Underwater Interiors: Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Showcases Villas Above and Below Sea Level

Designed by Yuji Yamazaki, principal of Yuji Yamazaki Architecture, the Muraka at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is the world’s first underwater villa.

Check out this 6,000-square-foot private underwater oasis. The three-bedroom, two-story Muraka features a master bedroom submerged over 16 feet below sea level in the Indian Ocean, enclosed in a 180-degree curved acrylic dome. The villa also has additional bedrooms and a sprawling living space just above the surface of the ocean.

With integrated indoor/outdoor living and dining, the Muraka is ideal for families, small groups, and retreats. From its underwater master bedroom suite, guests have the chance to sleep beneath the ocean for an otherworldly aquatic experience.

From Sea to Sand: Revamping the Resort on Land

For the hotel’s 25th anniversary, and the destination’s 50th, the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island plans has debuted its Grand Relaunch in February after an expansive multimillion-dollar refurbishment. The resort will see significant enhancements this year, including 50 refreshed overwater villas, renovated bars and restaurants, expanded facilities, and a revamped overwater spa.

Yamazaki will continue collaboration on the villas to showcase impeccable design capabilities that put a spotlight on the natural environment above all else. The updated villas demonstrate the resort’s signature style of simplicity and laidback luxury through clean lines and muted tones that emphasize the breathtaking surrounding landscape.

Offering a minimalist aesthetic, the interior design gives the space a natural, bright, and airy feel intended to focus on the beauty just outside of the villa. Neutral hues and natural textures come together to highlight the stunning azure blues of the surrounding South Ari Atoll, and an open floor plan structure offers unparalleled views from every room.

Exposed beams and matching wooden ceiling fans in the space are layered with various woodwork throughout, augmenting the feeling of openness and elevating the classic Maldivian overwater villa, which originated at the hotel. Large mirrors are used throughout to maximize light and reflect the gorgeous scenery.