In Search of Bawa: Master Architect of Sri Lanka

Talisman Publishing is pleased to announce the publication of a new book that showcases 45 of Geoffrey Bawa’s extant buildings in Sri Lanka. For the first time, a varied itinerary of Bawa buildings is included in one easy-to-carry book.

Written by eminent Bawa scholar, David Robson, and photographed by Sebastian Posingis, a photographer with long ties to Sri Lanka, the book will be an eye-opener for Bawa fans. Not only is there a plethora of contemporary photos that showcase the buildings, there are many drawings, anecdotes, plans and sketches that have been under wraps at the Bawa Trust — and are now published for the first time.  

The book takes a fresh look at Bawa’s legacy some 15 years after his death. Robson not only taught architecture in Sri Lanka, he was a personal friend of Geoffrey Bawa, so his insights answer some important questions about Sri Lanka’s most famous architect. 

A large part of the book is given over to a detailed introduction that delves into Bawa’s world, life, education and work. This is followed by a site-by-site tour of 45 of his buildings scattered throughout Sri Lanka. 

Including private homes, hotels, office buildings and more, many are considered “pilgrimage sites” by up-and-coming architects, designers and lay people interested in Bawa’s extraordinary and enduring talent. The book ends with a brief section on buildings that have been transformed, lost or are at risk for one reason or another.

Available now at the Barefoot Bookshop, the book will appeal to architects, students and the lay person interested in Sri Lanka and its architectural heritage.