The Bungalow
Location- Nawala, Sri Lanka
Category- Residential
Client- Archt. Mihindu Keerthiratne
1992: SLIA Design Awards – Merit – Personalized House
The owner envisioned a bungalow that would serve as a serene retreat, offering respite from the demands of daily life while fostering quality time with family. The site itself possesses an extraordinary character—unexpectedly tranquil and lush amidst the densely populated suburban fabric. Situated on a 9-acre plot bordering a branch of the Diyawanna Oya, the property is rich with verdant greenery and features a natural pond that has been meticulously preserved even after construction.
A dramatic driveway winds through the shade of mature Naa and Ehela trees, offering a seasonal interplay of blooms and filtered light. The entrance, oriented towards the pond adorned with water lilies, creates a striking visual axis.
The house plan features a dynamic interplay of geometries, with a rotated inner square nested diagonally within an outer square. This creates angular relationships between the two forms, resulting in striking corner extensions and compressed edges
The twisted inner square acts as the core of the design, while the outer square provides a spatial framework that balances the tension between orthogonal and diagonal axes. This composition generates unique spatial zones and opportunities for light penetration, circulation flow, and visual contrasts between enclosed and open areas. A double-height entryway enhances the sense of grandeur, setting the tone for a residence that harmonizes with its surroundings while offering moments of quiet elegance and retreat. This design element anchors the spatial composition, fostering a seamless connection between the architecture and nature. The sitting and dining areas are oriented to maximize expansive views of the garden, framed by the majestic Para Mara trees, offering a tranquil backdrop that enhances the living experience. The space invites one to sit and reflect for hours, offering a therapeutic ambiance that effortlessly dissolves the stresses of daily life. An interpolated square at the center of the house creates a striking feature—a serene pond nestled within the heart of the central void and a sky light above.
The upper floors are dedicated to private spaces, including a spacious master bedroom and two junior master suites, each offering sweeping views of the verdant canopies of mature trees. Materiality plays a pivotal role in the project, with the external façade clad in well-fired bricks, lending the house a warm, textured character. Internally, most surfaces are plastered and finished in crisp white, enhancing the sense of openness while creating a soothing visual effect. The design exhibits a deliberate use of geometry, evident in the configuration of the openings, echoing the unique plan form. The bungalow emerges as a sculptural entity, thoughtfully positioned within its lush green surroundings—an unexpected oasis in a densely populated suburban area.
