W MALDIVES

W Maldives in the Indian Ocean is a million miles from anywhere. Starwood approached Corlette to help launch the Group’s first luxury Retreat & Spa in the Maldives. W Retreat & Spa Maldives is a private, boutique resort located in North Ari Atoll on the exclusive island of Fesdu. The Retreat & Spa’s philosophy is one of quiet contemplation, where you can escape convention and completely unwind. Our challenge was to deliver a way-finding, signage and brand package in tune with this philosophy and sympathetic to the resort’s tropical location.

Inspired by the natural surroundings, crystal blue waters, white-sandy beaches, and the sand in between our toes, the creative concept of Barefoot luxury came to life. Our approach to the signage and wayfinding is, quite literally, from a very different angle. A bespoke font was developed and featured in directional messages, embedded within the sand, alongside island pathways. The copper studded lettering, over time, has beautifully oxidized changing to an exotic aqua that echoes the turquoise lagoon. Barefoot luxury is also carried through into the Spa, and Food & Beverage facilities where you will find signage inlaid on overwater boardwalks. Room numbers and directional signage are designed to seamlessly integrate into the landscape overwater, beach and island villas.