Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort has announced a new partnership with marine restoration specialist reefs to introduce an innovative 3D-printed reef installation within the resort’s lagoon, supporting coral regeneration and marine biodiversity in the Maldives.
The project, supported by Edelweiss and help alliance, both part of the Lufthansa Group, combines advanced reef restoration technology with nature-inspired design to strengthen the resilience of fragile coral ecosystems while creating meaningful regenerative travel experiences for guests.
‘Theyra Maa’ Brings New Life to the Lagoon
The installation features 13 flower-shaped clay reef structures known as Theyra Maa, which translates to “13 Flowers” in Dhivehi. The name symbolises renewal, growth and the flourishing of marine life within the resort’s lagoon.
The project was developed by rrreefs’ multidisciplinary team, including Co-Founder Josephine Graf, Head of Production Mauro Bischoff, Marine Ecologist Dr Julia Spaet and Dr Gerrit Nanninga, Research Fellow at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich.
The structures are designed to provide a stable environment for coral fragments, reef fish and other marine species, helping to restore healthy underwater ecosystems around the island.
Combining Science, Design and Conservation
Created using natural terracotta clay and advanced 3D-printing technology, the reef structures replicate the complexity of natural coral habitats.
According to Mauro Bischoff, the flower-inspired design creates gentle water movement that improves coral larvae settlement, while the clay’s microstructure contains tiny cavities that provide shelter and protection for young corals during their early growth stages.
The carefully engineered porosity of the material also promotes the development of beneficial biofilms that support coral settlement and contribute to a balanced marine ecosystem.
Supporting Long-Term Reef Resilience
For Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, the initiative forms part of a broader sustainability strategy focused on marine conservation and responsible tourism.
“This partnership with rrreefs is particularly exciting as it marks the organisation’s first direct collaboration with a resort,” said Oriana Migliaccio, Resident Marine Biologist at Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort. “The Theyra Maa installation combines innovative reef restoration technology with meaningful environmental action and supports coral reef recovery for future generations.”
Jason Kruse, Complex General Manager at Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, added that the project reflects the resort’s commitment to balancing luxury hospitality with environmental stewardship.
A Collaborative Approach to Ocean Protection
rrreefs was established to bring together marine science, engineering and regenerative design in the development of scalable reef restoration solutions for vulnerable coastal environments.
“The inspiration behind rrreefs comes from a deep passion for the ocean and a determination to take meaningful action against the rapid decline of coral reefs,” said Josephine Graf, Co-Founder of rrreefs. “Projects like Theyra Maa demonstrate how collaboration can help strengthen reef resilience while raising awareness of the urgent need to protect marine ecosystems.”
Edelweiss and help alliance are supporting the initiative as part of their wider commitment to sustainability and environmental education across their destination networks.
Part of a Wider Sustainability Journey
The Theyra Maa installation forms part of Anantara Dhigu’s ongoing sustainability programme and will also be accessible to guests staying at neighbouring sister properties, Anantara Veli Maldives Resort and Naladhu Private Island Maldives.
Through conservation-focused experiences and educational initiatives, the project aims to help guests connect more deeply with the destination while contributing to the protection and restoration of one of the world’s most important marine environments.
