sense of privacy and independence – particularly useful for grandparents, parents, couples and older children travelling together.
For younger guests, Kuda Fiyo Kids Club offers its own expansive beach beside the island’s shallow lagoon, giving children space to explore while parents enjoy time of their own. With supervised outdoor adventures, creative activities, games and island discoveries, the programme encourages young guests to experience the island independently. The daily Kuda Villingili train ride has become a much-loved ritual for little explorers.
Family-friendly thinking continues throughout the island. The resort’s spectacular 150-metre swimming pool features dedicated shallow areas for younger swimmers, while the surrounding lagoon opens the door to kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and other ocean adventures.
Budding surfers can also take their first steps into the sport with certified surf instructors at Baby Chickens, the beginner-friendly section of the island’s renowned Surf Chickens break, where they can gradually build their confidence and skills in the ocean.
Older children and teenagers are equally considered, with tennis, padel, pickleball, futsal, volleyball, watersports, diving and other recreational experiences offering plenty of independence and adventure beyond the Kids Club years. Across eight distinctive restaurants, diverse cuisines provide something for every generation, with children under 12 dining complimentary, while parents can retreat to the overwater Spa or enjoy time of their own as younger guests explore the island.
This balance between togetherness and individuality lies at the heart of Kuda Villingili’s family experience. Families can share a villa without sacrificing privacy, pursue different experiences during the day, and come together again over dinner, beside the pool or for a Maldivian sunset – allowing each generation to experience the island in their own way.
Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director of Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, said: “We are incredibly proud to be Highly Commended for Best Long-Haul Family Stay by Family Traveller. At Kuda Villingili, we have always believed that a family holiday should give everyone the freedom to enjoy the island in their own way – whether that means children discovering new adventures, parents finding time to unwind, or several generations coming together to share memorable experiences. This recognition is a wonderful acknowledgement of our team and the experiences we strive to create for every family who stays with us.”
The accolade further highlights Kuda Villingili’s family-focused offering in the Maldives, where “Time and Space Redefined” takes on a special meaning: more time to reconnect, space for every generation, and experiences designed to become part of the family story.
For more information and reservations, visit www.kudavillingili.com or contact reservations@kudavillingili.com.
In a world where true luxury is measured by the moments that linger, THE OZEN COLLECTION has once again proven its mastery. The brand claimed top honours at the 33rd World Travel Awards, cementing its position as a global leader in luxury hospitality. From the turquoise waters of the Maldives to the world stage, its commitment to refined elegance, personalised service, and sustainable innovation was celebrated by industry peers and discerning travellers alike.
OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI was awarded ‘Maldives’ Leading Luxury Hotel Villa’ for the fourth consecutive year, a remarkable achievement that underscores the resort’s unwavering dedication to ultra-luxury hospitality. The crown jewel of the resort, the Royal RESERVE, spans 3,000 square metres and features a private beach, sprawling pool, personal spa treatment room with dedicated therapists, and lavishly appointed living spaces. Guests enjoy exclusive privileges including 24-hour private butler service, a personal chef, and direct lagoon access with panoramic Indian Ocean views. The signature RESERVE Experience™ ensures every desire is anticipated and fulfilled with discreet precision.
“This extraordinary recognition celebrates our passionate pursuit of crafting unforgettable journeys,” says General Manager Abnash Kumar. “To be honoured for four consecutive years fills us with immense joy and strengthens our commitment to perfecting the art of meaningful luxury.”
OZEN LIFE MAADHOO was honoured with ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Villa Resort’ for the second time, having previously won the same category in 2024. The resort’s acclaimed INDULGENCE™ Plan continues to set the standard for comprehensive luxury, offering guests unlimited access to gourmet dining across seven restaurants, premium beverages, curated excursions, and signature spa journeys, all seamlessly included. The iconic underwater restaurant M6m, the first of its kind in the South Malé Atoll, provides a breathtaking setting for unforgettable dining experiences.
“This award is a testament to the dedication of our entire team,” shares General Manager Mei P. Pun. “Every aspect of OZEN LIFE MAADHOO is designed to offer a genuine connection to the beauty and culture of the Maldives.”
These latest accolades add to an impressive collection of recent honours. Both resorts were named among the top ten percent of hotels worldwide in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2025, with OZEN LIFE MAADHOO securing a coveted place in the ‘Best of the Best’ category, reserved for the top one percent of hospitality providers globally. The collection also earned JOINT GOLD for ‘Best All-Inclusive Hotel for Families’ at the inaugural Junior Travel Awards 2026. OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI’s ELE|NA Elements of Nature Spa was nominated as Maldives’ Best Wellness Retreat at the World Spa Awards 2025, while OZEN LIFE MAADHOO’s sustainability leadership has been validated by three consecutive years of Green Globe Certification.
As THE OZEN COLLECTION continues to expand its award-winning hospitality beyond the Maldives, with upcoming properties in India including OZEN MANSION KOLKATA, OZEN VILLAS JAIPUR, and OZEN PRIVADO GOA, these recognitions reaffirm the brand’s position at the forefront of luxury hospitality, where refined elegance meets genuine connection and environmental responsibility.
Discover award-winning luxury at THE OZEN COLLECTION. Whether you seek the profound privacy of OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI or the vibrant energy of OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, your perfect island story awaits.
There are few images more closely associated with the Maldives than a villa suspended above a turquoise lagoon. For travellers dreaming of the islands, the water villa has become an icon in its own right, a private place above the sea, where mornings begin with the sound of water and the lagoon is just a few steps away.
Against this backdrop, Baros Maldives has been named Indian Ocean’s Leading Water Villa Resort 2026 at the World Travel Awards, recognising its distinctive collection of overwater villas and the experience they offer above and within the lagoon.
At Baros, life over the water is wonderfully simple. The Water Villas are designed around a close connection with the sea, each with its own private deck and direct access to the lagoon. From here, guests can slip into the water for an early morning swim, snorkel across the reef or simply sit back and watch the changing colours of the Indian Ocean.
For those seeking a little more space and a private pool, the Water Pool Villas bring together the best of both worlds.
At 126 square metres, each villa offers generous space and privacy, with a private pool overlooking the lagoon and the sea stretching endlessly beyond.
But perhaps what makes the Baros water villa experience truly distinctive is what lies beneath.
Baros is a small island and its house reef is remarkably close to the Water Villas. Within minutes of leaving the villa, guests can find themselves among coral gardens and tropical marine life, discovering the underwater world that has always been at the heart of Baros. Overwater living is not simply about being above the sea, it is about being immersed in it.
It is this effortless connection between villa, lagoon and reef that makes the Water Villas at Baros so special. The setting is spectacular, but the experience is unhurried and deeply personal: barefoot mornings, afternoons spent in the water and evenings watching the sun disappear into the horizon.
The award was presented by the World Travel Awards, one of the travel industry’s most established international awards programmes, recognising excellence across hotels, resorts and travel businesses worldwide through votes from travel professionals and the public.
“We are very pleased to receive this award,” says Ibrahim Faisal, Sales Manager at Baros Maldives. “The water villas have always been an important part of the Baros experience and we are proud to see them recognised in such a competitive destination. The setting speaks for itself, but it is our team who bring the experience to life and make each stay memorable for our guests.”
At Baros, there is no need to look far for the sea. It is beneath your feet, beyond your deck and all around the island.
And perhaps that is the enduring appeal of a Baros Water Villa: the luxury of having the Indian Ocean as your backyard, your swimming pool and your view.
Life here remains intentionally uncomplicated. A small island to explore barefoot, a reef just moments away, a villa above the lagoon and time to simply enjoy being here.
For booking enquiries, please contact reservations@baros.com or call +960 664 2672.
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