Header: Leina Sevele
Tucked away in the heart of a tropical forest, the Nest restaurant at Niyama Private Islands Maldives literally takes dining to new heights. Designed by Drew Anderson of TOPO Design in collaboration with Poole Associates, this multi-level treehouse restaurant offers a dining experience surrounded by lush greenery and soothing sounds of nature.
The restaurant reopened in early 2024 after a stunning transformation, featuring a new design inspired by the exotic flora and fauna of the Maldives.
Dining in the treetops
Tucked amid the island’s lush jungle, Nest sits at the heart of the resort on Play Island. Guests reach it by strolling along a wooden pathway that weaves through towering trees before ascending spiral stairs and crossing bamboo-lined bridges. The entrance, shaded by a massive banyan tree, opens into a world of elevated dining platforms, interconnected wooden walkways, and thatched huts. A narrow suspension bridge leads diners to a dining pod six meters above the forest floor, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding greenery. Tables are set either amid the dense foliage on the forest floor or elevated six meters high in the treetops, offering a truly unique dining experience.
Design inspired by local flora and fauna
Nest’s design embraces sustainability, using bamboo, thatch, and wood to create structures that complement the environment rather than compete with it. The dining huts, including one with a teppan table, feature vaulted ceilings of intricate bamboo latticework, adding elegance and a sense of openness. Inside, red lacquer details and lush green furnishings give the space a distinctive Asian-inspired character with a Maldivian touch.
Asian fine dining in a magical atmosphere
Even though the setting itself is enough to visit the Nest, the restaurant is also focused on offering the best of Asian fine dining. Its curated menu highlights fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients. Whether enjoying teppanyaki on the lower level or dining in a secluded pod above, guests are treated to flavors that match the vibrancy of the surroundings.
The transformation that enhanced the ambiance
Nest’s original concept was envisioned in 2013, and after a decade of delighting visitors, the restaurant underwent a transformation to enhance its natural ambiance. Under the direction of chief engineer Michael Slevin and the resort team, the landscaping was intensified, making each table feel even more secluded within the dense foliage. At night, twinkling lights create a magical atmosphere, while subtle red accents evoke the energy of bustling Asian cities.
Recognition
This exceptional approach to restaurant design has not gone unnoticed. Nest recently won the LIV Hospitality Design Award for Interior Design in the Theme Restaurant category, recognizing its innovative architecture and immersive experience. With its bold vision and deep respect for nature, Nest is a remarkable achievement in hospitality and design.
Project info
Company/Firm: Drew Anderson of TOPO Design
Lead Designer: Drew Anderson of TOPO Design
Other Designer(s): Poole Associates
Architect: Drew Anderson of TOPO Design
Interior Designer: Poole Associates and Drew Anderson of TOPO Design
Hospitality: Minor Hotels
Construction Company: Chief engineering Michael Slevin and resort team
Photo Credit: Leina Sevele
Location: Maldives
Project Date: December 2023
Developer: Minor Hotels
