Coco Palm Bodu Hithi: A Malaysian Timber Showcase in the Maldives
As with the Island Villas, all three types of over-the-water villas possess a timeless charm and combine elements of traditional Maldivian architecture, such as high-pitched roofs and floor-to-ceiling windows. Malaysian Kempas adorns the roofing structure while Meranti is used for the windows. The natural waterscape of the Maldives is framed perfectly by the large windows that are found in every villa.
Located in the center of the island resort is the reception area, which sports a post-and-beam roofing system, made of Malaysian Merbau with Kempas trusses. The ceiling of the reception area features a dramatic web of trusses that support each other culminating in an apex and capped by a thatched roof. Concealed mood lighting lends a warm, soothing effect to the ambience. The central timber feature wall, flanked on both sides by a screen of bamboo poles, has a distinctive modern design that adds a contemporary touch to the reception area.
Other public areas feature a combination of Malaysian Balau and Kempas for the roof structure. The Stars Restaurant and Bar features a simple Balau deck furnished with all-weather outdoor furniture. With a design that is minimalist and fuss-free, the décor provides a setting that complements the beautiful surrounding sea which can range in color from the deepest blue to the greenest turquoise. The restaurant, situated some 100 meters out to sea, is accessible via a boardwalk, also made of Malaysian Balau. The Stars Restaurant and Bar is located with a cluster of eateries, all of which are built on stilts in the sea. These include the all-day dining Air Restaurant, the elegant al fresco dining Aqua Restaurant, the Latitude cocktail bar and the Tsuki Japanese restaurant which features amazing sunset views.
The resort's Coco Spa sits above the crystal clear waters of the ocean, a naturally therapeutic setting for guests seeking spa treatment at the resort. Malaysian Balau is again used for the decking surrounding the spa area, where each private treatment room comes with its own pool, bath and relaxation deck. Coco Spa also features two thatched-roof yoga pavilions as well as a fully equipped fitness center, all of which are built on platforms made of Malaysian Balau.
With an emphasis on conserving the environment, the resort management is committed to maintaining Coco Palm Bodu Hithi as a natural exotic island paradise. Besides employing construction techniques that are sympathetic to the environment, the use of Malaysian timbers, all sourced from sustainable sources, has also contributed significantly towards this goal.
The Coco Palm Bodu Hithi Resort and many more luxury resorts enhanced by the use of Malaysian timber are featured in MTC's triple award-winning book "ReThink: A New Paradigm for Malaysian Timber," which showcases breathtaking projects in Malaysia, Singapore, Mauritius and the Maldives. Please email Mr. Andrew Kong (andrew@mtc.com.my) or Ms. Kuraibah Zakaria (kuraibah@mtc.com.my) if you wish to purchase a copy.
MALAYSIAN TIMBER COUNCIL
Frequently asked questions
What Malaysian timbers were used in the over-the-water villas at Coco Palm Bodu Hithi?+
The over-the-water villas feature Malaysian Kempas for the roofing structure and Meranti for the windows, complementing traditional Maldivian architectural elements such as high-pitched roofs and floor-to-ceiling windows.
What type of roofing system is used in the Coco Palm Bodu Hithi reception area?+
The reception area uses a post-and-beam roofing system made of Malaysian Merbau with Kempas trusses. The trusses form a dramatic web that culminates in an apex and is capped by a thatched roof.
What wood was used for the Stars Restaurant boardwalk at Coco Palm Bodu Hithi?+
The boardwalk leading to the Stars Restaurant and Bar, located about 100 meters out to sea, is made of Malaysian Balau. Balau is also used for the restaurant's deck.
What timber is used at the Coco Spa decking and yoga pavilions?+
Malaysian Balau is used for the decking surrounding the spa area, including each private treatment room's relaxation deck. The two thatched-roof yoga pavilions and fitness center are also built on Malaysian Balau platforms.
How does Coco Palm Bodu Hithi support environmental sustainability through its construction?+
The resort employs construction techniques sympathetic to the environment and uses Malaysian timbers sourced entirely from sustainable sources. This supports management's commitment to maintaining the resort as a natural exotic island paradise.
Where can I find more luxury resort projects built with Malaysian timber?+
Coco Palm Bodu Hithi and other luxury resorts are featured in MTC's triple award-winning book "ReThink: A New Paradigm for Malaysian Timber," which showcases projects in Malaysia, Singapore, Mauritius and the Maldives. Copies can be purchased by emailing Andrew Kong (andrew@mtc.com.my) or Kuraibah Zakaria (kuraibah@mtc.com.my).