Known for its bold and culturally responsive approach, the Singapore-based studio, Miaja Design Group, has reimagined this latest W resort with a new design narrative centred around the natural dualities of the Maldives – drawing from both the vibrant marine ecosystems below and the biodiverse island terrain above. This design direction moves away from overt opulence and instead emphasises subtle immersion in nature, environmental awareness and personal connection.

The project focused on all 77 villas and public areas across the resort. Miaja Design Group created two distinct experiences within the villa categories: Premier Overwater Villas and Escape Beach Villas. The overwater villas explore the ‘world below,’ with interiors inspired by underwater lifeforms such as coral and whale sharks. For instance, the bedhead features sculptural, deconstructed coral forms embedded with softly pulsing LED lights to mimic bioluminescent sea creatures. A custom TV wall reflects the complex geometry of brain coral, offering both aesthetic detail and a metaphorical nod to nature’s intelligence.

An abstract whale shark motif spans the mosaic floor of the infinity pool, blending tones of silver and indigo that shimmer as light moves across the water. Through a glass floor panel, a projected silhouette of a whale shark drifts by – intended as a fleeting, dreamlike moment that reinforces the connection between guest and habitat. Other notable details include a sea urchin-inspired mixology bar with geometric panels that reveal ingredients and tools, as well as a bathroom layout anchored by a Cristalmood transparent tub, shaped to echo the natural contours of a reef lagoon.

The Escape Beach Villas shift focus to the ‘world above,’ highlighting the mangrove forests that play a key ecological role in the region. Design elements throughout these villas reflect the forms and resilience of the mangrove tree. A laser-cut headboard features root-like motifs that cast shadows mimicking tidal reflections, and a hand-inlaid wooden panel continues the root imagery in rich, contrasting tones. The mix bar here takes on the shape of a fallen mangrove leaf, incorporating locally sourced ingredients as part of the guest experience. Pendant lighting borrows its warm tones and salt-crystal textures from mangrove flowers and leaves, while a transparent Cristalmood bathtub reappears in the bathroom, this time complemented by an emerald-green mirror referencing the foliage above.

Related: Revisiting W Bali Seminyak

In the public areas, Miaja Design Group used open, modular furniture and layout strategies to promote social interaction while maintaining a strong visual connection to the outdoors. Design cues such as bridges and sculptural pods guide the guest experience across the site.

Environmental conservation efforts are central to the resort’s transformation. Design features symbolise the symbiotic relationships within local ecosystems, and the resort supports on-the-ground initiatives like coral reef restoration and mangrove reforestation.

According to Isabelle Miaja, the studio’s Creative Director, the goal was to express the Maldives’ delicate ecological balance through design that invites awareness and engagement. This renovation reflects a broader shift in luxury travel – one that favours subtle storytelling, sustainability, and deeper ties to place.

Miaja Design Group
miajadesigngroup.com

Next up: Hotel design in India with Studio Lotus