[Architecture Magazine] Patina Maldives is Putting Sustainability First with PEFC-Certified Timber

In 2020 – for the first time in Southeast Asia – a sophisticated supply chain traceability process was used to identify the source of timber used in Singapore’s historic Changi Chapel and Museum and was the first certified Chain of Custody Project awarded in Singapore by PEFC.

Following this development, a new resort in the Fari Islands, Patina Maldives is also putting sustainability at the heart of its building work. Not only has the resort been constructed using PEFC-certified timber by Venturer Timberwork, but the onsite James Turrell Skyspace is PEFC Project Certified by Singapore-based certification body DoubleHelix Tracking Technologies.

As an added feature to boost transparency, a novel platform called Sourcemap was used to map the supply chain and graphically illustrate the flow of timber from PEFC-certified European forests to the popular Indian Ocean island. This system offers a way to leverage data collected from the audit process, provide visual and verifiable assurance that the timber has come from certified forest sources, and an opportunity to communicate the benefits of forest certification.

Patina Maldives, Fari Islands is the inaugural flagship property from the sophisticated new lifestyle brand Patina Hotels & Resorts, the latest hospitality concept by Capella Hotel Group. Designed by renowned Brazilian architect Marcio Kogan, Patina Maldives offers 90 contemporary one- to three-bedroom Beach and Water Pool Villas, alongside 20 Fari Studios, all of which embody a harmony of sanctuary and stimulation.

Darren Thomas, CEO of DoubleHelix Tracking Technologies says that the Sourcemap platform makes it possible to visualise and verify complex supply chain data, satisfying both the customer and final consumer. “With Sourcemap, anyone can follow the journey of the wood right from its source and along every step of the way,” says Mr. Thomas. “Demonstrating adherence to the highest standards of sustainable forest certification and supply chain management.”

This is most evident in the James Turrell Skyspace, a specifically proportioned chamber with an aperture in the ceiling that allows guests to immerse themselves in the sensual and spiritual perception of light. The Skyspace was designed by timber structure specialist Venturer Timberwork, a PEFC Chain of Custody certified firm based in Singapore, and engineered by Hermann Blumer.

PEFC-certified timber was used exclusively in the construction of the Skyspace and features in many other buildings in the resort. “The structure was challenging as the roof is 20m x 20m and has no internal columns or visible supports except the external trellis screen,” Kevin Hill, Director of Venturer Timberwork explains. “To add to the challenge, it has a 4m x 4m oculus or opening in the centre and all the roof edges terminate at 3mm thick.”

Marco den Ouden, General Manager, Patina Maldives, Fari Islands says: “During the construction of Patina Maldives, energy consumption was reduced by an estimated 12% through sustainable practices such as the use of prefabricated materials, which significantly reduced waste and carbon emissions when compared to conventional construction methods. Locally sourced, biodegradable and reusable materials were used wherever possible – all timber is PEFC-certified and sourced from 100% certified supply chains.” Such claims are effectively backed up with the evidence presented through Sourcemap.

Darren Thomas, CEO of DoubleHelix Tracking Technologies added: “Using PEFC project certification and Sourcemap to illustrate the journey of the wood builds market confidence in timber over other construction materials. This is especially valuable for projects with a central environmental message like the Patina Maldives. Educated consumers seek reassurance that timber is coming from well-managed forest sources, and not causing harm. It enhances the customer experience.”

SOURCE: Architecture Magazine