You Can Stay at This Vernacular-Style Beach House in Sri Lanka

This unusual looking guesthouse in Tangalle, Sri Lanka, was recently completed by Chinthaka Wickramage Associates. Issana Beach House is located 200 kilometers (125 miles) away from the bustling capital of Colombo and is a comfortable stopover for those looking to explore the country’s South Coast beaches.

According to the architects, the design of this house drew inspiration from the vernacular buildings of the nearby small towns and villages. The low-rise structures were developed to merge with the surrounding landscape. Local materials such as brick (for the masonry walls) and timber (for the roof and terraces) were integrated in the construction.

Before heading to the reception, visitors walk through an inviting forecourt. After checking-in, they are “squeezed” through a tall and narrow cathedral-like corridor that leads to the bedrooms. This narrow pathway continues with a triple-height lounge area, which visually communicates with the garden, beach and the Indian Ocean beyond.

The kitchen, storage area and laundry are all tucked to the rear of the site, while the living room and bedrooms are oriented toward the views. What are your thoughts on this tropical getaway in Sri Lanka? Information provided by Chinthaka Wickramage Associates; photography courtesy of Thilina Wijesiri.