Q: How has the leadership of Fairway’s former chairman, the late Hemaka De Alwis, contributed to its success?

Virath De Alwis (VD): Our late chairman set high standards for every project, prioritising quality above all else. He frequently reminded us that meeting customer expectations wasn’t enough and his personal standards always surpassed those of our customers.

He insisted on delivering homes he himself would be proud to live in, demonstrated by our very first project built over 20 years ago, which remained his primary residence for life despite numerous developments thereafter.

He also fostered a culture of care and professional growth for his employees, many of whom have remained with the company for decades and many of whom currently hold prominent industry leadership roles.

A visionary leader, he recognised early on that apartment living represented the future of Sri Lanka’s housing landscape and developed projects tailored to the nation’s evolving lifestyles.

Q: What are some milestones that have shaped your organisation’s journey?

VD: Fairway’s journey began in 2004 with our inaugural project in Buthgamuwa, Rajagiriya, transforming an underdeveloped area into a thriving suburban community. This was the first of several notable Fairway projects in the area, greatly enhancing local infrastructure and creating new opportunities for surrounding communities.

We acquired Centrepoint Homes in 2011, which became our dedicated interior solutions company specialising in kitchens, flooring, windows and doors. This acquisition gave us greater control over project finishes and detailing, enabling innovation in quality, sustainability and durability.

Our entry into the leisure sector came in 2016 with the launch of the Fairway Colombo hotel – one of the city’s premier business hotels. In 2022, we reached the milestone of completing and handing over 1,000 apartments with our Fairway Elements project, underscoring our sustained impact in the real estate sector.

Q: What makes Fairway apartments different?

VD: What sets our apartments apart is the thoughtfulness in their design and conceptualisation. Guided by our late chairman’s vision, we prioritise quality above all –  irrespective of cost or complexity. Our core philosophy is to understand deeply how people live and design accordingly, consistently incorporating global best practices for lasting durability and functionality.

Many of our early projects, built two decades ago, continue to meet or exceed today’s market standards. We also believe it is important that our projects blend naturally with their surrounding environments and neighbourhoods, enhancing rather than disrupting, to the benefit of both the area and the project.

Q: Is Fairway Holdings as a company considerate of environmental sustainability?

VD: Sustainability is a part of our company’s DNA. Our late chairman was involved in hydropower before apartment development and personally launched several of Sri Lanka’s first wind power projects.

Sustainability extensively influenced his decision to pursue apartment development as he realised that the efficient use of land was one of our country’s most essential priorities in terms of sustainability.

On the same acre that could accommodate 10 houses, we can build 100 spacious apartments, extensively reducing the environmental footprint. As Colombo and Sri Lanka continue to grow, land efficiency is essential to balancing urban development with conserving forests and wildlife.

Our sustainability commitment is also reflected in our construction practices. We exclusively use engineered timber, a sustainable product made from waste wood, avoiding any timber sourced from Sri Lankan felled trees. Additionally, we integrate advanced technologies for water and energy efficiency, minimising environmental impact.

Beyond environmental efforts, we work towards promoting Sri Lankan culture through initiatives such as the Fairway Colombo Cultural Show, and the Fairway Colombo Art & Jazz on the Street festival, which promote contemporary and traditional artists including exhibitions of angampora and traditional dance forms.

We believe these initiatives will not only help preserve the country’s rich heritage but also be a valuable addition to the tourism industry.

Q: As a young leader, are you ready to take on this new role?

VD: I am fortunate to lead a dedicated team with decades of experience across all facets of our business sectors, many of whom have worked alongside our late chairman since the beginning. I am very grateful for their loyalty and ongoing support.

I also had the privilege of working closely with our late chairman, my father, for the past five years, and I hope to carry forward his vision and values. With their support and his guidance, I look forward to leading this group through many new and impactful projects to come.

Q: Under your leadership, how will Fairway evolve and what key projects lie ahead?

VD: While we continue to expand our footprint in the leisure sector through Fairway Travels and hotel management, our core focus remains firmly on condominium development.

At Fairway, our mission is to create homes designed around how people live and aspire to live. It is very important to me personally that our projects are places where families can thrive and grow. This vision is embodied in our latest project, Fairway Latitude in Colombo 5 – our first major residential development in central Colombo.

This project brings together two decades of experience and trusted industry partners, and is tailored for people living and working in Colombo. It prioritises convenience, modern innovation and liveability, and we expect it to set a new benchmark for urban development in the city.

Q: How would you describe your journey into the real estate sector?

Rajitha Jayasuriya (RJ): Real estate is ubiquitous, indispensable and the largest asset in the books. From the inception of my career in 1997 as an Assistant Sales Manager at Ceylinco Consolidated Group, I have been deeply committed to the sector.

Over the years, I have built my expertise in branding and sales, leading major luxury villas and apartment developments in Sri Lanka. As Director of Sales and Marketing at Access Engineering, I concluded the 242 unit ultra luxury apartment project Capital Heights – Rajagiriya, which was sold before completion.

Despite challenges brought on by COVID-19, the project was completed and successfully handed over in 2022. Through global road shows and strategic campaigns, my teams and I have sold over 800 high-end properties. I am proud of the growth we’ve achieved and the impact that’s been made on Sri Lanka’s real estate landscape.

Q: Fairway Holdings has become a household name in real estate and development… how would you describe the company‘s core vision and ways in which it has evolved over the years?

RJ: From the beginning, our vision at Fairway Holdings has been to enhance urban living in Sri Lanka through innovation, sustainability and uncompromising quality. We are proud to be among the first few developers to pioneer high-rise living in the country; and with over 1,000 apartments completed and handed over, we have played a major role in transforming Colombo’s residential landscape.

With our latest project Fairway Latitude, we’re taking this vision even further. It represents the next generation of urban living, integrating eco-conscious features and lifestyle amenities that meet the expectations of today’s discerning homeowners.

As always, our goal is to stay ahead of the curve while continuing to deliver long-term value to residents and stakeholders.

Q: What makes Fairway Latitude stand out?

RJ: Fairway Latitude is a distinguished addition to the residential landscape of Colombo 5, offering a unique blend of strategic location, architectural excellence, sustainability and lifestyle focussed amenities.

Developed by Fairway Holdings – a name synonymous with quality and innovation in Sri Lanka’s real estate sector – the project draws on decades of experience and a consistent commitment to elevating urban living standards.

Strategically situated in Kirulapone, a rapidly developing suburb, Fairway Latitude enjoys excellent connectivity to major commercial hubs, leading schools and top tier healthcare facilities. This location is ideal for today’s homeowners who value accessibility, convenience and community.

It is a true reflection of our ethos: creating modern, sustainable homes in vibrant locations that empower residents to lead a connected and balanced life.

Q: Who is the ideal resident or buyer for Fairway Latitude and what kind of lifestyle does the project aim to offer?

RJ: Fairway Latitude is designed for the professional with a hustle; parents of schooling children; and senior citizens who seek a refined, well-connected urban lifestyle in the heart of Colombo. To the Sri Lankan expatriate, it’s a home away from home.

With its close proximity to leading hospitals, medical centres, schools and educational institutions, Fairway Latitude offers unmatched convenience while providing a peaceful residential setting with city amenities for rest and rejuvenation.

The project caters to a discerning demographic that values accessibility, quality and a balanced lifestyle – making Fairway Latitude an ideal home for covenant living.

Q: What was the architectural vision behind the project and were there unique challenges or inspirations that shaped its design?

RJ: The architectural vision for Fairway Latitude was shaped by our commitment to creating a harmonious blend of modern urban living, sustainability and practical functionality – all within the context of Colombo’s evolving skyline.

Our team of seasoned architects and planners focussed on delivering clean, contemporary aesthetics complemented by smart, functional layouts that optimise natural light and ventilation.

A key challenge was maximising space in a dense urban setting while ensuring privacy and comfort. This was addressed through innovative floor plans, strategic apartment orientation and the thoughtful integration of communal green areas that offer residents a sense of openness amid the bustle of the city.

Q: How do you see Fairway Latitude influencing or elevating the surrounding community or real estate landscape?

RJ: Fairway Latitude is poised to have a positive impact on both the local community and Colombo’s broader real estate sector. The project introduces a new benchmark for sustainable, contemporary living in a neighbourhood traditionally dominated by low-rise residences and mixed use buildings.

Beyond housing, it contributes to the urban fabric by enhancing infrastructure and stimulating economic activity. Features such as on-site commercial facilities facilitate a walk friendly environment and promote local convenience, encouraging a more cohesive, community centric lifestyle.

Accordingly, Fairway Latitude not only elevates its surroundings but also sets a precedent for thoughtful, future forward development on Colombo’s skyline.

– Compiled by Nirmali Ameresekere
COMPANY DETAILS

Telephone: 7586586 | Email: info@fairwayholdings.com | Website: www.fairwayholdings.com