Japanese architect Shigeru Ban has designed Infinite Maldives, a “resort residence” in the Maldives featuring gardens and rows of houses on the water made from timber and locally sourced materials.
The five-hectare resort will be located within the Male’ Atoll, and is designed to “embrace the Maldivian vernacular” according to Shigeru Ban Architects.
The property will feature 44 villas set on beach and over water, connected by a long wooden boardwalk. The houses will surround four gardens by landscape artist Michael Desvigne.
Ban designed the Infinite Maldives resort to blend in with the surrounding Indian Ocean.
The digital renders show double rows of houses facing each other across a long wooden boardwalk that leads to a plot of land with an amorphous central building.
“What makes Infinite Maldives unique is that the resort blends in with the sea and the green nature in an ‘infinite’ manner,” Ban said.
“To minimize the amount of transport and energy for construction and material production, we use various innovative pre-fabrication methods and focus on applying lightweight materials as well as recycled materials,” he added.
Ban further remarked the project would be a “true act of sustainability” due to its harmonious relationship with the surrounding nature.
“In contrast to many developments selling ‘sustainability’ just as a label in the commercial sense, our aim is to create a place where people can relax mentally and physically, in harmony with the environment, taking in all its value,” the Japanese architect added.
Infinite Maldives is designed by Sri Lankan developer Crystal Property Group. The property will feature a spa, fitness center and wellness facilities as well. The villas would come with its own infinity pool and outdoor lounging spaces.
“We are proud to be delivering the first resort residence and one-of-a-kind opportunity in the Maldives, which is a huge milestone for the country and a great achievement for us,” said Crystal Property Group CEO Reza Magdon Ismail.