Philip Weeraratne Kotte Residence

摘要

Built for a young family within the confines of a restricted urban plot, the design was primarily influenced by the linear nature of the site. A long double height walkway with a skylight on top is used as a link between the inside and outside. The living room opens out towards the garden and the old "beli" (Aegle marmelos) tree that was preserved carefully during construction. A granite stone lined wall retains the earth around the tree. The simplicity of spaces is offset by the textural richness of the materials used; the local teak timber windows contrasted with the old cobblestones, the rough plastered walls contrasted with the cut and polished cement floors. The reflection of the sky can be enjoyed from the dining room through a shallow reflecting pond. The green lawn and creepers on the walls provide gentle backdrops which can be appreciated from both within and outside of the house. Beauty is perceived from the balance between elements and textures with the play of light that changes throughout the day. The arrangement and progression of spaces lend itself to a simple and modern experience of tropical living.