Banyan Tree Resort

Banyan Tree Corniche Bay,
La Gaulette, Mauritius
2006
Client: Corniche Bay/Tatorio Holdings Ltd.
Architects: Foster + Partners, Jean Michel d’Unienville & Associates Architects Ltd
Landscape Architects: Newton Landscape Architects

The masterplan is for a discreet and environmentally intelligent architecture that blends harmoniously with the lush and extensive landscape. Green fingers of lush vegetation extend down towards the sea, with a series of contemporary buildings inserted amid tropical plantings to create an architecture that at once responds to the contours of the landscape and recedes into the green totality.

On the mountainside, a cluster of elegant villas are discreetly inserted into the vegetation. With panoramic views over the Indian Ocean they balance privacy with a sense of community.

The concept evolved from a single line that is the starting point for the dynamic curves that categorise the scheme. Drawing with this single straight line, we created a language of curves that enliven the design and recall the organic forms of the lush setting of Mauritius.

The design of the interiors celebrates outdoor and island living. characterized by the use of natural materials that echo those found on the site, the design concept creates a holistic experience without any division between the exterior and interior spaces.

The architect’s philosophy of intergration was a big influence on this development, which is designed to fit perfectly into its natural environment, seamlessly blending into its spectacular surroundings as attractively as possible. Attention to detail is paramount, with every aspect of the development carefully designed to be as ecologically sound, culturally relevant, and aesthetically pleasing as possible. Luxury becomes a self sustaining quality with the use of local materials, and high efficient energy systems incorprated into the design.

The resort is due for completion in 2011.