1. Six Senses Kanuhura

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True to the Six Senses philosophy of being in harmony with the environment, the cluster of three coral islands that make up Kanuhura is no different. Everything is crafted using local and sustainably sourced materials, with thatched roofed villas, lush tropical vegetation, and gardens blossoming with rare and colorful orchids. The 14 different room categories range from beach villas to water villas and large residences. The Beach Villas, nestled on both the sunrise and sunset sides of the island offer direct access to the beach and lagoon while remaining discreetly framed by swaying palms and greenery. The same cohesiveness is seen in the interior, with its natural wood, woven detailings, rattan furnishing, and earthy finishes that feels organic and gives the place breathability. Outdoor decks extend living spaces into the landscape, while open-air bathrooms feature sheltered main areas and additional rain showers under the sky. The layout encourages natural ventilation and daylight, which reduces reliance on enclosed and mechanically cooled spaces.

Sustainability continues beyond materiality. The private pools are integrated seamlessly into timber decks, while the Earth Lab with its hydroponic garden reinforces responsible sourcing and environmental education. Even the spa architecture, with its high timbered ceilings and filtered light, reflects a commitment to passive cooling and connection to nature. At Six Senses Kanuhura, eco-friendly architecture is embedded in planning, material choice, and the spatial experiences rather than just an aesthetic statement. This allows the island to remain the dominant  presence while luxury exists in quiet balance with its environment.

2. Oaga Art Resort

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At Oaga Art Resort, architecture does not follow a single idea. Sustainability is part of it, but so is storytelling, and the two tend to overlap across the island. Many of the livable spaces and furnishings are built using upcycled materials. Barrel counters appear in villas and shared areas, and spaces such as Suvāsthi Studios and the Hoara X-Centre are made from refurbished shipping containers. Nothing feels overly finished, which works in its favour.

The villas shift in character depending on the story behind them. Some draw from folklore, others from maritime history, with forms and details that reference traditional Maldivian building methods. It is not subtle, but it does not feel forced. At Oaga, sustainability sits within the design itself, expressed through materials, structure, and its overall composition. This balance gives the island a lived-in honesty, where craft, story, and purpose.

3. Six Senses Laamu

Six Senses Laamu sits within a remote lagoon in Laamu Atoll, with villas spread between the beachfront and overwater jetties. The island is easy to move through, with weathered timber walkways connecting everything without disturbing the landscape too much.

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The villas are built using local and sustainable materials, but what stands out more is how they are laid out. Overwater villas come with upper and lower decks, netted hammocks, and glass sunken bathtubs facing the lagoon or ocean. Treetop decks add another layer, giving a higher view across the water. On land, beach villas are set within dense vegetation, opening out to private pools and outdoor bathrooms. The transition between indoor and outdoor space feels natural, with very little separation. At Six Senses Laamu, the design stays close to the setting, allowing the island and surrounding water to remain the focus throughout.