Polo & More, Singapore 2017 Polo & More, Singapore 2017 | Page 90

Tri & Relax Tri’s philosophy of balance and symmetry also resonates in its airy spa and treetop yoga shala, designed to “float” above the bamboo grove and provide a calming space for physical and spiritual practice of the Quantum Yoga approach, developed by Tri’s co-founder, Lara Baumann. Tri’s sustainability ethos pleases both form and function. The use of cinnamon sticks is prominent throughout, from characterizing the exteriors of the buildings and the gastronomy, as well as working to regulate room temperatures and nodding towards the plantations, which pepper the surrounding landscapes. Among many other initiatives, verdant vertical gardens and living roofs blend the buildings into nature, while solar arrays, water gardens and rainwater channels generate power, minimize erosion and nourish the grounds. Founded by British photographer, Rob Drummond, who was determined to bring something wholly different to Sri Lanka, Drummond worked closely with Raefer Wallis, of Shanghai’s A00 Architects, to design a hotel that honors nature, enriches its surroundings, and prioritises sustainable practice. ■ T hen, journey inland for a taste of relaxation at the country’s first sustainable design hotel, Tri. Perched on an island hill overlooking Sri Lanka’s largest natural lake, Koggala, each of Tri’s 11 rooms and villas is unique, meaning that the property is a haven of serenity for couples and larger groups alike. Three elevated rooms are housed within the water tower, while the remaining eight villas terrace down a spiral path, offering either sunrise or sunset views, private gardens and terraces or plunge pools. Interiors combine the warmth of local Jak wood with cooling natural granite, while furnishings fuse natural materials with softly coloured, locally made textiles. The open-plan Main House offers a communal space for dining and relaxation underneath its cantilevered roof, with wide sunbathing terraces, a 21-metre swimming pool over the lake, and indoor and outdoor dining areas. For more information or to book Tea Trails or Cape Weligama, visit www.resplendentceylon.com or call +94 11 774 5700. For more information or to book Tri, visit www.trilanka.com or call +94 777 708 177. 90