The Vibe: A thoroughly contemporary design that pays homage to its natural context and love for Sri Lanka’s 20th-century modernist architect Geoffrey Bawa.

The Area: Harding Boutique Hotel is set in a palm grove directly on Ahangama beach. Galle is a half-hour drive.

The DNA: ‘My great uncle was one of the first hoteliers and great pioneers of tourism in the country, opening what was then the Blue Lagoon – the country’s first hotel designed by Geoffrey Bawa – the father of Sri-Lankan modernist architecture,’ says the client, Sri Lankan-Australian hotelier Paul Harding. Architect Jonathan Ashmore was captivated by this piece of history and sought to connect with it, exploring the verdant island with its pristine beaches and wealth of architectural legacy. At the heart of the building sits the open staircase, entirely cross-ventilated and cooled by the coastal prevailing wind. Intimate nooks placed on the mid-landing encourages guests and visitors to pause, contemplate, or even engage in impromptu conversations with those located above, below or across levels, from inside to out.

Suite-Me-Up: The suites come in two sizes: the larger Signature suites offer (partial) Indian Ocean views while the Garden Suites have palm grove views.

Seen: e-architect, Wallpaper*

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 6 rooms & suites (25-30m2) (270-325 sq ft) • hotel opened: 2022 • architecture & interior design: ANARCHITECT • bathroom amenities: Grown Alchemist ✅ free on-site parking • no pets allowed