Palinda Kannangara
Sri Lankan architect Palinda Kannangara has a background in both mathematics and architecture. He graduated in 1996 with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Sciences, specializing in mathematics, before pursuing architecture through the study programme of the Sri Lanka Institute of Architects, which he joined in 1994. Palinda received his Charter in 2004 and established his independent practice in 2005. His studio is based in Rajagiriya, Sri Lanka.
Palinda Kannangara Architects is known for an experiential architectural approach grounded in simplicity and a deep connection to the natural environment. The practice is recognized for its contextual sensitivity, crafted material expression, and restrained minimalism reflective of the Sri Lankan ethos. The firm’s work spans diverse landscapes across Sri Lanka and, more recently, India, from the dry zone and wetlands to coastal regions, often engaging with projects modest in scale yet rich in spatial intent.
Over sixteen years of practice, the studio has received several prestigious national and international awards. Its own studio in Rajagiriya won the RIBA International Award for Excellence in Architecture in 2018. More recently, the firm received the RIBA International Award for Excellence for Artist Retreat, Pittugala, and the 5th Triennial Geoffrey Bawa Award for Excellence in Architecture 2021 for Frame Holiday Structure, Imaduwa. The practice’s work has also been featured in El Croquis Monograph 212.
