Geoffrey Bawa's Ratnam Residence Transforms into Colombo's Latest Boutique Hotel

Announced December 16, 2025, the Ratnam Residence, a hitherto intimate building by renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, has officially opened its doors as a boutique hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka's vibrant capital. According to Wallpaper* — Travel, only true Bawa enthusiasts were previously aware of this property's existence.

Our take: The transformation of a private Bawa residence into a hotel provides a rare chance to inhabit the spaces of one of Asia's most influential modernists. This opening further solidifies Colombo's growing reputation as a destination for design-conscious travelers, offering a distinct alternative to larger, more conventional luxury accommodations.