Villa Renovation in Imaduwa, Sri Lanka

Villa Renovation in Imaduwa, Sri Lanka

Discover the transformation of a historic residence in Imaduwa, Sri Lanka, into a contemporary villa that honors its architectural legacy. Led by architects Gayan Karunaratne and Anjlee Pallge, this renovation retains the original door and window openings, ensuring natural light and airflow permeate the space. The project beautifully blends traditional Sri Lankan craftsmanship with modern minimalist design, featuring characteristic clay-tiled roofs and intricately carved timber columns.

The villa now offers a serene ambiance with polished cement floors and custom-designed furniture that enhances its natural beauty. Thoughtful landscaping seamlessly integrates lush greenery, creating a tranquil sanctuary that merges indoor and outdoor living. This renovation exemplifies respectful design, where each detail—from restored entryways to updated finishes—harmonizes the old with the new, providing a timeless essence of Sri Lankan architecture with modern amenities.

Design Goals

• Modernize: Update the interior aesthetic to reflect a clean, contemporary style.
• Preserve: Maintain the original structural elements and window/door placements.
• Optimize: Improve natural lighting, air circulation, and flow between rooms.

Design Process

Step 1: Initial Assessment and Site Analysis

Objective: Understand the existing structure, material quality, and layout limitations.

Activities:

• Conducted a thorough inspection to assess structural integrity, material durability, and existing wear and tear.
• Analyzed the placement of doors, windows, and rooms to identify opportunities for improved functionality within existing constraints.

Outcome: Developed a list of preserved elements (such as beams, doors, and original flooring) and identified areas needing modernization without disrupting the core structure.

Step 2: Concept Development

Objective: Create a contemporary vision that complements the original character of the house.

Activities:

• Developed mood boards and initial sketches to align with the client’s vision for a modern villa aesthetic.
• Explored materials and textures that would enhance the home’s warmth, such as natural wood finishes and soft neutrals.
• Selected design motifs and layouts that balance simplicity with the house’s classic architectural elements.

Outcome: Concept sketches and a visual roadmap that balanced preservation with modern design elements.

Step 3: Space Planning and Layout Optimization

Objective: Optimize spatial flow, light, and functionality within existing walls and openings.

Activities:

• Reworked room layouts to make them more open and cohesive, improving flow while retaining key structural walls.
• Focused on maximizing natural light by rearranging room functions around window placements and adding reflective surfaces.
• Designed multi-functional spaces by integrating modular furniture and storage solutions to work around layout limitations.

Outcome: Finalized layout plan that enhanced connectivity between spaces and optimized lighting, ensuring a seamless flow throughout the home.

Step 4: Material Selection and Detailing

Objective: Choose materials and finishes that resonate with a contemporary style but respect the home’s history.

Activities:

• Selected a harmonious color palette of whites, earth tones, and wood finishes for a modern yet timeless appeal.
• Sourced sustainable and durable materials that would withstand wear while matching the aesthetic—e.g., refinished original wood beams, polished concrete floors, and vintage-style tiling in bathrooms.
• Integrated subtle accents that highlight the home’s charm, such as metal trims on doors and minimalist hardware on cabinetry.

Outcome: A cohesive selection of materials that seamlessly blend the old with the new, offering durability and style.

Step 5: Construction and Restoration

Objective: Carefully execute the renovation, respecting the original build while implementing modern upgrades.

Activities:

• Coordinated with contractors to ensure preservation techniques were used on vintage elements, including wood restoration and delicate handling of historic architectural features.
• Oversaw the installation of custom furniture, light fixtures, and built-ins that align with the finalized design plan.
• Closely monitored construction progress to ensure each phase adhered to the vision, budget, and timeline.

Outcome: Smooth project execution with meticulous attention to detail, resulting in a flawless blend of historic preservation and modern comfort.

Step 6: Final Styling and Client Walkthrough

Objective: Complete the design with final styling touches and ensure client satisfaction.

Activities:

• Added décor elements such as modern furniture, artwork, and lighting that reflect the contemporary villa theme.
• Conducted a walkthrough with the client to explain each design choice, highlighting areas where original character was preserved.
• Made any last adjustments based on client feedback, ensuring that the design met their expectations.

Outcome: A successful reveal that resonated with the client’s vision, transforming the house into a modern villa while honoring its historical roots.

Before and After

Task

Renovate the existing structure without altering the original door and window openings, maintaining the quality and integrity of the original build.