An exotic island paradise
PROJECT Sandy Waves Resort, Swaraj Dweep ( Havelock Island), Andaman & Nicobar Islands ARCHITECTS Oscar & Ponni Architects, Chennai
The island architecture project for Sandy Waves Resort has been one of my favourites, in terms of setting, climatology and contextual design. The brief was to create a very contextual style of architecture that evokes the local culture, and yet, provides a contemporary feel to the end- user.
Havelock Island, which was renamed as Swaraj Dweep, is one of the largest and most famous of the group of islands that constitute the Andaman Islands. Virtually unknown for centuries, it was discovered in the 18th century by the British. Initially, Havelock was exclusively inhabited by the tribal natives, but post- Independence, it was
opened to mainland settlers as well. With majestic golden beaches surrounded by dense forests, and glimmering blue waters housing beautiful coral reefs, the island is one of the most exquisite locales in the world.
Located in such a gorgeous location, Sandy Waves Resort is an exotic example of tropical modernism and ethnic island architecture— with expansive open spaces, local materials, and focus on ventilation and cooling factors. Set along a private beachfront, the resort offers endless views of the sea from multiple perspectives. The main building, guest room blocks and honeymoon cottages, all surround a central open space with a swimming pool, landscape areas and pathways leading to the sea. The main building comprises the lobby and restaurant with a deck bar, and guest rooms above. The boutique resort offers 36 luxury keys, divided into three categories, namely eight premium rooms, 22 superior rooms, and six family suite rooms.
The sloping wood- framed roof is covered with metal roofing sheets, typical to local Andaman architecture. The slopes are accentuated with Dormer windows. The sloping roof with steep upward inclinations, bounded by wooden eaves are a reflection of traditional island architecture. With well- connected building envelopes intertwined with free- flowing open spaces, the circulation allows for great ventilation. The focus is also on eco- friendly natural and local materials, and the design makes ample use of wood, granite and other natural stones.
The buildings are designed in an angular
formation, keeping in mind the weather conditions of the site. The guest room blocks have a splayed shape, and the design allows better air circulation, while also protecting the buildings from excess damage during cyclones. The lobby is designed to be the guest’s first experience of the beach resort. It emulates the elements of the sea to create a sense of arrival among the guests, offering uninterrupted views of the beach the moment the guest steps in. Ethnic wall murals and red granite cladding set
against white walls, give the resort a rich look.
Wood is the basic material. The carved wooden frieze, fascia, balustrades and columns provide an ethnic look to the buildings. The wooden lattice screen walls, around the exterior of the buildings, create interesting partitions between spaces. The interior design is also a symphony of different types of locallysourced wood, used for the wall paneling, ceiling design, artefacts, decorative lighting and furniture.
All guest rooms and cottages have private outdoor patios facing the sea, providing the guests a magnificent vista. The site includes landscape areas and pathways connecting various spaces. The landscape areas have diverse flora that are indigenous to the island. The swimming pool with the sunken bar add to the unique experiences for the guests. The immense pool showcases the reflection of the resort. The landscape aims to create a pleasant interaction between the guests and the environment. Overall, the architecture is a unique combination of built versus unbuilt spaces, which offer the visitor a definitive experience in an exotic island locale.