Kandy Myst by Cinnamon sets benchmark as first LEED Gold certified hotel In Kandy

From left: Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Vice President, Engineering and Projects Ashvin Cabraal, Manager, Engineering and Projects Ashvin Jayahanthan, Design Team 3 Project Architect Athula Amarasekera, Nawaloka Construction Company CEO/Director Kalana Alwis, Kandy Myst by Cinnamon General Manager Dhinal Perera, EnergySolve International CEO Mahendra Jayalath, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Area General Manager, Central and East Sri Lanka Resorts Murfad Shariff and Director, Sales and Marketing Shavinda Jinadasa 

Kandy Myst by Cinnamon, the newest addition to the Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts portfolio developed in partnership with Indra Traders Ltd., has become the first hotel in Kandy to be awarded the prestigious LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification under the globally recognised LEED v4 Building Design and Construction (BD+C) rating system. This milestone reflects the hotel’s strong commitment to advancing sustainability, protecting the environment, and fostering the well-being of its guests and community.

The principal design consultant for the project was Design Team 3 from Singapore, while the execution was carried out under a Design and Build contract by Nawaloka Construction Company Ltd. The project adhered to stringent quality standards and complied with the requirements of the US Green Building Council, culminating in the prestigious LEED Gold certification.

The certification reflects the hotel’s successful integration of advanced green building strategies, guided by EnergySolve International Ltd., the sustainability consultant behind the project. Through innovative design and engineering, Kandy Myst by Cinnamon has established itself as a benchmark for eco-conscious hospitality in Sri Lanka.

Key sustainability highlights at Kandy Myst by Cinnamon: 

nCarbon and energy performance: 730 tons of CO2e  avoided annually through high-efficiency HVAC, LED lighting, and advanced envelope design; 15% overall energy savings. 

nWater conservation: 16 million litres of water saved annually via rainwater harvesting, onsite wastewater treatment, and efficient plumbing fixtures, achieving a 50% reduction in potable water use. 

nSustainable site strategies: 30% of the site dedicated to native green spaces, with heat island mitigation measures including reflective roofing and shaded parking. 

nMobility and accessibility: EV charging stations, priority parking for low-emission vehicles, and easy access to public transport. 

nConstruction and materials: Over 80% of construction waste diverted from landfill, extensive use of recycled materials, and strong pollution prevention measures. 

nIndoor environmental quality: Fresh air systems exceeding ASHRAE standards, low-VOC materials, and optimal daylighting for occupant wellness.

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Chief Executive Officer Designate Hishan Singhawansa said: “At Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, sustainability is not just a responsibility but a core part of our business philosophy. Achieving LEED Gold certification for our latest hotel, Kandy Myst by Cinnamon, is a milestone that reinforces our commitment to building a future where responsible tourism and exceptional guest experiences go hand in hand.”

EnergySolve International CEO Mahendra Jayalath said: “Kandy Myst by Cinnamon is the first hotel in Kandy to receive the LEED Gold certification, reflecting the power of sustainable design and execution. From energy-efficient systems to water reuse and green construction practices, this project demonstrates how hotels can align comfort with environmental stewardship. We are proud to have partnered with Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in setting a new standard for sustainable hospitality in Sri Lanka.”

With ESG principles embedded into its operations, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts continues to champion responsible tourism, energy efficiency, and community empowerment across all its properties. From pioneering green building standards to driving biodiversity conservation and socio-economic upliftment, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts stands at the forefront of shaping a more sustainable and resilient hospitality industry in the region.