Department of Coffee - Kandy

Project Description

Located on Colombo Street in the historic heart of Kandy, this project involved the adaptive reuse and restoration of a heritage-listed building. Due to its protected status, structural modifications were kept to a minimum, preserving the integrity and character of the original architecture.

The design approach embraced simplicity and authenticity, retaining and celebrating the building’s existing fabric. Both the interior and exterior were left largely untouched, allowing the patina and architectural history to remain visible and appreciated. Services and mechanical systems were deliberately exposed, creating a raw, industrial contrast to the heritage context. The flooring was finished in micro cement, contributing to the minimalist aesthetic while ensuring durability.

A layer of warmth and texture was added through the use of handcrafted cane lighting, which complemented the raw material palette and introduced a subtle local artisanal element to the space.

Restoration work was carried out in 2022, with the café fit-out completed between 2023 and 2024.