Interplay of elements

The creative mind behind the hotel’s design was the late genius architect Geevaka de Zoysa, who was influenced by the serene open-plan architecture of traditional temples. He wanted to craft a hotel that artfully incorporated the timeless elegance of nature with modern creature comforts.  

The end product is a fusion of airy spaces, tranquil waterbodies, and tropical gardens that lend an air of a serene oasis. Iconic architect Geoffrey Bawa's tropical modernism influences can also be traced throughout the property, adding a distinctive touch that makes the Sri Lankan lived-in experience more immersive.  

The hotel's unique design ensures that all 27 luxurious suites open up to the salty ocean breeze and the surf-tipped ocean. Each suite is a harmonious blend of spaciousness and effortless elegance, paying homage to the tropical architectural style of seaside Sri Lanka. Impeccably appointed wooden interiors, Italian leather furniture, and state-of-the-art amenities create an ambience of refined comfort. Some suites even offer the luxury of a private plunge pool, sun-kissed verandahs, or gardens.

Restoring an icon

Over the years, the hotel has witnessed a spate of minor nips and tucks, but its comprehensive makeover has given it the imprimatur of a 21st-century property that also retains its Sri Lankan heritage. The new design follows the template of an open-plan hotel, leveraging its seascape location and abundant natural sunlight to run sustainably and with minimal carbon footprint.  

In its current avatar, the resort’s material palette is understated yet fulsome in detail. The interplay of stone, wood and natural wood furniture gives it a warm, lived-in feel rather than one of overpowering ostentation. Throughout, the interior spaces are marked with subtle lighting: niches holding art collectables; designer furniture in earthy textures, and floors and walls awash in hues of ivory.  

“The restoration of Jetwing Saman Villas marks the renaissance of an icon along Sri Lanka’s southern coast. The hotel was thoughtfully reimagined during a quieter tourism year, ensuring every enhancement is both meaningful and timeless. From the introduction of Italian leather furnishings and state-of-the-art home theatre systems to handcrafted timber screens and mood lighting, no detail has been overlooked in elevating luxury,” says Hashan Cooray, Director - Marketing and Development.  

Post restoration, the rooms and suites contribute to a modern and sophisticated ambience. While the suites feature free-standing marble bathtubs, electronically controlled sun blinds, and calming water features, the rooms are equipped with single-touch mood controls and a rain shower with thermostatic smart flow. Dining experiences have also been transformed, with signature locations like Rock Dining and Spa Dining offering intimate, coastal culinary moments. 

“The hotel’s makeover transcends being a mere aesthetic upgrade—a celebration of escapism, privacy, and attentive service," continues Cooray. "With 24-hour butler service, personalised check-ins, and the serene Sahana Spa, we continue to set a benchmark for refined, tropical hospitality. The reawakening of this coastal sanctuary invites discerning travellers to rediscover romance, serenity, and indulgence in a space where every detail echoes elegance and authenticity.”

Rooms with a view

Accommodation comes in various categories—from deluxe suites to the gasp-worthy Saman Villa Suite (where Anil Kapoor stayed). Opulent without being overstated, the duplex villa exemplifies refined restraint with subtle touches of marble, wood and terracotta. While the ground level is dedicated to a sitting room and lounge, the upper floor boasts a capacious bedroom awash in natural light and designed to effortlessly complement the tropical seascape.  

But it doesn't matter where you stay. Each room comes with staple accoutrements—breathtaking views of the ocean, syrupy sunsets and breezy sunrises. Done up in tropical décor with polished wood floors, they flaunt large windows and a patio to soak in the almost therapeutic salty sea breeze. The terracotta tiled roof helps maintain coolth while offering an antidote to the catatonic tropical heat and whittling down electricity bills.  

Feast for the eyes

The hotel has a large main restaurant with al fresco seating, incorporating Spanish designer Arturo Alvarez’s emotional lighting and handcrafted timber screens. A small adjoining bar is a theatre for elemental pyrotechnics. So grab a seat here at sunset and keep cameras poised to capture the sky change colours faster than runway models—from brilliant orange to amber, russet, ochre, vermillion red...  

Interestingly, because of their design elements, all culinary spaces offer visual drama, whether you’re dining ‘on the rock’ at the edge of the sea at the Pool Pavilion (a sought-after spot for an excellent high tea served in tiered silver trays or a multihued cocktail with colours that match the sunset!). Al fresco meals on the terrace overlook the glutinous infinity pool, while the verandah, surrounded by rustling palm trees, adds a different allure to gastronomic offerings.  

Jetwing Saman Villas is also home to the Sahana Spa, celebrated as one of the island's most exquisite spa experiences, and Anil Kapoor’s fave haunt if rumours are to be believed! Equipped with a jacuzzi, sauna, floral bath, and more, the wellness centre nestles within a beautiful, secluded water garden.