Architectural Modernism in Sri Lanka
View(s):From pre independence to early post-independence Sri Lanka experienced a significant transformation in architectural landscape, shaped by the global modernist movement and adapted to the country’s unique cultural and environmental context. This period marked a shift from traditional and colonial period styles to a new architectural language that embraced functionality, simplicity, and innovation.The architectural modernism in Sri Lanka was influenced by global trends, particularly those emerging mainly from western world. Architects such as Le Corbusier, Walter Gropius, and Frank Lloyd Wright inspired a departure from ornate designs to more utilitarian and functional structures. The socio-political climate, including Sri Lanka’s independence in 1948, also played a crucial role. There was a growing desire to establish a national identity through architecture, reflecting both modern aspirations and local traditions.
The modern architectural movement in Sri Lanka was spearheaded by pioneering architects such as Minnette de Silva,Geoffrey Bawa, Valentine Gunasekara, Justin Samarasekara, UlrikPlesnerand least spokenShirley de Alwis and Vasantha Jacobsen. These architects blended modernist principles with local materials, tropical climatic considerations, and the cultural ethos of the country.
Minnette de Silva, the first female architect in Asia, incorporated elements of Sri Lankan culture, such as intricate craftsmanship and traditional motifs into her modernist designs. Her projects, such as the Karunaratne House in Kandy, highlighted her commitment to fusing modern architecture with local heritage focusing on modern regional architecture in the tropics while Geoffrey Bawa is widely regarded as the father of tropical modernism by researchers and architectural historians. His designs such as Lunuganga at large, Bentota beach Hotel; between the ocean and river (Minor fortified post of Dutch), Tourist Police station of Bentota and Institute for integral education at Piliyandala etc, emphasised harmony between built forms and the natural landscape. Bawa’s work integrated open spaces, courtyards, and verandas, creating a seamless connection between interior and exterior spaces.
Valentine Gunasekara contemporary of Bawa brought a stark modernist approach to the forefront with bold, geometric forms and the use of concrete and glass. He experimented with concrete as a highly formable building material as a integrated part of the design with a deep understanding of the strength of material and engineering.His designs, such as the Tangalle Bay Hotel, Ilangakoon House and Bishop’s College Auditorium in Colombo, house done for Tharmaratnam at town hall precinct in Colombo were innovative for their time with very strong curvilinear forms in concrete. His complete detailing of projects on drawing board solved most of the problems on site, therefore it would have been a smooth sail during production of the modern experimental design.
There are few least spoken architects who had given contribution to Sri Lanka’s modern architecture. Some of them are Drjastin Samarasekara, Shirly De Alwis and Vasantha Jakobsen. I would rather say architecture in any country is a political statement. During the emerging of the modern architectural style in the country it was handled by few foreign educated architects until university of Moratuwa established its faculty of Architecture in the early seventees.Justin Samarasekara, a pioneer of post-independence architecture in the country; made significant contributions to Sri Lanka’s architectural education. His design of the Kalutara Bodhi Shrine masterfully combines religious significance with modernist aesthetics in to a hollow Stupa casted in concrete showcasing his ability to integrate spirituality into contemporary architecture. The design is celebrated for its simplicity, functionality and the profound symbolism embedded in the structure. The everyday rituals at this marvel structure by the public is notable. The Stupa was built on the Old Dutch fort at Kalutara by the river next to a shrine tree of fecusreligiosa [Bodhi tree].Shirley de Alwis is best known for his design of the University of Peradeniya, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic educational institutions. Inspired by the natural landscape of the hill country, de Alwis created a campus that blends harmoniously with its surroundings. His use of open landscape, pavilions, student hostels and the incorporation of traditional Kandyan architectural elements into a modernist framework exemplify his ability to merge tradition with modernity.Sri Lanka’s new parliamentary complex in Kotte [during President JR Jayawardene’s time] shows a plaque on the wall stating the names of designers and the contractors. It says Geofferybawa, Dr Pologasundaram and Vasantha Jakobsen involved in the design. Vasantha’s contribution to modern architecture in Sri Lanka reflects free forms and landscape integration. Her own house and the Matara houses showcases techniques of use of local material somewhat similar to UlrikPlesner who originally came to work with Minnette De Silva. Robson states “Vasantha Jacobsen’s achievements have never been fully documented and she deserves to be remembered alongside Minnette De Silva as one of Sri Lanka’s first woman architects.” In his book BAWA the complete works. Ulrik later joined Bawand became his associate until 1967 involving in contemporary designs. His second cycle was the involvement in the Mahaweli Development programme under Minister G. Disanayake. In 2006 Ulrik came to Sri Lanka for his third and final cycle which is not spoken in the circle where he worked as a project partner with the author for a rural university funded by JDC America. Ulrik was the dorner’s eyes in Sri Lanka. During this time he was recognised by the Institute of Architects Sri Lanka and concurred with honorary membership of the institute. In fact Ulrik held his first exhibition in Lanka during this period.
Careful analysis of the factors used by the architects in transition for the modernist architecture movement in the country can be listed down few key areas that were considered as characteristics for modern designs.
Climate-Responsive Design: Architects prioritised designs that suited the tropical climate, including the use of large overhangs, courtyards, and cross-ventilation.
Integration of Nature: Buildings were designed to blend seamlessly with their surroundings, reflecting a respect for the natural environment.
Use of Local Materials: Clay tiles, timber, and stone were often used, reducing costs and enhancing cultural relevance.
Simplicity and Functionality: Clean lines, open plans, and minimalist aesthetics were dominant, aligning with global modernist principles.
Impact on Urban and Residential Architecture:
During this period, modernist principles influenced both public buildings and private residences. Educational institutions, religious landmarks, government offices, and urban housing projects adopted modernist designs, showcasing a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. Residential architecture also underwent a transformation, with modernist homes incorporating open layouts, gardens, and courtyards that reflected the island’s way of life. Parallel to this the ‘American Style’ emerged in the suburbs of Colombo for new middle class as a result of the urbanization and due to urban migration during the same period.
The period from 1940 to 1970 laid the foundation for Sri Lanka’s unique architectural identity. Architects like Geoffrey Bawa, Minnette de Silva, Valentine Gunasekara, UlrikPlesner ,Justin Samarasekara, and Shirley de Alwis exemplified the movement’s capacity to balance international modernist ideals with Sri Lanka’s rich traditions and natural environment.
In conclusion, architectural modernism in Sri Lanka during this period was a transformative era that redefined the built environment. It demonstrated how innovative approaches to design could respect cultural heritage and the natural landscape while addressing the demands of a modern, independent nation. These trailblasing architects created a legacy that continues to inspire and influence contemporary Sri Lankan architecture.
- Architect SusilLamahewa
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