Reinforcing its long-standing commitment to architecture, design excellence and the advancement of Sri Lankan living spaces, LANKATILES has announced a strategic partnership with the Geoffrey Bawa Trust to support its acclaimed DesignTalk platform, the Annual Geoffrey Bawa Memorial Lecture and other knowledge-sharing initiatives that continue to inspire and cultivate Sri Lanka's architectural community.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue, encouraging creative exchange and supporting the continued evolution of architecture in Sri Lanka. By aligning with the enduring legacy of Geoffrey Bawa, LANKATILES seeks to contribute to platforms that cultivate future talent while strengthening its engagement with the country's architectural fraternity.
For over five decades, LANKATILES has been guided by a deep respect for thoughtful design, craftsmanship and innovation. Throughout its journey, the company has consistently invested in products, technologies and initiatives that enhance the way Sri Lankans design, build and experience spaces. This latest collaboration further reinforces the company's belief that design extends beyond buildings to shape communities, culture and lasting legacies.
A highly influential architect and visionary, Geoffrey Bawa (1919 – 2003) is remembered for his prolific work and remarkable ability for enduring design that embeds itself into a place and moment. In addition to producing over 200 original architectural designs around Sri Lanka and the region, Geoffrey Bawa was also known for his innovative work in interiors and furniture design. Established by the architect in 1982, the Geoffrey Bawa Trust works to foster architecture, arts and environmental studies in Sri Lanka and abroad. Since Geoffrey Bawa’s passing in 2003, the Trust has maintained the architect’s archives and sustained year-round public programmes, such as lectures, tours and exhibitions, that engage broad discourse on natural and built environments and the arts. Based at the Bawa Space in Colombo 07 - which serves as the Trust offices and public gallery space — the Trust champions architecture as a living discipline, fostering dialogue on design, heritage and the future of the built environment through programmes such as Design Talks and the Annual Geoffrey Bawa Memorial Lecture. These initiatives continue to inspire architects, designers, academics and students while creating meaningful opportunities for the exchange of ideas across generations.
Speaking on the partnership, Priyantha Talwatte, Managing Director of LANKATILES PLC, said:
"Our association with the work of Geoffrey Bawa and the Trust is rooted in a shared belief that architecture shapes not just spaces, but cultural identity and legacy. As a brand built over five decades, LANKATILES takes great pride in standing alongside a community that continues to inspire, mentor and shape the next generation of architects. This engagement reflects our commitment to nurturing meaningful dialogue and contributing to a design culture that endures."
Channa Daswatte, Chairperson of the Geoffrey Bawa and Lunuganga Trusts , added:
“The Trust supports a dynamic calendar of year-round public programmes, including exhibitions, lectures and tours that engage with the natural and built environment. In working with the Trust, LANKATILES is not only supporting this important work, but is also helping the Trust grow these programmes and supporting Sri Lanka’s architectural and design community.”
This collaboration brings together two institutions united by a common purpose-to champion design excellence, encourage architectural discourse and invest in the continued advancement of Sri Lanka's built environment. By supporting platforms that celebrate knowledge, creativity and innovation, LANKATILES and the Geoffrey Bawa Trust reaffirm their shared commitment to shaping the future of architecture while preserving the values that have defined its past.
For over five decades, LANKATILES has remained committed to creating spaces people love to live in. Beyond manufacturing world-class tiles and surface solutions, the company has consistently invested in innovation, education and partnerships that elevate Sri Lanka's architectural and design landscape. This collaboration with the Geoffrey Bawa Trust further strengthens that commitment, reinforcing LANKATILES' role as a long-term partner in shaping a more inspiring, sustainable and design-led future for generations to come.

