ITC One Colombo, which comprises the Sapphire Residences residential tower and the super-luxury ITC hotel, has successfully crossed several significant milestones toward its completion in 2023. And it is bringing gracious living closer to prospective homeowners and hotel guests.

The two distinctive towers, which dominate Colombo’s prestigious Galle Face ocean­front, are set to redefine the city’s skyline. It is developed by WelcomHotels Lanka, a wholly owned subsidiary of leading Indian conglomerate ITC, and offers the fusion of sustainable design and ultra premium luxury in its promise to be one of the greenest luxury developments in Sri Lanka.

WelcomHotels Lanka has collaborated with several of the world’s leading names including principal architecture by Gensler (US) working alongside revered local architect Deshabandu Sura­th Wickra­ma­singhe, residen­tial interiors by YOO inspired by Starck (UK & Paris), principal structural engineers Thornton Tomasetti (US), landscape design by Burega Farnell (Singapore), hotel interiors by Design Wilkes (Malaysia), security design by Control Risks with L&T Construction as the general contractor.

Despite facing significant external challenges over the past few years, the US$ 400 million plus development has successfully completed the superstructure of the 50 storey Sapphire Residences tower, the 30 storey ITC hotel tower, the Podium, the commercial block and the retail area.

Its most distinctive feature, which is the c.55 metre AHASA ONE Sky Bridge, has also been installed c.100 metres in the air connecting the Sapphire Residences tower with the adjacent ITC hotel tower bet­ween the 19th and 21st levels.

An engineering marvel and subject of a TV documentary last year, AHASA ONE positions Colombo among the top global cities where outstanding archi­tectural landmarks are found. The rooftop helipad, which has also been completed, is set to add a new dimension to transportation possibilities in the heart of the city.

With the luxury of space for the entire family being at the core of this superior proposition, it isn’t surprising that Sapphire Residences, which comprises 132 magnificent Sky Mansions and Penthouses, offers some of the largest apartments in South Asia averaging 5,500 square
feet of living space.

YOO has created four distinctive apartment interior designs – Nature, Classic, Minimal and Culture – to suit the different tastes and lifestyles of prospective homeowners. All four design styles draw inspiration from renowned designer Philippe Starck and Sri Lanka’s rich culture while exuding the ultimate in luxury.

Living luxuriously is also about convenience and safety. Each Sky Mansion is equipped with a state-of-the-art home automation system that plays a pivotal role in ensuring   personal safety.

Residents will be able to enjoy recreation and leisure facilities that are spread over 40,000 square feet. These include an exclusive private Residents’ Club, swimming pools, private cinema, outdoor amphitheatre, full service spa (with steam, sauna and treatment rooms), gymnasium and fitness centre, yoga room, indoor squash court and multipurpose sports court, function rooms, a creative studio, lounges for teens and kids etc.

This unique development will be the first of its kind in Colombo, and it does not stop with all the aforementioned design elements and amenities. Since people are increasingly conscious about the impact of their lifestyle on society and the environment, WelcomHotels Lanka is dedicated  to creating one of the most luxurious and sustainable properties in Colombo while setting the standard for luxury projects in the future.

Underpinned by the unwave­ring principle of responsible luxury, Sapphire Residences has already achieved the prestigious LEED® BD+C (Core and Shell Development) pre-certification at the highest platinum level.

Commenting on the remarkable progress of construction, Managing Director of Welcom­Hotels Lanka Subi George observes: “Despite the challeng­ing times, the completion of all these key milestones demonstrates our continued commitment towards delivering this sustainability-centric landmark development, which will set new standards for luxury in Colombo.”