Kandalama Ashtray

Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Dambulla, Sri Lanka, Kandalama Hotel (now Heritance Kandalama), completed in 1994, exemplifies Geoffrey Bawa’s vision of architecture in harmony with nature. With its innovative use of space, both inside and out, the hotel remains one of the finest examples of his commitment to sustainability and fostering a deep connection between people and the natural world.

This ashtray stand originated from a small café table designed for Kandalama Hotel’s Café Kachan in 1993. In this adaptation, the table’s plywood top was replaced with a triangular ashtray and affixed to three rods extending down to the base. Designed as a considerate provision for diners, it was meant to be placed diagonally behind the smoker, thus directing smoke away from the table and reducing discomfort for non-smokers. A custom-made slatted chair - the Kandalama Cafe Chair- created for the same café, was often paired with the ashtray stand.

The re-edition by Phantom Hands has been adjusted to be more precise for fabrication with precision machining and fastening methods. The base is made with aluminium rods and flats, while the tray is made using the milling process. The Kandalama Ashtray is available in a clear finish or an anodised black finish.