Yasoja

What initially drew you to the Ratnapura Gem Mountain Resort project?

Ratnapura is one of the main cities in Sri Lanka which has an identity to its   name. “Rathna ” mainly gives the image of gems in Sinhala and “pura” a designation gives the meaning of city of gems. 

My main inspiration was highly based on how the gems are found. Therefore a picture drawn in my mind was a prominent structure of a gem mine. Which emphasizes the character of finding gems.

My initial sketch of the form and shape which I drew is attached here to give my feeling in a more artistic manner.

How did the unique location atop a jungle mountain in Sri Lanka influence your design choices?

The unique location influenced me from its inception creating excitement and adventure, climbing and experiencing different sequences of climatic changes and viewing existing views  and enjoying the beauty of nature.

Were there any specific elements of traditional Sri Lankan architecture that inspired your designs?

 The most unique structure which influence me was the traditional mining form. This is a very traditional form which they maintain for a long time.

How did you prioritize sustainability in your architectural choices?

 Most of the spaces are designed with natural materials creating the atmosphere more sustainable and unique.

What eco-friendly materials were chosen, and why?

Brick walls, Rubble foundations, Timber roofs and cement floors, natural floor finishes, bamboo wall wrappings and cinnamon wall wrappings give the characters and form more prominent emerge as a part of nature.

How did you design for energy efficiency given the resort's remote location?

All the spaces are designed to enjoy & experience the beauty of nature, therefore all spaces

are allocated to get maximum daylight and ventilation with very open concepts. And the solar 

the system will incorporate light and ventilation at the time the natural light is not sufficient.

How did you ensure the architecture blended seamlessly with the natural surroundings of the jungle mountain?

Most of the structures are designed to blend with nature by creating more open spaces, verandahs and view points etc. Also, the materials used to create special demarcates are Bricks, Rubble, Timber etc. which blend very close with nature and stand out as a part of it. Outer appearance of the structure is also designed to camouflage and stand out and blend with nature.

What measures were taken to minimize disruption to the local ecosystem during construction?

All the structures are designed and allocated at the best locations without damaging the 

environment. Preparation of locations, transportations of goods & cleaning the site locations are concentrated with minimum damage to its environment.

How does the design capitalize on the natural vistas and panoramas available at the location?

The design itself is mainly based on the panoramic views and the rare experience to view the beauty of nature and habitat. The main spaces are oriented to view the best panoramic views of the location. The secondary spaces are oriented to create different locations & enjoy different views. For example, the main common space is at the peak of the location giving the view of 3600. The secondary spaces are placed to get a view of 1800.

What were the most significant architectural challenges faced during the design of the resort?

It was very hard even to visit the site at the beginning. since there was no proper road network. We had to walk 3km to reach the site. While designing we had to visit many times. It was very hard for us to concentrate on the design matters After a hectic journey.  But the dedication of my staff and the all team members we managed to create the dream

projects.

How did you overcome geographical challenges, like the mountainous terrain?

The most difficult part we faced was the difficulty analyzing the land formation due to its high grown trees & Serbs. Therefore, we had to reach the location & get level differences manually. The worst areas we manage to identify by drone videos and topographical views. But it took a long period to clearly identify the location thoroughly.

Were there any particular flora or fauna in the area that posed challenges or offered opportunities for the design?

Yes, we were able to identify very expensive flora and fauna like agarwood, Many varieties of fruits and rare flowersThese identified locations are divided into zones and certain zones we allocated as jungles for the visitors to view which they have not seen before. 

How did you collaborate with senior architects and other team members during the project?

At the initial design stage all architects have to gather and analyze each person’s ideas and their design formations and concepts to achieve the ultimate goal. After analyzing it separately all of us got together and concentrated on one pathway to develop the most significant concept. 

How did you ensure the design met the specific needs and aspirations of the stakeholders?

After a thorough study of all constraints we managed to overcome challenges and solved them one by one with the participation of all consultants and team members involved at the project. What feedback loops were in place for revising and refining the designs?

We had faced many identified issues during the design process. Land formation The wind The rain Earth shapes The road network etc. which revised the design many times to overcome design obligations. 

How did you ensure the resort provided a unique and memorable experience for its guests?

The Gem mountain design and the concept highly based on educational,entertainment and adventure experiencing a product not seen in any part of the country. The approach from Rathnapura to the destination will develop curiosity and adventurous feelings for guests. The highly concentrated design structures and the villas will create wonderful images related to mining and gem related activities. In addition, the design itself is based on creating the view of the mountain atmosphere and experiencing the uniqueness of the resort. 

Were there any specific amenities or facilities you designed that cater to the eco-conscious traveler? Eco conscious travelers can enjoy the journey from start to end by experiencing mountain climbing, Glamping, differentiation of climatic conditions and experiencing the beauty of nature & dealing with different flora and fauna. The resort itself will provide nature-oriented structures which emerge to the mountain and create the image of a mountain background.

How were the guest villas or rooms positioned to ensure privacy while maximizing views?

All villas are designed in the vicinity of the mountain range focusing to enjoy the panoramic views, maintain different land formations creating natural green belts and positioning not to interfere with each other.

How did the design incorporate or reflect the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka?

The design itself is influenced by old architectural structures of Sri – Lanka, the creation will collaborate with craftsmen, artists, and expertise of different backgrounds focusing to achieve the ultimate masterpiece. 

Were there any collaborations with local artisans or craftsmen?

Yes, there are collaborations with artists, mining people & craftsmen and specialists in different fields etc.

How does the resort engage guests with the local Ratnapura gem-mining heritage?

The resort itself is designed as a meeting place for guests to study, view and experience the gem mining process. 

What was your biggest takeaway or lesson learned from participating in this project?

If you worked methodically any obligation you face could be tackled to achieve your goal easily. 

If given a chance, is there anything you'd do differently in the design or execution phases?

No, I have analyzed the whole process properly and created the best.

How has the Ratnapura Gem Mountain Resort project influenced your architectural aspirations for future projects?

 This is a project developed with a high concentrated concept and created echo friendly spaces and two components are emerging perfectly as a design creating Architecture. This is a very high achievement in my life. This will give me the motivation to design any project with different concepts.

If given a chance, is there anything you'd do differently in the design or execution phases?

The whole concept is based on creating Eco friendly spaces, therefore all the structures are signed to give the best outcome to experience the image. 

Do you have a favorite spot or design feature within the resort? What makes it special for you?

The restaurant structure is designed as a mining center with all amenities and background for a visitor to experience the definition.

Are there any specific design methodologies or eco-conscious principles you've adopted as a result of this experience?

Yes, methodically I learned from gem mountain resort is to create a concept to blend with your imaginations and work to achieve a realistic product.

How do you envision the resort evolving over time, and how have you catered to that in your designs?

My envision of the resort would be a symbolic mining Centre on the mountain terrain which blends with nature and emerges into the mountain experiencing the image of gems.