The architects provided the following comments on the site selection.
"The chosen site
is ideally located on a small hill overlooking the sea, gradually sloping
towards the beach. It has an extraordinary view on its southern boundary.
Visitors to the hotel approach the zenith of the site which slopes down
to the sea flanked by two beautiful verdant valleys on the east and
west.
There is a secluded
beach at the end of the eastern valley. On the west, activities such
as stilt fishing can be observed. Walking and jogging can be done on
this stretch of beach as well."
Lobby lit up at night
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Three architects contributed to the design and construction
of Barberyn Beach working closely with the owners who wanted to
extend the same concept as the sister resort, Barberyn Reef. They all
brought their unique qualities to the project. They also had a common
understanding that the barriers between interior and exterior should
be minimum and that the harmony between the building and the site should
be maintained. They all took care to disturb as little as possible the
existing vegetation of the site and used natural local material where
ever possible. The result of this joint endeavor can be seen in the
unique architecture of Barberyn Beach.
The lead architect Mr. Turner Wickramasinghe, believed in wide open
spaces, clean lines and an uncluttered look.
Laki Senanayake whose hand is seen in the finishes and interiors apart
from the landscape which is his specialty, believed that the inside
and the outside should become one and that the
landscape should be free to invade the interiors wherever possible.
Both architects were close associates of the famous Sri Lankan architect,
Geoffrey Bawa.
The consulting Australian architects, Glen and Carol Smith of
Glen Smith Associates, brought their love for minimalist architecture
and interiors to Barberyn Beach.
The extensive grounds, the verdant valley and the unspoilt
coastline create a feeling of space where life slows down to allow the
visitor to absorb what nature bestowed.
Still and moving water brings into focus the watering hole which attracts
local bird life and butterflies and is designed to be a reservoir for
the garden. A sea water swimming pool overlooks the ocean and guests
enjoy yoga sessions and practice at sundown.

The land slopes to the beach and the sea and on the left hand side
of the property is Red Cliff bay, where guests swim at designated times
- depending on the tide. On the right hand side of the property is the
Palm Beach - for walking or jogging.