Khouse

AIM Architecture & Norm Architects Blend European Craftsmanship with South East Asian Design

Designed in a combined effort with Shanghai based AIM Architecture led by Wendy Saunders and Vincent de Graaf, and Norm Architects in Copenhagen led by Peter Eland, this holiday home in Sri Lanka is a unique collaboration.

Born and raised in Bruges, Saunders has immersed herself in a diverse set of cultures and architectural connections throughout her life and career. Hailing from a family of fine craftsmen, her influences cover a vast swath of global cultures that bring together European history and design with the South East Asian aesthetic and a modern approach that synthesizes the many aspects in between. With a grounded and direct design philosophy, the team has created architecture that remains sensitive to the landscape and its cultural contexts and values, elevating its natural beauty with a sense of place.

Set along the island's southern shores, the home is surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking views, blending into the landscape in gentle transitions. Comprised of two separate buildings, the east-facing structure is placed atop a hill opening up to the sea, with the west house tucked away, providing a more sheltered mood.  Using all natural materials in a nuanced way that evoke sensations and impression from nature, the house doesn't dominate, but is in harmonious relationship with the land and sea.

Nestled within a secluded bay along one of the island's most unspoiled stretches of coastline, this holiday rental in Sri Lanka is set back at the end of a narrow road among lush gardens directly on the shores of the Indian Ocean. Comprised of two individual buildings in an L-shape formation, one faces east with ocean views, with a sheltered west facing house framing the gardens and central pool area. 

Composed of polished concrete facades, local teak wood, terrazzo, recycled terracotta tiles, and outdoor areas of local granite, the property's tactile natural materials complement the wild beauty of the site.

Each of the two buildings includes three double bedrooms, living rooms and independent kitchens, and both houses face the garden and the sea. Each has unique and distinctive design characteristics, with the west house featuring an intimate enclosed living area while the east house features an open air feel.

The staggered indoor/outdoor spaces include living and dining areas, with terraces that define the two. The sheltered rooflines allow you to enjoy the gardens, and nature, rain or shine, just steps from the beach.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Fully staffed with breakfast included and optional additional meals (with fees) prepared by private chef. Optional yoga and massage services, day trips can be arranged. Wifi throughout, kitchen and bath essentials, laundry facilities, privtae parking.

AROUND

Located at the southern tip of the island just under an hour from the UNESCO heritage town of Galle and the “Golden Triangle,” you are just ten minutes from the crystal clear waters and famous surf breaks of Hiriketiya Bay in the lovely little seaside village of Godauda.

Nearby Tangalle is a lively fishing village with great beaches in easy reach including Rakewa beach where the marine turtles come to nest, whales and dolphins migrate, and from where you can partake in pilgrimages to Katharagama, the ancient Mulkirigala Temple and the famous Wewurukannara Temple.

The port city of Hambantota, and the Uda Walawe National Park, which is known for its wild elephants are both an hour from the villa. It’s just over two hours north to Yala National Park for lush tropical forests and water falls and, if you’re lucky, the occasional leopard sighting.

The most well-preserved colonial city and fort on the island, Galle is home to the most popular beaches of Unawatuna and Thalpe, Wijaya and Midigama. Don’t miss the lowland White Tea plantations, the amazing home and gardens of Sri Lanka’s best known architect Geoffrey Bawa in nearby Lunganga, and Mirissa for whale watching and nature enthusiasts. The capital of Colombo is approximately a two hour drive.

LOCATION

Godauda, Sri Lanka. Nearest International Airport: Colombo (190km)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round with the wettest months occurring in May through September