Sandyy Wavess, RCS Beach Resort

Havelock Island- recently renamed Swaraj Dweep- is one of the largest and most culturally significant islands in the Andaman archipelago. Once home exclusively to indigenous tribes, the island opened to settlers after the Partition and has since evolved into a globally sought-after tropical destination. Nestled along its pristine coastline, Sandyy Wavess Resort stands as a refined example of tropical modernism blended seamlessly with ethnic island architecture. With its private beachfront and thoughtfully curated vistas, the resort offers uninterrupted views of the sea from multiple vantage points, enveloping guests in an atmosphere of serene luxury. The architectural language of the resort is rooted in the cultural nuances of the island while simultaneously embracing contemporary sensibilities. The design prioritizes eco-friendly practices, relying extensively on local and natural materials to create a breathable, climate-responsive environment. Building envelopes are interconnected through fluid, open spaces that ensure seamless circulation and optimal cross-ventilation. Materials such as wood, granite and locally sourced stone set the tone for the built environment, establishing a harmonious dialogue with the natural landscape. A defining feature of the resort is its sloping wood-framed roof clad with metal roofing sheets- an architectural detail characteristic of Andaman’s vernacular tradition. These slopes, enhanced with dormer windows and bordered by wooden eaves, give the structures their distinctive identity. The colour palette remains soft and organic, dominated by whites, warm browns and gentle beiges. Together with curvilinear landscape contours and the glass-fronted restaurant, these elements evoke a balanced blend of tropical heritage and modern design cues. The resort’s spatial planning is anchored around a central open area featuring a swimming pool, lush landscape zones and pathways that connect directly to the sea. The main building includes the lobby, a restaurant and an elevated deck bar, with guest rooms situated above. In total, the boutique property houses 36 luxury keys divided into three categories- eight premium rooms, twenty-two superior rooms and six family suites- each offering comfort, spaciousness and an immersive connection to the island’s surroundings. Given the climatic conditions of Swaraj Dweep, the guest room blocks are designed in angular, splayed formations that soften sharp edges. This strategic approach improves air circulation while minimizing structural stress during cyclones, ensuring resilience as well as comfort. Traditional aesthetics are infused into the architecture through red granite cladding, carved wooden friezes, ornate balustrades and column detailing. Wooden lattice screens create visually interesting partitions and reinforce the ethnic identity of the resort. Every room and cottage includes a private sea-facing patio, while expansive windows usher in natural light and frame panoramic views. The resort’s landscaped pathways and indigenous vegetation compose a lush tapestry that enhances the built environment. The dramatic pool mirrors the architecture and sky, symbolizing the resort’s harmonious interplay of built and unbuilt spaces- offering guests an unforgettable experience amid an exotic island setting.