Nestled in the pristine beauty of Gaakoshibee Island in the Shaviyani Atoll of the Maldives, this luxury resort offers an unparalleled experience of tropical paradise. Comprising an exclusive collection of 65 beach villas, 1 presidential villa, and 40 water villas, the resort provides the perfect blend of natural beauty, high-end luxury, and world-class hospitality. With a total floor area of 35,319 m², this resort is designed to offer guests an idyllic escape while maintaining the highest standards of structural integrity, safety, and efficiency.

As part of the development, Meinhardt was appointed to provide expert engineering services, including Civil & Structural and Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) due diligence studies. The project also required structural design for necessary rectification works to ensure the resort was built to meet the demands of both luxury and long-term sustainability in a challenging island environment.

A Vision of Luxury in the Maldives

The Maldives is globally renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique island resorts, which are designed to offer privacy, tranquility, and world-class luxury. This resort, located on Gaakoshibee Island, continues that tradition by creating a luxury retreat that offers both exclusivity and stunning views of the surrounding ocean.

The development comprises:

  • 65 Beach Villas: Spacious, opulent villas directly located on the beach, offering guests a peaceful, luxurious escape.
  • 1 Presidential Villa: The pinnacle of luxury, offering an unparalleled experience with extensive amenities, private pools, and bespoke services.
  • 40 Water Villas: Built on stilts above the crystal-clear waters, these villas offer spectacular views of the ocean and a direct connection to the sea, providing a serene and private experience.
  • FOH and BOH Facilities: Front-of-House (FOH) facilities such as restaurants, lounges, and leisure areas, alongside Back-of-House (BOH) facilities to ensure smooth operations and optimal guest services.

Together, these elements provide the perfect balance of comfort, luxury, and tranquility, set against the unique landscape of the Maldives.

Meinhardt’s Role: Engineering Excellence in Paradise

Given the complex nature of building in a tropical island environment, Meinhardt’s expertise in both Civil & Structural Engineering and MEP was essential to the project’s success. The role of Meinhardt in this development involved two main phases: due diligence studies and structural design for rectification works.

Due Diligence Studies

The initial phase of the project involved conducting due diligence studies to assess the structural integrity and MEP systems of the existing resort infrastructure. This process was crucial to ensure that the resort could withstand the challenging environmental conditions of the Maldives, which include high humidity, saltwater exposure, and strong winds.

Meinhardt’s team conducted detailed evaluations of the structural framework, building foundations, and MEP systems to ensure they met local regulations and international standards. The due diligence work also involved identifying areas where improvements or upgrades were necessary to ensure the long-term durability and operational efficiency of the resort.

Structural Design for Rectification Works

In addition to the due diligence studies, structural design services were provided for the necessary rectification works on certain parts of the resort. This was particularly important given the complex nature of building in the Maldives, where sustainability and durability are key concerns. Meinhardt’s team worked closely with the client and architects to design the necessary structural modifications to ensure the buildings could endure the local climate while maintaining the luxurious appearance and functionality of the resort.

The rectification works included strengthening foundations, reinforcing structural elements, and ensuring that the MEP systems were both efficient and sustainable. Meinhardt’s engineering expertise allowed for the integration of these essential upgrades without compromising the resort’s aesthetic or operational performance.

Sustainability and Innovation

Given the Maldives’ unique geography, with its small islands and fragile ecosystems, sustainability was a key consideration for this project. Meinhardt’s engineers ensured that the resort’s structural systems and MEP solutions were optimized for energy efficiency and environmental performance.

Some of the sustainable features included:

  • Energy-efficient systems: Meinhardt’s team designed HVAC systems, lighting, and other MEP solutions with a focus on energy efficiency, reducing the environmental impact of the resort while ensuring the comfort of its guests.
  • Water conservation: Given the limited natural water resources on the island, water-saving plumbing systems were designed to optimize usage and reduce waste.
  • Resilient structures: The structures were designed to withstand the challenges of the tropical environment, including high winds, saltwater corrosion, and humidity, ensuring the longevity of the resort buildings and minimizing maintenance requirements.

Creating an Iconic Destination

With the structural integrity, sustainability, and luxury seamlessly integrated into every aspect of the design, this resort is destined to become a world-class destination. Meinhardt’s contribution to the project ensured that both the resort’s architectural vision and functional performance were realized to the highest standards.

The project exemplifies how advanced engineering can support and enhance luxury hospitality in some of the world’s most challenging environments. By focusing on both luxury and sustainability, the resort is set to provide guests with an unforgettable experience, while ensuring that the development stands the test of time.

Conclusion: A New Standard in Maldives Luxury Resorts

This luxury resort on Gaakoshibee Island is more than just a place to stay; it’s a destination that offers guests the chance to experience the natural beauty of the Maldives without compromising on luxury or sustainability. With 65 beach villas, a presidential villa, and 40 water villas, the resort is designed to cater to the most discerning of guests, providing a perfect blend of seclusion, elegance, and world-class service.

Meinhardt’s involvement in this project helped ensure the structural integrity and sustainability of the resort, while contributing to its vision as a luxury destination that will set new standards for hospitality in the region. This resort is a shining example of how engineering and design excellence can come together to create a truly iconic luxury experience.