ADR s.r.o. have been successfully Shortlisted for the Beach House Award with their project ‘Velaa Private Island’ at this year’s International Design & Architecture Awards. Velaa Private Island lies in the Indian Ocean waters off the shore of the Maldives, north of the capital Male. 48 villas of various sizes and layouts situated right on the beach or overlooking the lagoon. The island offers a bonanza of social and sports activities, including several restaurants.
The brief was to design a unique private island which will stand apart from the rest of the islands. All residences have sufficient privacy and adequate private beach space; each residence has its own pool and access road. The architecture for the island, through its design and the experiences it offers is truly unique in the Maldives context. The design, architecture, interiors, materials and accessories chosen serve the purpose of instilling peace, relaxation, privacy, ensuring residents feel the unique environment of the Maldives.
The design used largely traditional materials and technologies, tastefully and functionally supplemented with modern elements. ADR were careful to strike a balance between privacy and a ‘feast for the eyes’ through humble, yet meticulously executed architecture combining tradition and modernity and surprises with familiarity. ADR also sought to minimise the negative footprint of the resort operation on the environment by promoting the restoration and development of the natural resources on the island and its surroundings, especially under water.
