The Muraka: An Architectural Masterpiece Five Meters Below the Ocean Surface

Can a luxury residence become an integral part of an underwater ecosystem? The Muraka project, located at Rangali Island in the Maldives, proves that the boundaries of modern architecture reach much deeper than we might imagine. Opened in November 2018, the facility made history as the world's first underwater hotel suite, offering an experience of absolute unity with nature.

Two creators stand behind this extraordinary vision: New York-based architect Yuji Yamazaki and local architect Ahmed Saleem. Together, they created a two-level space that redefines the concept of leisure in the Hilton Worldwide portfolio. The upper floor offers a sun-drenched terrace and a boundless view of the ocean, but the real magic begins after descending five meters below sea level. The lower level is crowned by a spectacular bedroom with an arched, transparent acrylic dome. Instead of traditional walls, guests are surrounded by the vibrant bottom of the Indian Ocean – schools of tropical fish, stingrays, and a natural coral reef.

The realization of this concept required unprecedented engineering precision. The underwater part of the structure, weighing a massive 540 metric tons, was built entirely in Singapore. This massive monolith was then transported by a specialized ship across the open ocean straight to Maldivian waters. To protect the residence from the destructive force of ocean currents and waves, engineers anchored it to the ocean floor using ten massive concrete piles. The total construction cost of this bold investment reached 15 million US dollars.

Today, The Muraka represents the quintessen[11:17 PM]ce of ultra-modern hospitality. It is not just an exclusive suite with private service, but above all, a monument of engineering courage, where futuristic design meets the mesmerizing calm of the ocean depths.