Set in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius reveals its rich heritage through its architecture, where European-influenced architecture meets Creole, Indian, African and Asian influences. From colourful temples to stately French homes, the architecture of Mauritius mirrors the island’s multicultural and multilingual makeup. Visitors can stay in Villanovo villas that embrace this history, with details like thatched roofs and sweeping verandas that take advantage of the island's mild climate.
Expressed in a rich fusion of styles, materials and traditions, Mauritian architecture tells the story of Mauritius as a meeting point between Africa, Asia and Europe. Historic colonial buildings, Creole homes and religious monuments sit alongside contemporary designs shaped by the island’s growing tourism industry. While many new developments are built in concrete, Mauritius still preserves a strong architectural heritage that reflects its varied cultural past. Buildings are carefully designed for tropical light, cool breezes and comfort in humid weather. Their wide verandas, high ceilings and shaded terraces support the relaxed, open way of living in this island.
The history of Mauritius architecture reflects a rich Creole and colonial heritage shaped by its complex past. Mauritius' original inhabitants built simple huts with palm leaves before French settlers introduced more structured forms, erecting elegant government buildings such as the Château de Labourdonnais. Later, British influence added further refinement carefully adapted to island life. 19th-century homes from the colonial era feature large wooden verandas known as varangue and lofty ceilings to live comfortably in the warm, humid climate.
Religious influences in Mauritius architecture reflect the coexistence of diverse cultures. After the abolition of slavery, Indian workers came to labour in the sugarcane fields. They brought traditions that later shaped sites such as the Hindu temples at Grand Bassin, a crater lake near Black River Gorges Park adorned with colourful statues of deities and temples. In Port Louis, the Jummah Masjid mosque, dating to the 1850s, blends Indian, Creole and Islamic influences. Catholic churches showcase varied European architectural styles, while Chinese pagodas and rainbow Tamil temples add striking vibrancy to the island’s spiritual landscape.
In Mauritius, tropical architectural homes are shaped by a close dialogue between nature and architecture. Contemporary villas blend seamlessly into their surroundings, using local materials such as volcanic stone, wood and basalt to create sustainable comfort in the island’s tropical climate. Architects prioritise large windows, open spaces and fluid indoor–outdoor living to welcome light, sea air and garden views. Natural ventilation is enhanced through high ceilings and thoughtful orientation, while wide verandas become extensions of the living space, offering shade and a constant connection to the landscape.
Craftsmanship and local materials lie at the heart of Mauritius architecture, where architects draw on resources such as timber from the island’s lush forests. Local expertise in wrought iron, carved wood and palm thatching reflects generations of skill passed down through families. Across the islands of the Indian Ocean, the varangue—the typical gallery of Creole architecture—adorns the front façades of many homes, creating shaded, welcoming spaces. Today, artisans continue to preserve ancestral know-how while minimising environmental impact through green roofs, rainwater harvesting systems and solar panels. Pick up a souvenir that celebrates Mauritius craftsmanship at the craft market in Port Louis.
Villanovo offers a wide range of luxury villas with private pools, direct beach access, house staff, and private chefs or cooks. Design enthusiasts can choose an architect-designed home for a stylish holiday while families will appreciate large homes that are ideal for group gatherings.
Our villas are set in prime locations around Mauritius, including Grand Baie, Trou d’Eau Douce, Bel Ombre, Belle Mare, Anahita, and Flic en Flac.
Thanks to Villanovo's concierge service, every stay becomes an exclusive experience. Enjoy plenty of services that are organised to your wishes, like exclusive boat tours, childcare, private yoga classes, and family-friendly activities like snorkelling and paddleboarding. Our local experts provide recommendations for restaurants, activities, and things to do during your holiday in Mauritius.
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