CASE STUDY: Uga Ghiri
Yasasi Hettiarachchi, Founder of YH Interior Design Studio, reflects on her creative journey bringing a new collection of villas to life within the historic grounds of Ella’s Sutherland Estate in Sri Lanka
After two decades of delivering ultra-private, world-class hospitality, Uga Resorts is set to expand its collection this July with the opening of its eighth property, set in Sri Lanka’s central highlands region. Nestled within the grounds of Ella’s historic Sutherland Estate, Uga Ghiri will consist of 15 standalone villas with a luxurious yet contemporary design alongside a meticulously restored colonial-era manor, which will serve as the property’s main house and culinary destination, an infinity pool, and a state-of-the-art spa. A private haven surrounded by sweeping panoramas of Ella’s emerald tea plantations, rolling hills and world-famous Nine Arch Bridge, the all-inclusive property promises world-class dining, healing wellness treatments and endless activities both on the property and in the surrounding central highlands. Below, Yasasi Hettiarachchi, Founder of YH Interior Design Studio and Interior Designer of Uga Ghiri, shares her vision that shaped the property, reflects on the creative challenges encountered throughout the project and reveals what she may have approached differently.
INSIDE THE DESIGN VISION
Upon receiving the brief to design a luxury boutique hotel in Ella for Uga, I aspired to transcend the conventional aesthetic prevalent in the Hill Country, which often leans towards the Sri Lankan tea bungalow concept. Instead, I envisioned an interior that reflects the grandeur of a bygone era, reminiscent of the opulence associated with British colonial rule.
The design of the public areas aims to evoke a sense of European elegance, seamlessly blending historical charm with contemporary comfort, where guests feel as though they have travelled back in time the moment they step into the public spaces of Uga Ghiri.
Central to this vision was the emphasis on creating user-friendly and cosy accommodations where guests can immerse themselves in the breathtaking surroundings without venturing outdoors. The thoughtfully designed bedrooms and bathrooms offer panoramic views of the exquisite landscapes, allowing guests to relish nature’s beauty from the comfort of their luxurious interiors, thereby enhancing their overall experience in this exceptional location.
BRINGING UGA GHIRI TO LIFE
In the design of the villa Units at Ella Uga Ghiri, meticulous attention was devoted to the integration of natural environments and the influx of daylight, thereby crafting accommodations that harmoniously blend nature with the guest experience. Drawing inspiration from Scandinavian architecture principles, the villas were designed to cultivate an airy ambience that invites abundant natural light, thereby enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection. This serene atmosphere is further enriched through the incorporation of distinctive Sri Lankan elements, such as ‘Beeralu Fabric’, a handwoven textile crafted by local artisans with roots tracing back to ancient times, alongside ‘Laksha’ - painted artefacts that infuse the interior with local culture.
In contrast to existing hotels that predominantly showcase traditional Sri Lankan Architecture, such as Uga Riva in Negombo and Ulagalla Deluxe Villas in Anuradhapura, Ella Ghiri offers a modern reinterpretation of luxury that embodies sophistication and grandeur.
Whereas Chena Huts are inspired by the livelihood of Sri Lankan farmers, they encapsulate a modern rustic aesthetic that seamlessly integrates with lush landscapes. While Ghiri represents a departure towards the grand splendour and sophistication, characterised by more elaborate architectural forms and refined details. This shift not only highlights the transition in design philosophy but also embodies a broader appreciation for opulence, illustrating the diverse manifestation of living spaces that resonate with varying socioeconomic contexts.
The singular room category at Ella, Ghiri consists of a villa featuring a bedroom, living room and ensuite, complemented by an outdoor area that opens breathtaking views of Ella and includes a hot tub for relaxation. Notably, the bedroom can be separated from the living room, providing guests with a sanctuary for complete disconnection and tranquillity.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES
The architecture of the property embodies a modern contemporary style, creating a striking contrast with the conceived interior, which draws inspiration from the bygone British era. This juxtaposition posed a significant challenge in ensuring that the interiors harmoniously complemented the overall architecture and the surrounding environment of the hotel. To honour the core ethos of the Uga brand, it was imperative to integrate Sri Lankan elements into the interior design, enriching the aesthetics while maintaining thematic coherence. Furthermore, the design of the new Uga resort has to address the unique climatic conditions of Ella, necessitating a meticulous selection of materials that could endure the region’s humidity without compromising the overall vision.
The execution of these designs posed another challenge, as local contractors were not typically accustomed to the level of detail I envisioned. Thus, providing comprehensive instruction and maintaining vigilant oversight were crucial to achieving the desired look and feel, ultimately resulting in a successful fusion of styles that respect both heritage and environment.
REFLECTING ON THE DESIGN JOURNEY
I am unable to conceive a design that diverges from my original vision, as the overall aesthetics of the chalet’s ensuite and living area is nothing short of remarkable, embodying precisely what I had imagined. Furthermore, I am particularly pleased with the transformation of the indoor dining courtyard within that main house, where strategically placed tree foresters a tranquil atmosphere. This element, coupled with carefully designed passageways, ensures a seamless integration of the interior with natural surroundings, creating an exquisite harmony between the glamour and nature.
Additionally, the bar, featuring hand-drawn elements inspired by Ella, maintains a distinctly masculine character through its timber moulding and panelling. It stands as a quintessential example of the successful fusion of Sri Lankan essence with British colonial influence, further enriching the overall design narrative of the space.
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