Standing in the dining room of the estate bungalow in Ginigathhena, all that comes between you and the dense jungle is a pane of glass.

Outside, is the “infinity pool” with its view of the surrounding valley and constant fresh water from a nearby stream; water which flows off the other side of the pool, into the river below.

“I did not want to give the bungalow a wholly rustic feel or camouflage it in anyway,” said Architect Palinda Kannangara, the creator of this hideout in the hills. “I wanted it to be luxurious; and though different from its surroundings, it had to blend as well.”

With its straight lines and spectacular views of the valley and jungle, the 400 sq ft. three-bedroomed bungalow in Ginigathhena does just that. The only slight deviation from the design is in the master bedroom which has a cave-like atmosphere.

Receiving his education at Ananda College, Palinda studied architecture at the Sri Lanka Institute of Architects. “I was quiet and reserved as a child,” he recalls. “I never engaged in any sports; all I was interested in was Art.” He began studying architecture on a suggestion from his mother. “I was interested in art and good in mathematics, so what she said made sense.”

“And now, all I can say is that it is definitely the best profession in the world! You can create, think, innovate, draw and build all at the same time.

You also have the chance to change people’s lifestyles according to the places they live in.”

For Palinda, architecture is all about “having your own philosophy and being disciplined. But most importantly, you should always be open to new ideas.

I still feel as if I’m in my first year of architecture because I keep learning new things. In that sense, architecture is a never ending story of learning.” The nomination, he says, is a huge honour.