Cricket legend Kumar Sangakkara and his wife Yehali have showcased their meticulously restored 120-year-old Dutch colonial home in Galle on the second season of ABC Australia's Culture by Design.
The couple's residence, located within the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, was featured as a centrepiece in the design programme's recent premiere on August 23. The project represents a six-year restoration effort that combined heritage preservation with modern living standards, demonstrating how historical architecture can be adapted for contemporary use without compromising its cultural significance.
Architects Jeevan D'Souza and Murad Ismail led the restoration work, while designer Annika Fernando contributed to the creative vision. Their collaborative approach addressed the complex challenges of working within one of Sri Lanka's most significant heritage sites, balancing the villa's original Dutch colonial character with updated comfort and functionality for daily living.
The featured home exemplifies broader conservation efforts at Galle Fort, which encompasses centuries of architectural history and cultural heritage. By opening their doors to the ABC Australia production, the Sangakkaras have highlighted both the practical and aesthetic possibilities of restoring colonial-era structures while maintaining their historical integrity and cultural value.
