PWA Architects

PWA Architects We are a team of architects and designers specializing in architectural, interior and furniture design.

PWA, as a dynamic and visionary practice based in Sri Lanka, we are particularly excited to be entrusted with shaping th...
18/06/2026

PWA, as a dynamic and visionary practice based in Sri Lanka, we are particularly excited to be entrusted with shaping this landmark development. The project represents a remarkable architectural journey, bringing together local design leadership and international collaboration, including specialist façade design input from SOG Singapore. It is a privilege to contribute to a project of this scale and ambition, helping define a new chapter in the architectural story of Port City.

An urban sanctuary in the sky, conceived as an open embrace toward the waterfront and surrounding parkland, this twin-tower residence brings a new expression of contemporary tropical living to Port City through light, openness, and connection to nature.

Sculptural frames, layered terraces, and expansive glazing create an architecture that shifts throughout the day, reflecting the sky, capturing ocean breezes, and framing uninterrupted views toward the waterway and the Indian Ocean beyond. Elevated gardens, sky courts, and shared spaces extend the landscape vertically, blurring the boundary between city and retreat while contributing a distinct identity to the evolving Port City skyline.

The project is led by Archt. Gayan Karunaratne Gayan Karunaratne and Archt. Philip Weeraratne Philip Weeraratne, assisted by Archt. Dilum De Jayawardana Dilum Dē Jayawardene and Archt. Neranji Wijendra Dil Neranji

At its heart, the project is designed not simply as a place to live, but as a place to gather, pause, and belong.

A contemporary landmark shaped by landscape, defined by experience, and created for life above the city.

A quiet journey, composed with intention.At the conceptual stage, the Tangalle Wellness Center is envisioned as a 1650 s...
14/05/2026

A quiet journey, composed with intention.

At the conceptual stage, the Tangalle Wellness Center is envisioned as a 1650 sqm hospitality project in Tangalle, Sri Lanka. It unfolds as a sequence of spaces, each guiding the body inward and the mind toward stillness. Movement becomes ritual, as light, scale, and atmosphere are carefully tuned to shape a gradual transition from arrival to introspection. Anchored by a strong axial spine, the experience becomes a continuous, immersive landscape where every threshold deepens a sense of calm. Here, architecture is not just occupied. It is felt.

Conceptualized and led by Archt. Sumith Perera and Archt. Philip Weeraratne, along with architectural assistance from Archt. Damien Fernando the project reflects a shared exploration of spatial clarity, atmosphere, and contemplative living.

Set within a lush estate in Baddegama, overlooking the Gin River, the residence transforms at dusk into a softly illumin...
28/04/2026

Set within a lush estate in Baddegama, overlooking the Gin River, the residence transforms at dusk into a softly illuminated retreat—its presence revealed through layers of light and shadow. Led by Archt. Ravindu Karunanayake with support from Archt. Wepul Arachchige under the guidance of Archt. Philip Weeraratne, the design embraces a slower, more contemplative rhythm as day transitions into night.

As natural light recedes, warm internal illumination begins to seep through timber screens and porous walls, diffused by the evening mist rising from the riverbanks. The same passive strategies that define the house by day—cross ventilation, deep overhangs, and filtered openings—take on a new atmospheric quality, casting layered shadows and soft glows across textured surfaces. The koi pond, courtyards, and planted edges become reflective planes, amplifying light and creating a sense of depth beyond the built form.

Upper-level balconies and the roof pavilion hover above the darkened canopy, offering quiet vantage points for reflection. Here, architecture dissolves into ambience—less object, more presence. The house becomes a lantern within the landscape, its boundaries blurred, its edges softened, existing in equilibrium with the night. A retreat not only defined by space, but by mood, stillness, and the passage of time.

Perched atop a hill in Baddegama, overlooking the Gin Ganga, the residence is conceived as a sequence of layered thresho...
21/04/2026

Perched atop a hill in Baddegama, overlooking the Gin Ganga, the residence is conceived as a sequence of layered thresholds—carefully attuned to climate, topography, and long views. Led by Archt. Ravindu Karunanayake with support from Archt. Wepul Arachchige under the guidance of Archt. Philip Weeraratne, the design reflects a quiet, deliberate response to place, shaped by a brief rooted in simplicity and a deep respect for the existing landscape.

Approached through a compressed entry sequence, the architecture withholds the river before gradually revealing it—framing the first glimpse through a porous corridor of interlocked breeze walls. The plan is oriented southeast to northwest, with primary spaces opening northeast toward the water, capturing prevailing winds and diffused daylight filtered through dense tree canopies. Timber screens, recessed openings, and permeable surfaces modulate airflow and privacy, allowing the house to breathe while maintaining a calibrated environmental comfort.

Materiality remains restrained and tactile—timber, stone, and muted plaster surfaces articulate depth through shadow and light rather than excess. Horizontal slabs extend outward as shaded verandahs, mediating interior and exterior while reinforcing a continuous architectural datum. Openings are precisely aligned to frame vegetation and distant horizons, dissolving boundaries between built form and cultivated estate. The result is a home that recedes into its setting—defined by passive performance, spatial clarity, and a seamless dialogue between architecture, garden, and river.

12/03/2026

We start with sound - or maybe with space.

Design in Conversation kicks off with an unexpected pairing: Architect Philip Weeraratne and electronic music producer Dimuth K, a key figure in Sri Lanka’s electronic music scene taking his roots to international platforms. Two creatives operating in different mediums but chasing the same thing: atmosphere.

From the evolution of EDM, rave culture, and its unexpected parallels with architecture, unpack rhythm, energy, and how culture shapes the spaces we move through.

Plug in. Step inside the conversation.

A Rs. 4 billion hospitality investment in Ella, this 60-key development marks a significant step in strengthening Sri La...
07/03/2026

A Rs. 4 billion hospitality investment in Ella, this 60-key development marks a significant step in strengthening Sri Lanka’s evolving tourism landscape. Conceived as a joint venture between Belluna Lanka Ltd. and Sanken Overseas Ltd., the project reflects long-term confidence in the country’s regional growth and destination-led development strategy.

Architectural design is led by PWA Architects, under the direction of Archt. Philip Weeraratne, together with Archt. Ravindu Karunanayake and Archt. Gayan Karunaratne, continuing a longstanding collaboration rooted in contextual sensitivity and disciplined scale. Positioned in close proximity to Ella Town and its railway station, the project reinforces the integral relationship between location, landscape, and sustainable hospitality — contributing meaningfully to the future of Sri Lanka’s tourism sector.

View the complete article here: https://www.ft.lk/front-page/Belluna-Lanka-and-Sanken-Overseas-launch-12-5-m-Granbell-Ella/44-788548

At Thai Boulevard, Queens Road, Colombo, the interior unfolds as a layered composition of texture and light. Led by Inus...
05/03/2026

At Thai Boulevard, Queens Road, Colombo, the interior unfolds as a layered composition of texture and light. Led by Inushi Wanduragala alongside Pranavan Rockwood, with assistance from Kanchini Chandrasiri under the guidance of Archt. Philip Weeraratne, the project brings together materiality and atmosphere in a refined, contemporary Thai setting.

Exposed beams, soft golden illumination, and curated Thai artwork shape a space that feels warm, grounded, and thoughtfully detailed. The long dining layout, framed by cane-backed chairs and clean-lined tables, encourages connection, while natural light filtering through glass balances the richness of the wood and earth-toned palette.

A space where design and dining meet seamlessly.

A heartfelt thank you to Chamindri Wijemanne and Suranjith Fonseka for their vision and collaboration throughout this journey. Their confidence in the team and drive for excellence encouraged us to step outside our safe limits and refine the project into something truly distinctive.

Step into Thai Boulevard on Queens Road, Colombo — where warm timber tones, woven textures, and ambient lighting come to...
28/02/2026

Step into Thai Boulevard on Queens Road, Colombo — where warm timber tones, woven textures, and ambient lighting come together in a layered composition of texture and light, creating an atmosphere of quiet elegance. Led by Inushi Wanduragala alongside Pranavan Rockwood, with assistance from Kanchini Chandrasiri under the guidance of Archt. Philip Weeraratne, the space reflects a refined and contemporary Thai aesthetic.

From the patterned wood flooring to the handcrafted rattan seating and statement pendant lights casting intricate shadows overhead, every detail has been thoughtfully considered. Mural-lined walls add depth and narrative, transforming the dining area into an immersive experience that feels both intimate and elevated — a setting designed to slow you down and savour the moment.

Our sincere gratitude to Chamindri Wijemanne and Suranjith Fonseka for their trust and continued encouragement. As inspiring and motivating clients, they pushed us beyond our comfort zones and challenged us to think more boldly, allowing the design to evolve to its fullest potential.

A contemporary high-rise shaped by the design sensibilities of its era, the tower responds to Colombo’s climate through ...
07/02/2026

A contemporary high-rise shaped by the design sensibilities of its era, the tower responds to Colombo’s climate through calibrated openings and integrated shading. Its vertical composition reflects a move toward restrained, thoughtful urban living.

The project was led by Archt. Ravindu Karunanayake in collaboration with Archt. Gayan Karunaratne, with contributions from Mohamed Resath and Dharman Muthukumarana, under the overall guidance of Archt. Philip Weeraratne.

Defined by quiet geometry and softened edges, the architecture moves away from spectacle, embracing a mature, performance-driven language.

Nestled within the iconic Galle Fort, The Merchant is a masterful blend of colonial heritage and contemporary design, me...
25/09/2025

Nestled within the iconic Galle Fort, The Merchant is a masterful blend of colonial heritage and contemporary design, meticulously restored under the guidance of Principal Archt. Philip Weeraratne, Malaka Andradi , Interior design by Inushi Wanduragala .w , and assisted by Sanuka Fernando and Pranavan Rockwood , the project preserves the historical charm of the building while embracing modern luxury. Through careful design, the team revived intricate timber detailing, lofty ceilings, and traditional verandas, honoring the architectural legacy of the fort.

The property invites guests to immerse themselves in both the past and present. Expansive, light-filled rooms fuse timeless elegance with minimalist comfort, while the tranquil courtyard offers respite from the vibrant streets of Galle Fort. The rooftop terrace provides sweeping views of the fort’s terracotta rooftops, the sea beyond, and the vibrant life below. Every detail, from the restored masonry to the contemporary furnishings, invites guests to slow down and savor the atmosphere of this historic gem.

Designed not only as a hotel but as a spatial experience, The Merchant allows history to live alongside modern comforts, creating a truly unique retreat in the heart of Sri Lanka’s most cherished heritage site.

Address

62 Vajira Road
Colombo
00400

Opening Hours

Monday 09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 09:00 - 17:00
Thursday 09:00 - 17:00
Friday 09:00 - 17:00

Telephone

+94112506645

Website

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