Sasakawa Trust unveils Rs. 3 b Nippon Office Building in Ward Place

Thursday, 11 June 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

A striking new addition to Colombo’s commercial skyline will be unveiled today (11) with the opening of the Nippon Office Building, a landmark office development commissioned by the Sasakawa Memorial Sri Lanka–Japan Cultural Centre Trust.

Designed by Design Consortium International Ltd. (DCIL) under the direction of Principal Architect Migara Alwis, the project reflects a bold new direction in Sri Lanka’s commercial architecture through its contemporary design, sustainable features, and innovative engineering solutions.

The Rs. 3 billion project, located at No. 85, Ward Place, Colombo 07, comprises three basement levels, a ground floor, and ten upper floors. Construction commenced with piling works in June 2022, while the main contract works began in January 2024.

Conceived as a next-generation office complex, the Nippon Office Building combines advanced building technologies, flexible spatial planning, and environmentally responsible design principles to create a modern workplace focused on efficiency, sustainability, and user well-being.

One of the project’s defining architectural features is its unconventional footprint, which evolved from the unique geometry of the site itself. The design responds directly to the surrounding urban context, creating a distinctive structure that contributes positively to Colombo’s evolving cityscape.

The building incorporates a hybrid structural system combining reinforced concrete and structural steel construction, while its façade integrates steel elements with high-performance energy-efficient glazing to balance aesthetic appeal with environmental performance.

Sustainability has been a major focus throughout the project, with advanced mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems integrated to improve operational efficiency and reduce long-term energy consumption.

DCIL, one of Sri Lanka’s leading multidisciplinary consultancy practices, brought together specialists in Architecture, Civil and Structural Engineering, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Quantity Surveying, and Project Management to deliver the integrated design solution.

The opening of the Nippon Office Building is expected to mark a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s commercial property sector, establishing a new benchmark for modern office developments through its innovative design and commitment to sustainability.

The event will be attended by The Nippon Foundation Chairman Yohei Sasakawa, Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka Akio Isomata, and Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya.