Living at SJ Dhihereya: a day on the lagoon side of Hulhumalé

Many of Hulhumalé's new apartment buildings sell a view of the sea. SJ Dhihereya Residence sells a view of the lagoon, and on this side of the island that is a different thing: one of the busiest stretches of water around Malé.

The view from the window

The building stands on the western edge of Hulhumalé Phase 1, looking across the lagoon towards Malé. From the lagoon-facing homes you see the island's working life:

• ships heading in and out of the port;
• ferries running between Hulhumalé and the capital;
• aircraft lifting off from Velana International Airport.

It is a moving picture rather than an empty horizon. Because the building faces west, it also gets the sunset over the water every evening, which on the eastern, beach side of Hulhumalé you have to walk to.

City-facing homes look back over the streets of Phase 1. Their outlook is closer and quieter, and on the list they are priced a little lower per square foot.

A weekday, door to door

• Morning. The Hulhumalé Ferry Terminal is close by for the crossing to Malé, and the bridge route by bus or car is the alternative. For anyone flying for work, the airport is minutes away rather than a crossing away.
• School run. Phase 1 is the most established part of Hulhumalé, so schools, mosques and supermarkets are spread through the neighbourhood rather than clustered in one place.
• Evening. Central Park is the island's green space for a walk, a run or a playground. For a swim or dinner, the public beach and the cafés along the eastern shore are on the other side of the island.
• Health. Tree Top Hospital is among the healthcare facilities nearby, which matters to young families and older parents alike.

Inside the building

The shared spaces suit a household that spends evenings at home:

• an infinity pool and a common terrace for the sunset hour;
• a gym;
• basement parking, 24-hour security and a garbage chute on every floor.

Who it suits

• Families wanting a three-bedroom, or a 3+1 with its extra room. Together they make up more than half the building.
• Professionals who fly often, or who work at the airport, the port or the ferry terminal.
• Buyers who want the lagoon outlook and a sunset from their own balcony.

It suits less well anyone who wants beach mornings on the doorstep (the beach is across the island), or a home before 2029: the developer expects completion at the end of 2028.

The honest caveat

A view across these waters brings their sound too: engines, ferries and aircraft. If you are sensitive to it, ask to see a finished home at a similar height on this side of Hulhumalé before you commit. The concierge can suggest finished buildings on the lagoon side worth seeing first.