The August – October 2025 issue of the Magazine
Conceived as a two unit residence with ground floor design studio in clay bricks and upper floor 2 bedroom unit in fly ash bricks, this multi-purpose flexible-two unit residence has paved the way for the owner architect to rent the ground floor design studio, temporary converted to a 2 bedroom annex, when work became a trickle of what it used to be, during the difficult days of Sri Lanka’s economic crisis 2022.
The architects sought to challenge traditional construction methodologies, showcasing novel techniques such as steel skeletal frameworks and precast slab and beam construction developed by the National Engineering Research Department (NERD) of Sri Lanka. The intention was to harmoniously blend thoughtful design with practical use of new technologies. Architects of the project were interested in exploring how to challenge conventional building construction techniques. An attempt to showcase novel new technologies such as steel structural skeletal frameworks and pre-cast pre-stressed slab & beam construction (National Engineering Research Department developed slab & beam construction methods) and relied on thoughtful design. The steel framework and precast elements build contemporary living spaces alongside tranquil outdoor gardens. The robust external materials are textured and rustic, keying into low maintenance and natural aesthetics. Most materials remain unfinished to allow for natural weathering, reducing the need for frequent upkeep.
The choice of materials is crucial to ensuring that the home blends harmoniously with its environment. The use of raw clay and Fly Ash bricks emphasizes texture and complements the landscape, creating a tactile building envelope that serves as a backdrop for lush vegetation. Drawing inspiration from its natural setting, the material selection is deliberately understated; uncoated surfaces and textured finishes impart a sense of understated warmth. A flourishing garden and an established Mahogany tree provide shade for the front yard, enhanced by climate-appropriate plantings that surround the house. The ground floor bedrooms revolve around the surrounding gardens, encouraging activity to flow into adjacent courtyards, while the kitchen seamlessly extends to the backyard oasis.
The external materials possess rich texture and timelessness, with the primary goal of being a thoughtful balance between solid and void. This enhances the beauty of the exposed brick masonry, particularly around openings. For instance, the cantilevered upper-floor balconies are enveloped by cement louver grill blockwork, which mitigates the harsh tropical sunlight and shields the balconies from monsoonal downpours. The House focus is primarily on the external views, particularly towards the garden, creating an austere yet inviting atmosphere. Given the relatively compact footprint of 170 square meters and the proximity of neighboring properties, the architects had to devise creative architectural solutions to provide adequate privacy and natural light. The structure boasts a sturdy exterior that integrates seamlessly with its surroundings.
The designers were committed to maximizing output with minimal input, intentionally steering clear of plaster and paint. Their aim was to create a modest duplex that highlights natural, locally sourced materials while achieving spatial quality through textural variety, material contrast, and abundant natural light rather than sheer square footage. Recycled doors and windows salvaged from Sri Lankan manor houses were re-used throughout the ground floor unit, while the ground floor’s parking area features repurposed cobblestones sourced from the upcountry tea estates of Sri Lanka.
On the ground floor, there are two bedrooms along with two parking spaces, with living, dining, and kitchen areas accessible via courtyard gardens integrated early in the design process. Generously-sized side-hung glazed doors create fluid connections to the outdoors, effectively extending the home’s interior to its edges. The first-floor balcony, while modest, is designed to protect the ground floor from both sun and rain. Rooms on the upper floor are intended to be filled with light, fostering a robust connection to the outdoor spaces and garden views via cantilevered balconies that promote a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. Innovative features like top-hung, multiple-sashed timber-framed glazed windows enhance the upper floor aesthetic.
The architects embraced the concept of a limited material palette, allowing the various materials used to be defined by their applications. These design choices result in a markedly contemporary structure while infusing the building with a sense of tranquility and warmth. Both units are bathed in natural light and warmth emanates from their raw, durable material palette. The architects recognized the significance of sun orientation, window placement, extended eaves, and cross-ventilation in maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures, while the careful selection of cost-effective materials contributes to overall durability and comfort.
‘Balancing the budget with sustainable aspirations was achieved by focusing the budget on the building’s skin: the structural steel skeleton, roof and walls.’ This ‘compact’ design deliberately leaves a ‘significant portion’ of the 170 square-meter site for outdoor courtyards & lush gardens. Despite the size of the 170 square meter block, the project maximizes on space and ensures comfortable low maintenance living for the small family and transforms the property into a low maintenance sanctuary. After finishing moving around the house is a simple joy, just because it is so tactile, comfortable and so connected to the outdoors.
