Environmental Needs Working with Luxurious Standards

Between the naturally stunning landscapes and ocean views of the Maldives, and the sumptuous luxury that defines the small island nation’s strong tourist industry, it is easy for the casual visitor to forget the serious environmental situation of the islands themselves. The government has far from forgotten however, resulting in strategies to create sustainable living which includes such luxuries as an entire floating golf course.

For those who were not aware of the country’s precarious situation, the Maldives has an average elevation of just five feet above sea level (the lowest country in the world), while scientists predict sea levels to rise by as much as two feet by 2100, forcing inhabitants out of their homes. While sand has been used to create islands in the past, this technique can disturb the seafloor ecosystem.

Thus came the idea of floating islands, now in the process of becoming a reality with the world’s largest floating island project.

While affordable housing is on the project agenda, building has begun for such residences as villas at The Ocean Flower. 185 luxury Water “H2Omes” are being build in the shape of a typical Maldivian flower. Each villa comes in one of three designs, all with terraces and a private plunge pool.

Meanwhile, Amillarah, a Maldivian word for “Private Island”, describes the projects 43 floating private islands in an archipelago configuration. Each villa has a private beach, pool and landscape area, with a boutique hotel providing necessary service to each private island.

The environment and luxury don’t need to be exclusive of each other — and if you find these projects as fascinating as we do, take a look at more floating cities of the future from National Geographic.