Geoffrey Bawa - Architectural Legacy

About Geoffrey Bawa

Geoffrey Manning Bawa (1919-2003) was Sri Lanka's most influential architect and the principal force behind what is today known globally as "tropical modernism".

Born to a wealthy family of mixed European and Sri Lankan descent, Bawa studied English at Cambridge and law in London before returning to Sri Lanka. It was only at age 28 that he discovered his true vocation and returned to England to study architecture at the Architectural Association in London.

Bawa's work seamlessly blends modern architecture with traditional Sri Lankan forms, responding to the local climate and culture. His designs are characterized by their sensitivity to site, use of natural ventilation, integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, and innovative use of local materials.

His most famous works include the Parliament of Sri Lanka, the Kandalama Hotel, Lunuganga garden, and numerous private residences that have become icons of tropical architecture.

Architectural Masterpieces

Lunuganga Garden

Bentota, Sri Lanka

Bawa's country estate, transformed from a rubber plantation into a magnificent garden that became his lifelong project.

Sri Lankan Parliament

Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte

An iconic building situated on an island, representing a fusion of modern architecture with traditional Sri Lankan elements.

Kandalama Hotel

Dambulla, Sri Lanka

A hotel that appears to emerge from the jungle, with its facade covered in vegetation, blending architecture with nature.

Number 11

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Bawa's own residence in Colombo, created by combining four small bungalows into a single sprawling home.

Blue Water Hotel

Wadduwa, Sri Lanka

A beachfront hotel that exemplifies Bawa's ability to create spaces that harmonize with their coastal environment.

Ruhunu University

Matara, Sri Lanka

A campus design that responds to the tropical climate while creating inspiring educational spaces.

Life & Career Timeline

1919

Born in Colombo, Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) to a wealthy family of mixed European and Sri Lankan descent.

1938-1947

Studied English at Cambridge University and law in London, qualified as a barrister.

1948

Returned to Ceylon and discovered his passion for architecture while traveling through Europe.

1951-1957

Studied architecture at the Architectural Association in London, graduating at age 38.

1958

Joined the practice of Edwards, Reid and Begg in Colombo and began work on Lunuganga.

1959

Established his own architectural practice in Colombo.

1960s

Developed his signature style, creating numerous private residences that blended modernism with local traditions.

1979-1982

Designed and built the Sri Lankan Parliament building in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte.

1990s

Created several iconic hotels including Kandalama Hotel, which became a benchmark for eco-sensitive architecture.

2003

Passed away in Colombo at the age of 83, leaving behind a profound architectural legacy.

Learn More

Geoffrey Bawa Trust

No. 11, 33rd Lane
Bagatelle Road
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka

Publications

Several books available documenting Bawa's work and philosophy.

Visit Sites

Many of Bawa's creations are open to visitors, including Lunuganga and Number 11.