The Journey of a Designer
From Village Dreams to a Legacy of Architecture
About Me
The Backdrop to My Personal Journey
The Backdrop to My Personal Journey
I was born in Hemmatagama, just 14 kilometers from Mawanella, and raised in a small village called Horagasmulla, close to Divulapitiya in the Gampaha District. My childhood unfolded in this vibrant village, where the fields stretched endlessly and life moved to its own leisurely rhythm. It was a place where adventure was a daily phenomenon and the world seemed boundless.
Growing up, academics weren’t my strong suit. I wasn’t the child pouring over books or chasing academic achievements. Instead, you’d find me climbing trees, running barefoot with friends, or constructing makeshift shelters from fallen branches and leaves. These days of exploration were more than just play—they became the foundation of how I saw and interacted with the world. Without realizing it, I was discovering the essence of design, observing how spaces, materials, and light worked together in harmony.
Early Influences: Lessons from Village Life
Life in Horagasmulla taught me to see beyond the surface. With no grand architecture or urban landscapes to inspire me, I turned to nature. The patterns of sunlight filtering through the trees, the flow of water in the fields, and the way simple structures blended effortlessly with their surroundings captured my imagination. These were my first lessons in design—lessons that would later shape my philosophy as an architect.
My parents were pivotal in shaping my values. Though they weren’t architects, they were creators in their own way, crafting a home filled with warmth and welcome despite limited resources. From them, I learned resilience, patience, and the importance of simplicity. Their example showed me that beauty and meaning don’t come from luxury but from heart and intention. These lessons remain the foundation of my work today.
Personal Anecdotes: Finding My Path Through Play
Academics may not have been my strength, but creativity and curiosity were. My teachers knew me as the restless child who couldn’t sit still, forever daydreaming or getting into playful mischief. While traditional education eluded me, my time outdoors taught me more than any classroom ever could.
I recall one vivid memory: my friends and I decided to design our own hideout in the woods. Using whatever materials we could find, we carefully arranged branches, stones, and leaves to create a space that was uniquely ours. That experience of building something from nothing sparked a realization: I wanted to shape spaces that felt like home, no matter where they were.
A Turning Point: From Village Dreams to City Ambitions
As I grew older, my dreams began to take shape. The call of architecture became undeniable. Moving to the city for my studies was a transformative experience. It was intimidating to leave the familiarity of village life, but it was also exhilarating. The fast-paced environment of the city, with its competitive energy, pushed me out of my comfort zone.
While others in architecture school focused on theoretical concepts, I brought a fresh perspective grounded in authenticity and simplicity. My upbringing had taught me to find beauty in connection—to create spaces that felt alive, balanced, and rooted in purpose. This philosophy became my guiding principle as I navigated the challenges of urban life and my architectural journey.
Education and Training
Overcoming Early Struggles
Learning in a New Language
When I began my architectural studies, I faced a significant obstacle: my education was conducted entirely in English, a language I struggled with at the time. The technical terminology and complex concepts seemed like an insurmountable barrier. But this challenge became a defining part of my journey.
With persistence, I adapted. Each project became an opportunity to express myself, even as I struggled to find the right words. Over time, I learned to communicate my ideas with clarity, gaining confidence along the way.
Formal Education
I studied at The Colombo School of Architecture and The Sri Lanka Institute of Architects, where my passion for design flourished. The rigorous training and exposure to diverse architectural styles honed my technical skills and deepened my creative vision. These years were transformative, as I began to see architecture not just as a profession but as a powerful medium for storytelling and connection.
My Professional Journey
From Struggles to Success
Mentors Who Shaped My Path
Every journey is shaped by those who believe in you when you cannot believe in yourself. My career owes much to the mentors who guided me through my early struggles. Three architects in particular played a pivotal role:
- The Late Arch. Harsha Fernando: A mentor who taught me to think outside the box and view architecture as an art form rather than just a technical discipline.
- Arch. Ranga Dayasena: His unwavering belief in my abilities instilled resilience in me, pushing me to overcome self-doubt.
- Arch. Tamara Wijepala: Her wisdom and guidance helped me navigate some of the most challenging moments, teaching me to embrace struggles as opportunities for growth.
A Pillar of Support: Arch. Dilushi Mendis
Beyond mentors, my life partner Arch. Dilushi Mendis has been my greatest source of strength. Her love and encouragement have been the backbone of my journey. Through every late-night project and moment of uncertainty, her unwavering belief in me has been a steady light.
A Defining Moment
Meeting Mr. Sudarshan Nagaratnam was a pivotal moment in my career. His advice on creating a unique consultancy firm made me realize that success lies in innovation, not following the norm. His words inspired me to take a distinct path, shaping the direction of my professional journey.
Early Roles That Built My Foundation
My professional journey began with roles that shaped my understanding of architecture. As a Student Architect at Architects Associates and later as a Graduate Architect at Mano Ponnnia Associates, I gained deeper insights into design’s transformative potential, while my role at Dialog Axiata as An Architect allowed me to merge creativity with functionality.
Founding C Plus Design: A Leap of Faith
In 2007, I took the bold step of founding C Plus Design. Starting with just two employees working around my dining table, the journey was both humbling and inspiring. Today, C Plus Design has grown into a thriving firm with over 35 employees. This success is a testament to the dedication and loyalty of my team, including Janaka Roshan and Prabath Chinthaka, who have been with me since the beginning.
C Plus Design
Crafting Spaces That Inspire
Client Relationships: The Heart of Our Success
I wouldn’t be where I am without the trust of my first clients, including Mr. Prasad, Mr. Karthik, and Mr. Tushara Perera. Their faith in my vision laid the foundation for everything that followed. Today, every client becomes a partner in the creative process, shaping spaces that reflect their aspirations and needs.
Notable Projects and Milestones
Over the years, C Plus Design has delivered a diverse portfolio of projects, from personalized residences to corporate offices, hotels, and healthcare facilities. Milestones such as the AIA Head Office, Janashakthi Life Head Office, and Hotel Magnetar Ella reflect our commitment to blending functionality with beauty.
Core Values That Guide My Work
Throughout my career, I’ve adhered to a set of principles that define both my approach and my relationships with clients:
- Genuine, Unbiased Professional Advice: Offering solutions grounded in expertise and tailored to client needs.
- Active Listening: Prioritizing understanding the client’s vision before proposing designs.
- Budget Management: Delivering quality within financial frameworks.
- Respecting Clients’ Time: Ensuring timely and efficient project delivery.
- Flexibility: Adapting approaches to meet the unique demands of each project.
Overcoming Challenges
Lessons in Resilience
The COVID-19 Pandemic and Political Instability
The challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and Sri Lanka’s political instability tested every aspect of my life and career. During the lockdowns of 2020, my firm’s future seemed uncertain. Yet, these trials became opportunities for growth.
Lessons Learned:
- The Power of Positivity: Facing uncertainty with optimism helped me inspire my team to keep moving forward.
- Innovation in Adversity: Embracing digital tools and virtual collaboration allowed us to continue delivering projects despite restrictions.
- Adaptability: Flexibility became our greatest strength, enabling us to navigate shifting circumstances with agility.
- Connection: Staying connected with clients and team members fostered trust and solidarity.
My Design Philosophy
Timeless, Functional, and Personal
My Design Philosophy: Creating Timeless and Functional Spaces
At the heart of my design philosophy is the belief that architecture and interior design should evolve with the times, while maintaining a timeless appeal. I believe in creating spaces that are simple, functional, and elegant—whether for homes, offices, or hospitality projects. Each design is approached with the goal of crafting environments that stand the test of time.
Minimalism plays a key role in my work. I focus on clean lines, open spaces, and eliminating unnecessary elements, allowing the design to breathe. Every detail serves a purpose and contributes to the experience of the space. By stripping away excess, I make sure that the essence of the design shines through.
I am committed to client-centered design, listening to and understanding each client’s vision. Every project is unique, reflecting the client’s needs, lifestyle, and aspirations. My goal is to enhance their everyday lives through thoughtful, functional spaces that inspire comfort and ease.
Embracing modern technology, I integrate sustainable building methods and smart home innovations to create efficient, eco-friendly spaces. Technology should blend seamlessly with the design, improving the user experience without overpowering the space.
Ultimately, my aim is to create designs that remain relevant for the long term. By using durable materials and timeless aesthetics, I craft spaces that inspire and serve their purpose for generations to come.
Vision & Future
Shaping Spaces for Tomorrow
Looking ahead, my vision for architecture and interior design is focused on creating a lasting legacy of meaningful spaces. I am committed to designing environments that not only meet today’s needs but anticipate the challenges of tomorrow.
Innovative, Sustainable, and Personal Designs
Sustainability and technology will play an even larger role in the future of design. I aim to incorporate eco-friendly technologies, renewable energy systems, and green architecture principles into every project. Sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s a responsibility to the future.
I also strive to push the boundaries of client-centered design. By collaborating with clients to understand their needs and dreams, I aim to create spaces that are both functional and deeply personal, tailored to each individual’s lifestyle.
Designing for the Future
As an architect, I want to set new trends, not follow them. I plan to expand my horizons through collaborations with international designers and embracing innovative materials and techniques. My goal is to create spaces that transcend trends and become lasting parts of people’s lives.
Building a Legacy
What matters most is building a legacy of purpose. I want my work to be transformative, inspiring a sense of harmony, inspiration, and belonging. In the coming years, I look forward to continuing to learn, innovate, and collaborate with a team that shares my vision, creating designs that are as impactful in the future as they are today.
