Hospitality / Resort & Marina Development

Vivanta Rebak Island Resort represents a unique, secluded destination resort situated on its own private 390-acre island within the Langkawi archipelago. The development comprises spacious timber chalets, a fully equipped marina, multiple dining options, and recreational facilities, all integrated into the island's lush tropical landscape.

D+DM provided project management and design coordination support for a significant refurbishment and repositioning phase, ensuring the resort maintained its competitive edge, enhanced guest experience, and aligned with the Vivanta brand standards.

Context

Originally developed in the early 1990s, the resort occupies the entirety of Rebak Island, offering unparalleled privacy and exclusivity. Its key components include sea-facing timber accommodation units and one of Langkawi's only fully-serviced marinas. The need arose for a comprehensive refurbishment to modernise facilities, refresh the accommodation, and align the property with the contemporary Vivanta by Taj brand identity, while respecting the resort's established character and sensitive island environment.

Approach

D+DM’s project management approach focused on meticulously planning and executing the phased refurbishment across the island resort. This involved coordinating upgrades to guest chalets, public areas (lobby, restaurants, pool), spa facilities, and potentially marina infrastructure. Key considerations included managing complex logistics for materials and labour to the island location, minimising disruption to ongoing hotel operations, ensuring high-quality finishes, and integrating modern amenities and technology seamlessly within the existing timber structures.

Result

The refurbishment successfully revitalised Vivanta Rebak Island Resort, enhancing its appeal as a premier luxury destination in Langkawi. Upgraded facilities and refreshed interiors improved the overall guest experience, while the operational continuity maintained revenue streams. The project reinforced the resort's unique offering, balancing modern comforts with the natural tranquility and exclusivity of its private island setting, ensuring its continued success in a competitive market.

Project Data

Location: Rebak Island, Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia Client: (Owner likely Tradewinds Corporation Berhad / Managed by IHCL) Type: Hospitality / Resort & Marina Development Scale: Approx. 94 Rooms/Suites, Marina, 390-acre Island Completion: Original c. early 1990s / Refurbishment phases ongoing (e.g., c. 2011 rebranding) Services: Project Management, Design Coordination (Refurbishment Phase)

Collaborators

Architect (Original): (Information not publicly available) Architect/Designer (Refurbishment): (Various / Information not publicly available) Operator: IHCL (Vivanta / Taj Group) Owner: Tradewinds Corporation Berhad (Reported) Builder (Refurbishment): (Information not publicly available)

Reflection

The Vivanta Rebak Island Resort refurbishment demonstrates D+DM’s capability in managing logistically complex upgrades for operational island resorts. The project exemplifies the firm’s strength in coordinating phased renovations, ensuring quality execution, and balancing brand requirements with the unique character and environmental constraints of a sensitive location.