fiji TRANSLATED

Designing a high-end beach resort often means ensuring that contemporary forms remain sympathetic to the local culture and landscape.

That's the view of architect Graham Price of Ignite Architects, who designed this ten-acre waterfront resort for Radisson in Fiji.

"I was keen to design a contemporary interpretation of Fijian vernacular architecture," says Price. "For example, the roof line of the beach restaurant is obviously local and follows a traditional angle, but is a series of interlocking forms rather than gabled."

Elsewhere, the materials, colours and pattern-making are rooted in local Fijian culture, says Price. An abstract orchid motif appears in the main reception area and is screen-printed onto the apartments' glazed balustrades. The motif references a local botanical garden that houses a large orchid collection.

At the centre of Radisson Denarau is a series of linked pools, lagoons, tropical gardens and artificial beaches, including a children's pool, adults-only pools, waterfalls and reflection ponds.

"The water amenity is crucial, as there is no coral beach nearby, and we wanted a facility for people to swim in and explore," he says. "Apartment rooms also needed a great aspect and preferably a sea view, even though the resort had a limited beach frontage."

The architect's solution was to locate the 135 three-storey apartments on the edge of the site, in a horseshoe format that opens up to the beach. Angled balconies and rooms provide diagonal views across the gardens to the sea. Each apartment has a lock-off suite, encouraging high occupancy rates, as the owners can let either the entire apartment or separate hotel suite.

For more information, contact Ignite Architects Ltd, PO Box 37853, Parnell, Auckland, phone (09) 356 4791. Website: www.ignitearchitects.com.

Story by: Trendsideas