Kandalama Perch Bench

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

The Kandalama Perch Bench—both a seat and a sculptural element—is a product of this vision. Designed for the hotel’s expansive verandahs and lobbies, it invites guests to pause and take in the lush surroundings. Its robust timber structure allows for multiple ways of sitting, including perching on the backrest, transforming it into a communal gathering place.

The Bench was designed by architect Channa Daswatte, who joined Bawa’s practice in 1991, and worked closely with him on the Kandalama Hotel. Channa went on to become the last partner in Bawa’s firm and took over the practice after Bawa was no longer able to work due to ill health. The bench was installed at the Kandalama Hotel in 2005, after Bawa’s death.

Phantom Hands’ re-edition refines the original, with slight adjustments to enhance comfort and stability, and make it more accommodating at the bench ends. The design is also responsive to modern production, and uses timber sections that minimize material waste. Additionally, this version is flat-packed for easier and more economical shipping.

The bench is available in teak, or American red oak (as seen in the images above), with red oak being the more economical and sustainable timber option. For semi-outdoor spaces, teak is the recommended version, whereas red oak is suitable only for indoor use.