Geoffrey Bawa. Architecture for the Senses

Geoffrey Bawa is widely regarded as one of the most influential architects of twentieth-century Asia. His buildings forged a unique connection between modernism, landscape, and cultural context. »Geoffrey Bawa: Architecture for the Senses« offers an engaging introduction to his work through previously unpublished archival material, newly commissioned photography by Iwan Baan, and contributions and contributions from leading authors, architects, and contemporary voices.

Published to accompany the major retrospective at the Vitra Design Museum, this richly illustrated volume provides a comprehensive exploration of the life and work of Geoffrey Bawa (1919–2003). Over a career spanning five decades and more than 200 projects, the Sri Lankan architect developed an approach that understood buildings not as isolated objects but as immersive experiences shaped by landscape, climate, culture, and everyday life.

At the heart of the publication is an extensive selection of drawings, models,photographs, and documents from the Geoffrey Bawa Trust. Many of these materials are published here for the first time, offering rare insights into Bawa’s creative process, working methods, and collaborations with artists, craftspeople, and clients.

Thoughtfully curated and richly illustrated, the book explores key projects including Lunuganga, the Bentota Beach Hotel, and the Kandalama Hotel, revealing how Bawa transformed architecture into a sensory experience. Historic archival material is complemented by newly commissioned photographs by Iwan Baan, which capture the remarkable relationship between Bawa’s buildings and their natural surroundings.

Essays by Johan Deurell, Irina Selzer, Shayari de Silva, Aneesha Mustachi, Ikko Yokoyama, and Iris Ng illuminate different aspects of Bawa’s work and legacy.Interviews with Lina Ghotmeh, Kengo Kuma, Marina Tabassum, and Tatiana Bilbao further demonstrate the continuing relevance of his ideas on ecology, sustainability, and place-making.

Featuring 272 illustrations across 272 pages, Geoffrey Bawa: Architecture for the Senses is at once an exhibition catalogue, a reference work, and a source of inspiration—a celebration of an architect whose work continues to redefine the relationship between architecture, nature, art, and design.