The Design Mantra of Architect Pradeep Kodikara

Sharing his neighbourhood with the famous design and architectural firm Surath Wickramasinghe Associates and witnessing "grown ups drawing" inspired and encouraged the interest of the curious eleven year old. From that point on he developed a bond with the craft. Walking in and out of the friendly firm he observed enough to know that this was his calling.

During the seven year journey to his professional qualification Pradeep was guided by tutors who included the likes of Geoffrey Bawa and Anjalendran. He explains that through these experiences during the formal years of his architectural education he gained valuable insights into the personal experiences and ideas of the great architects of Sri Lanka. He commenced his training and gained practical experience during his college years with Surath Wickramasinghe Associates, whose offices were then located right opposite Pradeep's family home. Thereafter he joined Anjalendran, worked with Geoffrey Bawa and during his final year joined the practice of architect Nela De Zoysa.

On qualifying as an architect in 1997 Kodikara set up his own practice. Although things started out slowly as with most members of this profession he has now established himself within the profession and also with his clientele. As a creative person who likes to be in control of his work, Pradeep enjoys working alone and has no immediate plans of expanding and setting up his own firm. He also believes in taking the "hands on" approach to any job. During the design process he explains that he visits the site, observes the terrain, the play between light and shadows and the nuances of the space that can't always be put down on paper.

"The design evolves" with this understanding and knowledge of the site he is working with. "This can't be delegated, and I feel that I need to do this myself" he says. He finds this method of exploring his creativity fulfilling. "Everyday there is something new to discover and work with or work around and opportunities to observe and learn everyday".