De Saram House by Geoffrey Bawa

Wonderful experience to staying in the important architecture. The site is originally owned the De Saram bros. and given to the Bawa trust then became an accommodation for public. The building is renovated by Geoffrey Bawa, so it’s must visit for architects and designers. The building is in good condition, it’s not for luxury but for indifferent experience. The master staff is really nice and knowledgeable, he kindly showed me other rooms! I had a pleasant and precious experience here. Note: wifi and hot water is really good. Breakfast is international style. (non Sri Lankan) The main entrance is really deep from the street, you just ring the bell of the huge black gate.

A delightful secret hideaway from the noise and hustle & bustle of a busy city. The staff were all extremely welcoming, friendly and efficient.

Originally, a private home designed by the famous Bawa, this is a delightful boutique hotel with only a limited number of rooms. The original art and the property offer many photo opportunities. The staff were amazing-- cheerful and extremely hospitable. Overall, a wonderful place to stay compared to other more conventional hotels in Colombo. Internet was a bit wonky during my stay, but resolved by the staff.

We were hoping to have some experience of Bawa's amazing architecture, and this was a real treat! It is an intimate family home (the De Saram family still use it regularly) that is operating as a B&B with just 4 bedrooms. We took the smaller room, but really loved it - it has multiple windows for views out and breezes in, and just downstairs is a beautiful pavilion sitting area overlooking one of the courtyards. It's in a great part of Colombo (Cinnamon Gardens) where it is quite quiet and civilised to walk around, but close to many places of interest. And then there is Anthony - the host - who is a wealth of information, humour and kindness. It was towards the end of our trip, and we just spent a lot of our time hanging out in our room and the pavilion, and enjoyed every minute. Good points: A real treat to stay in such an amazing building, and decent value for the quality of accommodation. And the wonderful helpfulness of Anthony. Bad points: Not for you if you are looking for luxury. The vibe is understated elegance, with occasional hints of shabby. A bridal photoshoot that wafted through the spaces while we were breakfasting was a little disconcerting!

If you are a lover of Architecture, History and the arts, this villa is a must visit to experience the legendary Geoffrey Bawa’s original restoration of Druvi De Saram’s previous residence. It is now managed by the Bawa trust and has four rooms with a gorgeous courtyard. Although in the heart of the city, the property is very quiet and a perfect place to stay and relax whilst reading, writing or even working. The property is looked after by two kind and courteous staff members, Sujeewa and Anthony who ensured we were comfortable during our stay. The rooms and bedding, washrooms are clean and comfortable. I was allocated the room overlooking the entrance Courtyard and I personally prefer it to all the other rooms. Room is equipped with tea, coffee and a hot water kettle plus extra pillows, blankets and a working desk. The washroom has ample towels in various sizes. This is a bed and breakfast property, so you will have to enjoy your other meals from out. However this is not a problem at all since the location is in the middle of where many restaurants, bars and coffee shops are located. The music room is their most prized possession and is filled with books, art and a grand piano. You can choose to relax in this room and take in its beauty during your stay. Thank you for a lovely stay and looking forward to returning soon!