Decorative item
A bold facelift for an existing retail building facade in Matale, Sri Lanka
Inspired by traditional Sri Lankan lacquer techniques, the facade design was reproduced on cement tiles.
The team at KWA Architects took on the challenge of giving an existing retail building in Matale a completely new and exciting identity, honouring the town’s rich heritage as part of the Kandyan Kingdom. Matale was particularly known for its lacquer work using distinct colours and patterns. îlot Colombo replicated these traditional designs on cement tiles that were then pasted on to the building facade. The design draws inspiration from the Ādārakoṇḍu motif found in traditional Sri Lankan lacquer work, a pattern of plain lines perpendicular to the shaft’s length that elegantly divide other motifs. This timeless decoration informed the bold, sleek vertical lines of the façade, framing diamond motifs within. A vibrant palette of vermillion red (sādiliṅgham), orpiment yellow (hiriyal), black (kalu-pāta) creates a striking yet harmonious presence, celebrating both tradition and contemporary design. These geometric patterns were easily replicated onto cement tiles. Architecture & Interior Design: KWA Architects / Project team: Thilan Koththigoda, Thushari Wijesundara, Jayamalie Gunaratne, Satkunarajah Jenushan, Gayashi Pathirana, Ranushka Fernando / Photography: Ganidu Balasuriya
