Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
GEOFFREY BAWA - 'BRINGING POETRY TO PLACE'
The most famous of Sri Lanka's architects, Geoffrey Bawa (1919-2003) fused ancient
and modern influences in his work. Architect Ranjith Dayaratne described it as 'bringing
poetry to place'.
Using courtyards and pathways, Bawa developed pleasing connections between the in-
terior and exterior of his structures. These connections frequently included contemplat-
ive spaces, as well as framed areas that enabled glimpses of spaces yet to be entered.
His designs were based within the environment. And he was not averse to the environ-
ment claiming his structures - at times he encouraged jungle growth along walls and
roofs.
While Bawa created aesthetic beauty, he was also concerned with the functional as-
pects of architecture, opening and exposing structures to air and light while ensuring
shelter and protection from harsh climatic elements. His approach was important not
only for its originality but also for its influence on architecture in Sri Lanka and abroad.
Bawa's work outside Colombo includes the landmark Heritance Kandalama Hotel near
Dambulla. In Colombo, don't miss the following:
Gallery Cafe The historic building used to be Bawa's office and is now used as an exhibi-
tion space for art and photography.
Seema Malakaya Meditation Centre A gem-like space on an island on South Beira Lake.
Geoffrey Bawa House The house where Bawa once lived is now a museum.
Parliament of Sri Lanka ( GOOGLE MAP ; www.parliament.lk ; Kotte;admission by prior arrange-
ment) Bawa's grand masterpiece is located on a lake island in Kotte, 11km southeast of
Fort.
Sleeping
Like many other aspects of life in the capital, the accommodation scene in Colombo is
awakening from a long slumber. New top-end hotels with names like Hyatt and Shangri-
La are being built and older ones refurbished. Luxurious boutique hotels are proliferating
in the city's leafier neighbourhoods and there's a new selection of high-quality midrange
places.
Amid this new hostelry energy, some older properties continue to limp along on past
glories. Fort and Galle Rd in particular have shabby hotels that are little changed - or im-
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