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(CNN) — Many architects would kill to be given a blank piece of paper on which to create their dream project.
His approach was to build in a way that accentuated the natural beauty of the island using as few natural resources as possible.
“The real concept is how we can show this existing beautiful nature, which means a clean, white beach and clean water,” explains Yamazaki. “These are the elements we want to protect.”
First on the priority list: clean energy.
Although solar power is becoming common in the Maldives, Yamazaki doesn’t like how many hotels and resorts try to hide the panels behind buildings as if it’s something embarrassing or ugly.
Instead, he and his team designed their own panels and incorporated them into the overall aesthetic of the resort. Today, Cudadu is the only island in the country that is completely solar powered.
“We decided to design a large public building with only a solar roof,” says Yamazaki. “In terms of the power calculations, that was enough casting to cover or supply the electricity in the island.”
Aerial view of Kudadu Resort.
Kudadu Maldives private island
In addition to creating something beautiful and useful, Yamazaki had another goal in mind for solar panels – education.
“When you go to the Maldives, you usually arrive by seaplane or boat, so the first impression of the resort is always a rooftop or building in the distance,” he explains. “Instead of hiding it, we have made it the main character of the island so that people can see it.”
That’s what Yamazaki wanted to achieve. Travelers to the Maldives may come for the luxury and beautiful surroundings, but the architect hopes they leave with a sense of responsibility for caring for the islands.
In his view, sustainability is not an out-of-sight add-on behind construction. Instead, it’s a beautiful piece of design that’s placed in as plain a space as possible.
A sinking nation
The low-lying islands of the Maldives are at high risk of climate change.
Projections from NASA in collaboration with the United States Geographical Survey show that by 2050, the country could be completely underwater.
“Our islands are slowly being submerged by the sea, one by one. If we don’t reverse this trend, the Maldives will cease to exist by the end of this century.”
One of the 15 villas of Cudadu.
Kudadu Maldives private island
Yamazaki also sounds the alarm.
“The concern is really becoming visible and loud. Seas are rising faster than scientists predict. People in the Maldives are very concerned. We’ve been walking around the new resorts and making sure there’s been a lot of research done on erosion and beach conservation.”
But the architect is trying to be more proactive in his approach.
“As an architect, we are to build a new environment,” he says. “To show what’s under the water, not just sea level rise, but what’s happening to sea temperature, why coral is dying or why this year’s fish migration is different… we also want to bring it to people’s attention as well.”
That famous stretch of white sand at Quedado.
Kudadu Maldives private island
As more and more travelers become aware of sustainability and especially look for properties that rely on natural fuel and energy sources, the architect believes that brands and destinations will follow.
“I think a lot of developers, architects, investors … are becoming more aware of why people come here — beyond the typical five-star hotel stay. What are the best points? The water, the air, the wind, the view, I think those are the important things.” “Instead of building the fun big swimming pool and bar lounge, I think a lot of investors are trying to clean up not only that, but some of the profits for the local community. The environment.”
Private plunge pools, world-class wine lists and doing something good for the environment at the same time? right now That’s what he said. It looks luxurious.
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