Wild Coast Tented Lodge | Yala National Park, Sri Lanka | 2017

Architects: Nomadic Resorts
Client: Resplendent Ceylon
General Contractor: Nomadic Resorts
Photographers: Aerial Photo Credits: Nomadic Resorts Building | Interior Photo Credits: Marc Hernandez Folguera

Wild Coast Tented Lodge is a 36-tent safari camp located adjacent to Yala National Park, on the southern tip of Sri Lanka. Scattered across Yala’s semi-arid landscape and along the coastline are massive rocky outcrops; these impressive landmarks function as habitat for wildlife and are host to sacred sites.

These round formations are echoed at a micro scale by termite mounds and suspended bees’ hives found throughout the park. 

To create a natural fit into Yala’s landscape, the architecture of the camp adopts a human scale between the existing macro and micro forms and derives its inspiration from these intriguing natural formations.

From afar, the large pavilions appear solid but upon closer inspection, they’re revealed as light, open-air structures.

Their domed construction is crafted from a woven grid shell bamboo structure clad in reclaimed teak shingles. Large, arched openings and high vaulted ceilings create a strong sense of space.

Concentric horizontal ventilation slits help reduce the volumes to a more human scale. As the shingles weather, the buildings will age gracefully over time, and gain a patina that naturally complements the surrounding stone.

These large, open pavilions intersect with smaller enclosed domes that house more private functions such as the library and restrooms.

Whereas the architecture focuses on the outer form of the boulders, the interior takes inspiration from the treasures concealed within them such as caves, crystals and veins of precious minerals.

Capturing a sense of discovery, adventure and enchantment, the interior combines ecological luxury and local elegance with a contemporary edge.

Local materials such as stone, quartz and mud brick are paired with a rich palette of copper, brass, terrazzo, wood, bamboo and textiles.

A strong focus is placed on high quality materials that age gracefully. Sculptural light installations punctuate the main spaces.