GEOFFREY BAWA TRUST
Geoffrey Bawa’s iconic Colombo residence opens a new guest suite.
COLOMBO, September 22nd, 2025: Tucked down the quiet 33rd lane off Bagatelle road sits Number 11, Geoffrey Bawa’s former residence and now speciality museum. Closed to the public except during designated tour times, this hidden gem recently expanded its options for overnight guests wishing to immerse themselves in a unique architectural landmark.
The newly restored ground-floor suite was first designed as a self-contained annex before being converted into an office space for Bawa’s practice, and then the offices of the Geoffrey Bawa Trust. Hidden from the public gaze of those touring the residence, the suite offers peace and seclusion where the city’s hustle is easily forgotten and traffic noise is replaced by birdsong.
After undergoing extensive renovations in 2024/2025 by architect and Geoffrey Bawa Trust Chair, Channa Daswatte, alongside Chamika De Alwis, also an architect and Trustee, the newly refurbished one-bedroom suite feels fresh and modern, while maintaining Bawa’s architectural style. As with many of his properties, the space relishes clean lines, connections between indoor and outdoor spaces, and emphasises functionality and natural light.
Number 11 first began as a single row house in a block of four, which Bawa rented in 1959 from lawyer, writer, and patron of the arts Harold Peiris. Within a decade, the architect purchased all four houses and undertook extensive renovations to create the urban, introspective residence that exists today. This gradual evolution of the home stands as a living testament to the late architect’s life and legacy.
Filled with the architect’s own art and artefacts, many collected or gifted by friends throughout his life, the house stands as a testament to the architect’s style and creativity, as well as a record of travels taken and friendships formed throughout his lifetime.
The new suite is a continuation of this commitment to living history, and the rooms, with their vintage furniture and original interior decoration, feel as though one is stepping back into Bawa’s heyday, albeit with all the modcons of the 21st century.
From the open plan living and dining areas, guests are led down a handful of steps into the sunken bedroom where cool terracotta tiles line the sunken floor. The experience of descending into the bedroom gives the room a cool seclusion and the impression that the ceiling is soaring above the wide bed. As with the living and dining areas, the bedroom hosts its own courtyard garden, pulling in natural light and showcasing the play of shadow amongst green vegetation. This tight control of space and vista is classic Bawa, and reminiscent of many of his properties, including his Lunuganga house and garden.
Number 11 first opened its doors to overnight guests in 2010, and for the past 15 years, guests have been sleeping amongst the art and artefacts of the late architect’s collection. Designed by Geoffrey Bawa for friends and visitors, the original two-bedroom suite is located on the first floor. Both suites feature private sitting rooms with tea and coffee-making facilities, and have access to the rooftop terrace and viewing platform.
This new addition to a historic Colombo landmark offers a unique mix of cultural immersion and luxury that is perfect for out-of-towners or locals looking for a glimpse into the life and style of a visionary Sri Lankan architect.
Number 11 and its guest suites are owned and managed by the Geoffrey Bawa Trust. Geoffrey Bawa established the Trust in his name in 1982. Since his passing in 2003, it has maintained the architect’s archives and sustained year-round public programmes, such as lectures, tours, and exhibitions, that engage broad discourse on natural and built environments and the arts. All proceeds from the accommodation go towards the Trust’s goal to promote architecture, fine arts, and environmental studies in Sri Lanka and abroad.
For more information, visit: geoffreybawa.com/number-11
For inquiries and reservations: admin@geoffreybawa.org
