When the late Geoffrey Manning Bawa entered the world of architecture, he made his mark with every design he produced. Exploring modernism and its cultural implications, he created unique designs that were recognized by architects across the world. The result of these works made him the principal force behind the global concept of “tropical modernism”.As Sri Lanka’s most influential architect, Sir Bawa built houses, hotels, schools, offices and government buildings including the Sri Lankan Parliament Building. In this day tour, we will show you around some of his brilliant works (in Colombo and along the southern coast) that are still intact about 15 years after his passing.
1 day
Daily Tour
English
6 people
In 1979, Geoffrey Bawa was summoned by the then President JR Jayawardana who commissioned him to design a new Parliament on the spot. With the proposed location at Kotte, Bawa’s idea was to have the new Parliament sit atop an island amidst an artificial lake. A symmetrical debating chamber followed the design of the Palace of Westminster. The symmetry was broken with the central pavilion being divided into 5 ancillary pavilions, each with its own copper roof. The entrance of the Parliament boasted a pair of massive silver doors opening to reveal a grand staircase leading to the floor of the House.
Once upon a time, the office of Geoffrey Bawa, is now transformed into one of the leading restaurants in Colombo. The symbols of his brand remain strong here – open pavilions, courtyards with pillars, ponds and walkways. In addition to providing a unique dining experience, The Gallery Café is also an art gallery where the creative talents of young artists are exhibited.
A director of Aitken Spence [Hotels] was lucky enough to have his house designed by one of the world’s most celebrated architect. Hidden behind a high screen wall, the entrance opens into a long corridor, once again featuring open spaces and courtyards. Three bedrooms, a garage, a kitchen, a study and a rooftop terrace is incorporated in contemporary style. The housewas constructed in 1979 and was carefully restored recently by the owner’s son.
Bawa was commissioned to design the main office and other buildings at the steel mills in the 1960s. One of the highlights here is the 3-storey office building which was designed in a manner to be protected from direct sunshine yet filled with light and air. Bawa also elegantly designed the staff housing scheme with interesting entrances for each building as well as a walled courtyard garden.
The residence of Geoffrey Bawa is an architectural marvel where art and artifacts from his collection are displayed. Within this residence are two bedrooms on the 1st floor which are attached and share one bathroom and a sitting room. The 3rd floor is a verandah and the 4th is an open viewing deck. Only one party can rent out the rooms at a time and this residence is also open for public viewing only by appointment.
A beautiful garden retreat in Bentota – a piece of work that Bawa cherished throughout his life and continued to develop for about 50 years. It was one of his personal projects which turned in to a boutique hotel and is now a dream fantasy for many to have the opportunity to stay in one of the lovely suites here.
Day Tour of Colombo Colombo is the bustling capital city of Sri Lanka and is a hub for visiting beaches in the south of the island. Its history involves successive rulings by the Portuguese, Dutch and British, and it was a major port on the east-west trade routes during that era. This ancient heritage reflects […]
1 day
6 people
Little England Day Tour Nuwara Eliya, also known as Sri Lanka’s “Little England”, is the prime hill resort of the country. At a height of approximately 2000m above sea level, the city has an abundance of lush tea plantations and jaw dropping scenery. Its nickname comes from the many English style bungalows and buildings still […]
1 day
6 people
Kandy Day Tour Kandy, more popularly known as the hill capital of Sri Lanka, is an attractive tourist destination. Its history dates back to the 15th century, when it was the last royal capital of the country. The city is 115km from Colombo and is the second biggest city in Sri Lanka. Kandy has an […]
1 day
6 people
Belihuloya Day Tour Belihuloya is a charming hillside village located in the Sabaragamuwa Province, Ratnapura District, about 160kms away from Colombo. The fortunate geographical location of Belihuloya links the wet and dry zones of the island at an altitude of less than 1500m. As a result, visitors will see a rare blend of semi-evergreen forests, […]
1day
6 people
