‘Architect 2011’ :

Architecting the future

Text and Pictures by Amalshan Gunerathne

With no more rocket shells or mortars to haunt the lands, the time is ripe for the nation to set sail on a fresh expedition on grand modernization. The time is perfect to take the next step towards transforming the island into the glorious kingdom that it once was.

‘The Architect 2011’ campaign provided the ideal spur which is needed to propel the dynamic development process in the country.

Sri Lankan Institute of Architects (SLIA) came together for a yet another annual session with launch of the ‘Architect 2011’ campaign. The event opened in a grand manner with the inauguration ceremony taking place on February 23. ‘Architect 2011’, is perhaps the most feisty and flamboyant event in local construction industry.’

“Many doubted that we will never put an end to the ethnic conflict.

But now that the dream of peace has come true, it is the time to think of bigger schemes. It is time to make Sri Lanka ‘the Wonder of Asia’,” Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa expressed these passionate thoughts at the inauguration ceremony of the ‘Architect 2011’ campaign. The highlight of the campaign is the trade and fare exhibition which opened to the public from yesterday. The exhibition came to an end yesterday (February 27)at the BMICH. This year’s exhibition incorporated over 315 stalls. The exhibition showcased professional designing material from over 260 companies.

In parallel to the event, the architects got together for a national conference to discuss the architect’s role in national development. The conference also concentrated on how to tackle the challenges that architects are faced with in the contemporary times. Representatives from many foreign nations including Vietnam, Sweden and India also attended the event.

The campaign also provided the ideal platform for architects, the construction trade, industry and public to interact with one another. “Our main objective is to create a momentum in the construction industry so that not only those who are in the industry but public will also be benefited from this project,” SLIA President Architect Chandana Edirisuriya stated.

The inauguration was a grand one indeed, where many awards were given to both young and esteemed professionals in recognition for the services they gave to the architectural industry. Architect Christopher John De Seram was given a special award in recognition to the invaluable service that he gave to the architectural education system. Professor Senaka Bandaranayaka was given the award for the honorary membership while veteran architect V LC Gunesekara was given the award for fellow membership.

The Architectural Research 2011 Gold award was given to Professor H P Munasinghe.

The institute also gave away awards for the budding designers and artists. The award for the most innovative display panel was given to Architecture Harsha Fernando.

Many designer awards of excellence and merits awards were also given under different categories. A new publication titled 50 Years of Architecture in Sri Lanka was also launched at the inauguration event. Royal Institute of British Architects President Architect Ruth Reed was also there to grace the inauguration.