First green rest in Asia opens

Canowin Arcade; Sri Lanka's newly completed, largest and fully equipped rest stop situated at the 44km milepost on either side of the Southern Expressway that stretches from Kottawa to Galle.

Based on the "Ambalama" concept with a contemporary twist; the building serves as a respite for travellers, and also incorporates new materials and technology in its architecture bringing forth innovative elements previously unseen in Sri Lanka.

It is the only rest stop in Asia equipped with the latest Green technologies and registered for LEED(r) for Core and Shell(tm) GOLD (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Core and Shell Development) certification from the United States Green Building Council.

The "Green ispiration" comprises of; energy efficient air conditioning, CFL and LED lighting, increased use of daylight to replace artificial lighting, potable water saving of 300,000 gallons per annum, re-using and diverting of construction waste, extensive use of recycled material for construction, storm water quality control measures and use of performance glass minimizing heat transfer; significantly reducing the ecological footprint from construction to operation of the facilities.

The concave structures stem from the nearby earth bunds. Exposed tubular structural members help maintain the roof supporting structure.

The challenge was to choose a sustainable and cost efficient structural framework to compliment the green building concept, whilst having the least carbon dioxide tonnage, as well as ensuring construct ability, durability and maintainability in the long term. Different materials were chosen as structural elements to depict the different functional requirements of the building space.

Majority of the building comprises of re-used structural steel while the rear section and mid portions of the building were designed with R.C.C framework and flat roof to accommodate mechanical gear as well as satisfying the fire rating required for a kitchen.

The spaces within consist of a food court, supermarket, fine dining restaurant, drive-through dining options, retail outlets, cyber café, children's play area, ATM facilities and an external toilet block. Bearing in mind, ample space for parking; including parking space for buses. The near future is also scheduled to include fuel stations.

In addition to the view, road trips on the Southern Expressway can now provide more entertainment than an average bathroom break and snacks; ensuring a comfortable and safe travel along the Expressway.

Consortium Consultants, Prefer Associates (Pvt) Ltd; with their experience in Architectural, Engineering, Project Management, MEP and QS Services have endeavored to achieve an appealing yet sophisticated equilibrium between the traveling community and the built environment.