A Culinary Haven in the Maldives by Atelier Nomadic and Olav Bruin

In the grand tapestry of human history, tales of oceanic wonders have been woven by intrepid explorers, sailors, and seafarers. From biblical leviathans to colossal squids grappling with the Nautilus and Moby Dick’s relentless pursuit of the Pequod, these mythical sea creatures have become enduring elements in maritime tales, nautical charts, and our collective imagination.

Periodically, these legendary beings surface, and recently, a serene tropical lagoon in the Maldives became the stage for one such gentle giant. Within the creature’s belly, beneath a captivating bamboo ribcage, a select few can now indulge in fine Japanese cuisine, courtesy of the innovative design of the overwater Yakitori Restaurant and Bar by Atelier Nomadic.

The inspiration for this exceptional dining experience arose from the desire to transform the existing jetty structure at Banyan Tree Vabinfaru into an iconic destination. Drawing from the sleek form of Pink Whiprays (Pateobatis fai) that gracefully roam the adjacent lagoon, the bio-climatic structure boasts natural ventilation, a sea saltwater infinity pool, and overwater catamaran nets. Here, guests can unwind against a backdrop of breathtaking sunset panoramas, gently caressed by the sea breeze.

Crafted meticulously with bamboo, the structure seamlessly integrates with the Maldivian landscape, casting a captivating reflection in the mirror-like lagoon. The shingled tail gracefully extends down the jetty, linking the building to the mainland while serving as a guide for visitors.

Embodying the Dhivehi language, where “Madi” symbolizes “ray” and “Hiyaa” conveys “shelter,” the building aptly bears the name Madi Hiyaa, paying homage to the graceful rays migrating across the Indian Ocean.

The bamboo-centric roof, a marvel of biomimicry, underscores Atelier Nomadics’ commitment to showcasing the potential of this remarkable building material. As a Bamboo Ambassador at the World Bamboo Organization, lead architect Olav Bruin aims to emphasize bamboo’s crucial role in steering the building industry toward a sustainable future. Bamboo, being one of the fastest-growing renewable building materials globally, stands as a potent carbon sink, aligning with the imperative for buildings to sequester carbon.

Defined by hyperbolic paraboloid columns and roof trusses, the structure mirrors the endoskeleton of the Mobulidae family. Dendrocalamus Asper bamboo forms the primary structure, while the smaller Gigantochloa Apus bamboo fills the grid, and the roof is elegantly clad with timber shingles, completing the stunning fusion of nature-inspired design and architectural ingenuity.