Best Resort
Chris Wise
W Maldives
by Eco-id, Ed Poole, and W Design
landscape architecture by Belt Collins Singapore
This contemporary South Seas resort has 78 tented overwater villas, vast expanses of curving decks, and oversize chairs made of driftwood, all wide open to stunning beach and ocean views. The structures on the private island mix traditional Maldivian elements with modern materials, and the overall layout is meant to encourage community interaction, with an emphasis on public spaces (not that each villa doesn't come with its own infinity pool). This is straightforward, youthful design, and it's hugely appealing.
"W chose an extraordinary site and utilized it optimally." —Craig Robins
Honorable Mention
Amanyara, Turks and Caicos, by Jean-Michel Gathy, Denniston International Architects
Address Book
W Maldives
Fesdu Island, North Ari Atoll; 877/946-8357 or 011-960/666-2222; www.whotels.com; doubles from $1,560.
Amanyara
Northwest Point, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos; 866/941-8133 or 649/941-8132; www.amanresorts.com; pavilions from $1,350.
