Hotels From a bold London sanctuary, to an art-infused Alpine retreat, these spaces seek not just to provide visitors with a place to rest, but to wholeheartedly welcome, reinvigorate and inspire. Toby Maxwell.
Words By Toby Maxwell
PATINA MALDIVES, Fari Islands, is a radical example of biophilic design from Brazilian architect Marcio Kogan, founder of Studio MK27. The hotel is part of the new Fari Islands archipelago in North Malé Atoll, where guests are free to choose between privacy and seclusion, exploring a triptych of resort islands, and embrace the vibrant social scene based around the archipelago’s communal heart, the Fari Marina Village and Fari Beach Club.
Delicate architectural lines remain respectfully low, never breaching the horizon. Verdant landscaping surrounds each of Patina Maldives’ 90 contemporary one to three-bedroom beach and water pool villas, alongside 20 more secluded Fari Studios.
Verdant landscaping surrounds each of Patina Maldives’ 90 villas, alongside 20 more secluded Fari Studios.
Marcio Kogan, founder of Studio MK27, says: ‘Patina is unique in the Maldives, offering an opportunity to be together in isolation. One of the most remote places on Earth and still a place designed for people to meet one another, Patina Maldives embraces our natural conflicts: desire for peace and party, for nature and design, technology and rusticity, selfindulgence and deep reflections.’
Kogan’s design vision is reflected throughout Patina Maldives’ accommodation, restaurants and social buildings. Public spaces are open, light and inviting and offer a communal centre with the village and beach club where guests can select from various dining options.
Throughout the interiors, earthy colour palettes, subtle textures and matte surfaces are complemented by natural materials including wood, linen, rattan, paper cord, stone and natural fibres. Floor-to-ceiling Panoramah! sliding window systems allow the villas to be opened to the elements on all three sides, while custom-made blackout blinds provide the option of shutting away from the outside world.
Millwork furniture customised by Studio MK27 exclusively for Patina Maldives incorporates subtle practical and aesthetic design features that elevate the in-room experience, from bed frames with integrated control panels to concealed device charging compartments.
Selected pieces from leading furniture designers give the spaces a touch of extra individuality and luxury, from Bassam Fellows, Lin Brasil, Gervasoni and Vitra indoors; to Dedon, Carlos Motta and Paola Lenti outdoors. Dramatic touches include monolithic twin vanities made from Nero Marquina marble and basins hewn from a single block of stone, offset by bespoke Italian porcelain tiles and al fresco freestanding double bathtubs. www.mk27.com
