Architecture with impact: Turner Walker Robinson’s vision to inspire and future-proof Sri Lankan design

With a deep-rooted architectural legacy and a growing presence on the global stage, Sri Lanka is carving out a bold new identity in design. One of the firms leading this shift is Turner Walker Robinson (TWR), a homegrown group of architects and designers with teams based in Sri Lanka, the UAE and Melbourne. The firm’s recent appointment of internationally acclaimed consultant Jeff Rossely as the Group Chairman marks a significant step in its global expansion. Known for leading iconic projects such as Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai, and The Delmore in Miami, Rossely brings a wealth of international experience and a sharp, future-focused vision to the firm.

In this exclusive interview, he shares insights into TWR’s regional growth, his approach to design, and the role architecture can play in shaping region’s future.

Q: As TWR expands its international footprint, how has the firm’s design philosophy and influence evolved?

 While our roots remain firmly in Sri Lanka, we’re actively branching out into regions like the Middle East, East Africa, South Asia, and Australia. At this stage, our priority is raising internal standards and pushing the boundaries in these new markets. For example, in Dubai, you’ll find both some of the world’s best architecture and, quite honestly, some of the most mundane. The challenge lies in taking what might otherwise be an ordinary project and elevating it—not just visually, but functionally—for the people who actually use the space.

Architecture is often misunderstood as just the beauty of a building. You hear people say, “It’s so wonderful,” and then you walk in and realise the corridors are too narrow or there’s a structural column awkwardly placed in the middle of a room. That’s not good architecture—it might be a pretty façade, but it’s not usable or human-centred. At TWR, our objective is to marry aesthetic appeal with functionality—to integrate the right spaces and flow with a well-considered exterior. It’s about creating the full experience, not just ticking design boxes.

Q:  How have your past projects shaped your approach at TWR?

 Each of those projects was a leap forward for its time. About 20 years ago, no one had really integrated retail, leisure, and lifestyle at scale. Mall of the Emirates changed that—it wasn’t just about shopping; it was about creating an immersive experience. You could stay at the Kempinski Hotel, sit by a fireplace at 14 degrees, and look out at the ski slope while it was 50 degrees outside. That contrast made it unforgettable.

With The Delmore, a super luxury apartment project in Miami, Florida, we responded to a shift in how people were living post-COVID. Miami had long been a second-home market, but suddenly people were moving there permanently. They didn’t want compact holiday apartments—they wanted real homes. So we designed residences averaging 7,000 square feet, for people used to much larger spaces elsewhere. And in a city constrained by geography, we had to build up—not out. That kind of thinking—designing for future needs, not just present trends—is key. The same applies when we talk about cruise tourism, for example. It’s not enough to build a terminal. What happens when 2,000 people arrive? Are there systems in place to move them, host them, engage them?

Architecture has to be more than visual—it has to work. It’s about the full experience. That’s the philosophy I bring to TWR: total design, total systems thinking.

Q: Drawing from your experience in Australia, the UAE, and the US, what lessons can Sri Lanka apply to grow its tourism and real estate sectors?

 The key is understanding your audience—you can’t appeal to everyone. For example, young Australians go to Bali for surf and nightlife. Sri Lanka needs to offer something distinct—less crowding, richer authenticity, and shorter travel distances within the country.

Each market has different needs. Indian families require group-friendly infrastructure. US luxury travellers expect high-end design, comfort, and service—not just scenic views. Architecture should reflect purpose: a surf lodge should be practical and durable, while a luxury retreat demands precision and attention to detail.

The bigger point is this: design should start with a deep understanding of the customer—how they travel, what they value, and what makes their experience seamless and memorable. When you get that right, everything else follows.

Q: What key factors are needed for Sri Lanka to succeed as a hub for tourism, MICE, and luxury travel?

You need infrastructure to support the vision. For the MICE sector, you need functional, attractive convention centres with breakout rooms, nearby hotels, and networking spaces. Plus, you should be able to offer leisure experiences before or after the event, especially if attendees are coming long distances and bringing partners.

You also need to think about segmentation. High-end travellers want privacy, ease, and luxury. They might want to land in a private jet, clear customs within minutes, and fly by helicopter straight to a resort. If the journey to that resort takes six hours by car and boat, they won’t come. The infrastructure must match the expectation.

Q: Sustainability is an increasing priority in architecture. How does TWR integrate sustainable practices, and what challenges come with it?

 Sustainability goes beyond LEED certifications. With climate change accelerating—1.5°C warming already reached in 2025—we need to design for long-term resilience. If a building is near the coast, should the ground floor be raised? Should height regulations be reconsidered? It’s not just about solar panels or recycling systems—it’s about future-proofing. As cyclones hit new regions and sea levels rise, we must ask: will this building still stand and serve its purpose 30 or 40 years from now?

Q: What are your long-term aspirations for TWR’s presence and influence in South Asia?

Our long-term goal is to build the most skilled, committed, and creative team possible—people who consistently deliver outstanding results. We want every client to say: “I got more than I imagined.”

This year, six of our team members from Sri Lanka passed their architectural exams and became Chartered Architects. We’d love for them to stay and grow with us—but if they go on to become industry leaders on their own, that’s a success too. It’s not about owning talent—it’s about enabling people to thrive.

Q: What advice would you give to aspiring architects looking to build a successful career?

Don’t just think of yourself as an architect—think of yourself as a person in society, with architecture as your tool for making a difference. Look at things from all angles. Don’t limit yourself with labels or narrow thinking. Think beyond the drawing board.