Casa Colombo
This 200-year-old Moorish mansion, originally built by a wealthy Indian trading family, has been carefully restored as a stunning 12-room boutique hotel, ending years of neglect by numerous tenants, including the Government's Department of Census and Statistics. The restoration of this magnificent heritage property is a triumph for its owner, Lalin Jinasena, a lifestyle designer and entrepreneur. Casa is a tribute to his creative talents and Sri Lankan craftsmanship (all items from lighting, furniture and fabrics have been produced locally). The original components of this heritage property - intricate mosaic floors, molded ceilings, elaborate columns and arches, ornate balconies and window awnings - have all been retained and blended successfully with vibrant colours, neon lighting, contemporary furniture using elements of cement hard wood, brushed steel, and copper, black and white photography, and the latest in HiFi and WiFi cutting-edge technology. The end result is a contemporary boutique hotel that prides itself on a highly personalized service. The idea here is for guests to make Casa Colombo their home away from home. There is no reception desk; instead, from the moment you touch down in Colombo's airport, the Casa limousine, a vintage Austin, awaits you with your own personal domo who will from then on attend to your every need, whether it is a fresh glass of juice by the side of the pool, an excursion to the beach, or respect for your wish to be left to your own thoughts.