the luxe maldives resort that’s an art-lover’s haven
a luxury eco-retreat with large scale art installations from some of the world’s best: introducing patina maldives
luminescent light installations and mirrored monoliths glimmering alongside sleepy palm trees are not what come to mind when one imagines a tropical island getaway. the newly minted patina maldives makes a convincing case for a novel kind of resort experience, one that combines the arcadian charm of its island environment with the revelatory experience of art. the brainchild of brazilian architecture studio studio mk27, patina is a gorgeous island stay that’s been impeccably designed. modelled in size and structure after a traditional fishing village, the resort includes beachside villas, a boardwalk of luxury boutiques, restaurants, bars, and spa with hammam and sensory deprivation tank.
the exterior of james turell’s light installation at patina. image credit: patina maldives
as far as post-pandemic travel goes, it’s also one of the best options at the moment. over 93% of all resort employees in the maldives are fully vaccinated, making it a safe travel destination for sound peace of mind. a short flight from singapore and located in the maldives’ north malé attol, the fari islands offer a brand new resort experience on untouched sands. home to just three resorts, spaces have been thoughtfully designed in collaboration with international architectural firms to priorities community engagement and sustainability.
a peek inside james turrell’s sky space. image credit: patina maldives
skyspace amarta is the crowning jewel of patina. the brainchild of california light artist james turell (who really needs no introduction), skyspace amarta is an iteration of the artist’s renowned installations that provide an immersive, sensorial experience for their audiences. as with all of turrell’s pieces, skyspace is site specific, designed to function as a transformative potral to the outside world. constructed from sustainably sourced timber with a totally transparent supply chain, the work consists of an expansive chamber with a ceiling aperture that opens up to the sky. guests are invited to experience the piece at all times of the day, to truly comprehend the different shades of the maldivian skyline.
“home deep blue” by hiroko takeda, in one of the resort’s suites. image credit, patina maldives
art inhabits every corner of patina. the contemporary brazilian architecture is a masterpiece in itself, marrying a muted palette that blends seamlessly into the environment with clean, considered lines. patina collaborated with consulting group the artling, to commission a range of unique, permanent pieces for the resort. guest rooms are decked out with bespoke artwork, including a tapestry by japanese artist hiroko takeda and series of photographic prints by brazilian artist cássio vasconcellos. outside the guest rooms, a series of sculptural works dot the beach. “synthesis monoliths”, by dutch-chinese artist hong jie yang, comprises eight mirrored columns that investigate the transformative power of metal and how they can play with the outside world. sunbathers will find themselves in good company with fahr 021.3 studio’s “momento”, a concrete sculpture that puts bodies on the beach in conversation with vegetation and the ocean.
“momento” by Fahr 021.3. image credit: patina maldives