The Nautilus Maldives, a family-founded ultra-luxury retreat in the Indian Ocean, has partnered with ecoBirdy, a Belgian design brand celebrated for its eco-conscious and socially responsible creations. This collaboration has transformed the Young Wonderers children’s club and The Nautilus Lounge at Velana International Airport, introducing sustainable, child-friendly furniture made from recycled plastic toys.
Founded in 2018 by Vanessa Yuan and Joris Vanbriel, ecoBirdy emerged from a European Commission-backed project to recycle discarded plastic toys. Their innovative process collects old toys, recycles them into ecothylene®—a 100% recycled and recyclable material—and crafts them into ergonomic, modern furniture designed for children’s comfort and independence. Each piece features thoughtful details like easy-to-grip surfaces, fostering creativity and autonomy in young users.
At The Nautilus, these ecoBirdy designs now define the children’s spaces, blending style, sustainability, and functionality. From the airport lounge to the Young Wonderers club, the furniture creates an inviting environment that encourages imagination while promoting environmental stewardship.
Joris Vanbriel, ecoBirdy’s co-founder, emphasized the shared vision: “Luxury today means caring for future generations. With The Nautilus, we’re inspiring young explorers through sustainable design.” Vanessa Yuan added, “Design can spark change. This partnership nurtures creativity and a sense of responsibility in children.”
Adan Gomez, General Manager of The Nautilus Maldives, echoed this sentiment: “Our collaboration with ecoBirdy reflects our commitment to authenticity, creativity, and the planet. These spaces delight our youngest guests while aligning with our values of timeless hospitality.”
This initiative underscores The Nautilus’s ethos of freedom and thoughtful living, weaving a message into every child’s experience: true luxury lies in caring for the world around us.