Beautiful very calm space designed and lived in by Geoffrey Bawa. After visiting I wished that I had known about him and visited some of his other places such as the Gallery Cafe. I appreciated the harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary design. The guide was also helpful and charming and it was good to hear that he had also worked for Mr. Bawa when he was alive. Recommended stop.

If you are an architect or studying architecture you must visit this place. Amazing architecture

This is a town house of Late Mr Geoffrey Bawa the greatest sri lankan architect. He is one of the founders of the tropical modernism movement. The house is a great testimonial to the path he took from his barister days to becoming an architect. It's an experiment that was evolving till his death. The opportunity to stay overnight in this magical location as a guest had been a dream come true for me. Greatly admire the house butler Mr Rohana for the exceptional hospitality, amazing food and anecdotes. I have visited this location many times as a visitor. You need to book an appointment for a house tour in advance. You can book the room from the Geoffrey bawa Trust.

A must must visit if you are into art/design/architecture. This is simple a genius work. The tour was very well organised and the staff really knows every single detail of the place/art pieces/stories. FYI, you can book and stay in the upstairs guest house (now operating as hotel) and have access to all the original guest house furniture as well as the great rooftop. Do book the tour/time beforehand. I went there first time without booking and it was closed. So best to write them an email ahead and book your spot

Small tour was held by this Sri Lankan gentlemen (sorry forgot name) who’s spent several years of time with Mr Bawa himself, still works as part of his trust. It was overwhelming to feel how much respect and love he has towards Geoffrey Bawa.. Ofcourse the house is amazing too. As expected.. But I was simply grateful to meet a kind person like him. And also get to know how they treat bawas house so well. Would visit again. Very respectful people and atmosphere.

Had such a wonderful tour around this legend's house. I got a really good and friendly tour guide who explains things really well. And also respect for the maintaining of this treasury space for the future.

Visiting one of my favorite Architects house was a dream come true moment for me. It was just like I had seen in photos and imagined it to be. Extremely well maintained place. Staff is helpful. One needs to book a tour of the house in advance on payment of certain fee. They show a small documentary first and then give you a tour of the house. House is filled with variety of artifacts. Taking photographs is allowed.

90 % of visitors are Japanese. We are big fan of Bawa, this his office is one of the most inspirational, memorable place in Sri Lanka. So much his travel souvenir collections and authentic architecture design matches beautifully, every single part of this space was so personally comfortable and intimate, I really liked and felt blessed visiting this place. The staffs are also the same staffs from his living life, I felt how they love the place too. You can feel what is authentic here.

Lovely place. Really beautiful. Tour guide was very good. I highly recommend a visit.

One of the best examples of adaptive re use in Architecture!!

Firstly when we arrived 15 minutes early for the tour we were very rudely told by the lady who runs the tour that there was no place for us to wait inside. Furthermore be aware that there is no real parking at the residence and no indication of this , if you arrive by car you need to park in the next street. As you enter there is a beautiful vintage car parked in the garage and the current residents personal vehicle parked next to it. Personally if found this a bit tacky and thought the modern car detracted from the overall effect of the space as presented on the tour. The introductory video gives a good description of the house but offers no insight into the life of Geoffrey Bawa or the overall philosophy and design principles of the house. When led inside the house a description of each area and each point of interest is given and a pamphlet with more information is given to visitors . However , the tour guide was not particularly knowledgeable about the house or the life of Bawa. When asked for more insight the tour guide would simply say 'read the pamphlet'. Bawa possesses the most interesting person collection of paintings and sculptures and it is well worth spending time to appreciate each piece. Be aware that inside were the most interesting artifacts of Bawa's personal collection are housed there are no pictures allowed. It is ridiculous to run a professional tour with no place for visitors to wait, surely some small waiting area could be provisioned inside ? We were largely ignored by the tour guide and treated as more of a nuisance than a guest. Personally I think the tour has a lot to be desired for in both in the presentation of the tour and the attitude of the tours management. To present the work of Geoffrey Bawa is a privilege and should be treated with respect ,those who present his work should be passionate and well read and versed in his life and work . However ,having said the above , the work of Geoffrey Bawa speaks for itself and is a definite must for architecture lovers. There is a real sense of lightness and surprise within the house. I would advise visitors to ignore the inadequacy of the tour and the rude staff and simply enjoy the house as it was meant to be enjoyed.

This is Bawa's house. You can see his arts and masterpieces. Ticket cost 1000 lkr for both locals and foreigners

Simplicity at its best! I'm sure every Architect/designer has House no.11 in their places to visit list. Built from four smaller bungalows that Mr. Bawa bought and combined over a period of years, the labyrinthine dwelling is punctured by a series of skylights, its spaces varied by changing textures of building material. From large batik work at the entrance to Chettinad columns near open courts, quartz sculpture, Bawa filled the house with interesting art pieces. An interior door painted by Australian artist Donald Friend, an acquaintance of Bawa, is exceptional! He fabricated most of the furniture to suit/match the theme of black and white throughout the house. Visited the property on 7th September 2018 and the terrace was under renovation so unfortunately we couldn't see it. Reservation is necessary and check the timings for guided tour beforehand. A small 10 min video is shown before the tour. Entry costs about LKR 1000 per person. Overall a great experience :)

A must do.very well organised, great tour - very informative and of course stunning interiors and architecture

If interested in Architecture this is a very good option. The house is preserved as it was when Bawa was alive. You get a good tour of the house with detailed explanations.

For all lovers of architecture, this is a ‚must go‘ in Colombo. You still feel the spirit of Geoffrey Bawa, a tour gives you the opportunity to visit his originally furnished rooms and explains the different types of „houses in the house“. They do offer also two room to stay over night, in the former guest rooms. Including a breakfast in the incredible dining room.

Cuz my boyfriend has same first name then I decided to have a look 😂 But it worth, I like the design.

Home

A must if you’re a fan of Mr. Bawa. The house is properly maintained and well-kept, the guide was friendly and informative. A must is a visit to the rooftop garden to get a view of Colombo and the entire property.

Nicely designed.

Visited: Sep 7, 2018 This place is a must visit for Architects. The house is beautifully done with special importance given to placement of each and every item in the house. There are beautiful art works, batiks, imported furniture etc which give a aesthetic look to the house. The house is an amalgamation of outside space and inside space. To know what this means you have to visit this house. Pictures don't do justice. Need to book appointment in advance. It is a 45 minute guided tour inside the house.

Wonderful museum, the private sanctuary of Geoffrey Bawa. Ingeniously designed house, warm and stylish. Beautiful terrace at the top. Did not know Colombo could be so peaceful.

Loved visiting Geoffrey Bawa’s number 11! The tour was educational, the staff were friendly and welcoming! The location was well maintained and perfect for lovers of interior as well as architects!

This was one of my favorite experiences in Sri Lanka over a two week visit. It’s a short tour offered twice a day. Call in advance to book. The tour was led by a charming guide through a stunning yet pretty modest home considering the wealth of its owner. Really should be experienced

A tour of the great but you can also stay in the guest house which is highly recommended and includes breakfast in Bawa's own dining room. Rohana took incredible care of us during our overnight stay and his lovely calm manner made the whole experience exceptional.

Ar. Geoffrey bawa was one of the best architect in sri lanka, all the architects best visit

Amazing space! Really enjoyed staying here

On the occasion of the garden’s 75th anniversary, the Geoffrey Bawa Trust explores the intertwining of art and ecology; particularly in the ways we understand nature and the natural; archives and rituals; food and healing. Dedicated to the garden , and using the garden as a lens for engagement, the Trust’s curatorial team will explore multivocal projects across generations and geographies.

A guided tour to Geoffrey Bawa’s (one of the founders of tropical modernism) town house it is an absolute must to know more about Sri Lankan architecture and culture.

The house is clearly a great window to learning about Geoffery Bawa and his architectural style. However the tour was disappointing. The staff are courteous and friendly, but do a poor job of sharing information about Bawa’s life, inspiration, influences or achievements-which we would have loved to learn more about. While on the tour they merely point out various pieces of furniture and mention when they were bought or made, and by whom. It has the potential to be much, much better, especially since it is also a paid tour.

Fabulous home that's fascinating to tour, rather than just imagine through photographs. Truly a master of inside-outside spaces, you really get a sense of Bawa's mastery throughout. Our 45 minute tour was led by Laki who's extensive knowledge of the property and contents as well as Bawa's life were impressive. For architecture, design and interior junkies, highly recommended. Reserve a place via the website and pay in cash upon arrival. Currently, foreign visitors tickets are 1000Rs.

The harmony of spaces around intimate open courts inspire a lifestyle best suited to the tropical climate. A must visit for those willing to draw inspiration from the master we know as Bawa!

Nice to learn a bit about Bawa history. Highly recommended for anyone interested in architecture of course.

Loved to have seen the work of Mr.Bawa where he lived and conceived his ideas. He wakes up to a double height window with a beautiful tree! Loved every aspect of his thought process in forming this stunning piece of Architecture.

The Sri Lankan Architect Geoffrey Bawa is now regarded as having been one of the most important and influential Asian architects of the twentieth century. His international standing was confirmed in 2001 when he received the special chairman’s award in the eighth cycle of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, becoming only the third architect and the first non-Moslem to be so honoured since the award’s inception..... Excellent spot to visit as an architect

Well-preserved Bawa’s architectural design , This Place has inspired me a lot in my designs, I loved this place a lot .

This has been an absolute highlight for me while visiting Sri Lanka. The tour is very well managed, with an extremely knowledgable guide who does not rush you around and allows you to explore at your own pace. The interiors are striking and the history and context behind it all makes for a superb hour long visit. I highly recommend this attraction. Even those with just a basic interest in architecture and interior design will enjoy it. Thank you for providing me with such an enjoyable and memorable visit! Lawrence

Interesting and inspirational! (Along with his other properties including his university in Matara, The Last House in Senemodera, and Lunaganga.) Great that it's possible to book to stay! Wonderful Geoffrey Bawa's style and his support of other artists/friends in the region.

This is our go to place in Colombo and we'd be very sad if Nr 11 were booked and we'd have to stay elsewhere. Rohana is the perfect host, who makes you feel at home from the moment you set foot into Nr 11. The former city home of Sri Lanka's most famous architect, Geoffrey Bawa, was ours for a day and a night again and we made the most of every minute of our stay. Staying here, you will always be the only guest with wonderful Rohana being at your service whenever needed. With a little bit of luck, Rohana will tell you more about not only the house but also Mr Bawa, as Rohana worked for him for several years. An invaluable side attraction to staying in Nr 11, especially if you have interest and Geoffrey Bawa's amazing architecture and its influence on the rest of South East Asian modern architecture. Nr 11 is a rare treat not to be missed. Thank you, Rohana!

A can't miss experience in Colombo! Geoffrey Bawa's house is a gorgeous reworking of four houses on a traditional alley, a surprisingly modern space filled with beautiful art and design. Of interest to anyone, not just students of architecture, and with rooms available for short stays. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, and fans of classic cars will love his Rolls and Mercedes, which are parked inside the property like the works of art they are. Keep an eye out for his racing trophies!

Wonderful tour of Bawa’s living quarters! Would be ideal if you did a tour at lunu ganga as well. There are tour times and is not always open. About 1.3km from the national museum of colombo

There is something truly inspiring about this residence, take the tour and I'm sure that when you leave you will already be thinking creatively!

You don't have to be a fan of the late and great Geoffrey Bawa to be enchanted by your stay at Home Number 11. It is a working museum to say the least. From the design to the art collection in every corner, the historical significance of the place is invaluable. Now if you happen to be a fan of the architect, then there is no greater privilege than staying at his home.

Geoffrey Bawa is a genius architect and timeless designer.

A rare insight into the residence and work of this prominent Sri Lankan architect. The aesthetics of the house are outstanding and a perfection in design and the explanation given by the guide was inspiring. I suggest making this visit after you have been to his two main creations, Heritance Kandalama - for which I’ve also done a review and the resort he built in Bentota. If you are not visiting these two places, then you definitely need to include them into your trip to Sri Lanka. The tour takes approximately 45 mins and you are allowed to take photographs everywhere except the personal spaces that were Bawa’s living and working areas. You need to book in advance for the tour and it’s best to email them well ahead to fix a date and time as they do limited groups of approximately 20 people at one time.

One of the minimal and Example house for Architects

Will help you to understand Mr Geoffrey Bava as a person as this was his home and office. The house is not perfect but this house was his gateway to the world of architecture. His sort of workshop or guinea pig to his various other designs.

For those interested in Geoffrey Bawa and Sri Lankan Tropical Modernism in Architecture

(Translated by Google) Fashionable. Fashionable. No doubt, it's hot. If you really like design, I think it's good. It was hard for me to like it. The English explanation is long, so I can't understand. (Original) おしゃれ。オシャレ。間違いないけど、暑いです。本当にデザインが好きな人なら、良いと思います。そこそこ好きには、辛かったです。英語の説明も長いので、、理解できず。

Experience in itself whether you are an architect or not! Pre-book in advance.

Good place to know the history of Geoffrey Bawa. With the help of guide, you can find many his ideas in the house.

Worth to visit during Colombo city tour

Entrance ticket is only rs.1000. And it's worth the price

Nice place

Super place. But has to get a appointment prior.

Very interesting, thought provoking

Very inspirational place

The architect was so ahead of his time in so many ways. Simply awesome.

Could only view from outside as hotel was closed. Nice clean architectural style.

Place of Pilgrimage for artists and architects. Lovely collection and we'll preserved. Shows off his style and penchant for having the right piece of art and right piece of furniture in the right place. Well ventilated with small cutouts to let out the heat, bring in light and minimum rainfall into the house. Need to make appointments online before visiting. Small place, tightly managed, no nonsense.

They have instructor sharing Bawa stories. It s a good way to learn more Bawa.

Architecture lovers or just wanting some inspiration for your home decor, a nice place to see his life's works and home in the peaceful alley of Colombo

Any fan of Geoffery Bawa must visit his house. Reuse of old tiles for the floor and the effect of natural light is inspiring. A gem for any interior designer and architect! You can head to the website and book a tour, you can also stay in the only room available.

Amazing architectural works! What an amazing taste in aethetical architecture! Blissful ambiance within the walls!

There are several tastefully architectured houses in Srilanka. This is one of them.

Pretty mesmerising place but the tour guide didn't add much value from what was played on the dvd, at the beginning of the journey..

Very good and respectful

Such amazing example of sustainable architecture. The guide is very friendly as well. Overall a very nice experience.

Special but cannot speified

(Translated by Google) The home and office of Geoffrey Bawa, a Sri Lankan designer who is highly regarded around the world. You can experience the wonderful design that can be seen everywhere Full of highlights such as rooms, spaces, furniture, etc. Currently, some can be used as a hotel (Original) 世界的にも評価の高いスリランカのデザイナー、ジェフリーバワ氏の自宅兼オフィスだった所 随所に見られる素晴らしいデザインを体験出来る 部屋、空間、調度品等々　見所満載　現在一部を利用してホテルとして利用出来る

Bawa's works are amazing! This house is a very creative structure that is a combination of some.of the old existing structures along with new additions. It's been very well maintained and was a pleasure to have had the chance to look at some of the furnitures, sculptures designed by Bawa and his friends. The guide was very friendly. He has even had the pleasure of being with Bawa for 4 years.

Geoffrey Bawa's own house for around 40 years (he shifted his office here later).

Pilgrimage to the Mastef

a temple to his practical and tasteful genius

Besides a well-preserved Bawa’s architectural design and collection of art pieces with great taste and style, guide and all staff members are very friendly and helpful. It was totally different from negative review that made me tense prior to visit the house, but soon it felt natural. The staff was really great and helpful even prior/after the tour. I will definitely come here again to stay overnight. Worth a visit. Two thumbs up !!!

There is no car park, there is no place to turn your vehicle so you will have to reverse all the way back to the main road. There is no waiting area. Nothing to see. Do not spend your time.. they just selling Geoffery Bawa's name and they are destroying Bawa's name..

Although a bit expensive, it is worth the experience, especially if you appreciate refined and sensitive Tropical architecture.

Better to put a fair knowledgeable person to answer the phone

(Translated by Google) Next time I want to stay. (Original) 次回は、泊まってみたいです。

Awesome insight into the local architectural genius

The receipts. No proper entertainment. Very ugly

Interesting collection

Great experience. New things to learn from the house designed by great Ar. Joffery Bawa