Case Study
Tekanda Lodge
Tekanda Lodge is a six-bedroom lodge set on the hillsides of Sri Lanka. It was built with the goal to offer high-quality accommodation while having a low impact on the environment.
Maintaining positive and respectful relationships with both the local community and the environment is at the heart of Tekanda Lodge’s concept.
Impact of Tekanda Lodge
Environmental Impact: Using solar power and well water helps Tekanda Lodge minimise its environmental footprint. The use of local materials and sustainable practices further supports this goal.
Economic Impact: Tekanda Lodge was designed and built using local resources. The furniture is handmade by local artisans, and the roofs are thatched with Sri Lankan iluk, a traditional material. This not only supports local craftsmanship but also ensures the lodge fits naturally into its surroundings.
Social Impact: The Tekanda Foundation’s empowerment center offers crucial education and skills training, improving employment opportunities and quality of life for community members
The Tekanda Foundation
Tekanda Lodge actively contributes to community development. They established The Tekanda Foundation with three other donors to support and expand the work of the Foundation of Goodness, a local organisation working across the island. Together, they created an empowerment center in Kathaluwa, Gamata Athak, which aims to improve the lives of children, youth, and women in rural communities. The center provides educational and employment skills that are often hard to access in these areas.
Guest Involvement
Guests at Tekanda Lodge are encouraged to participate in community activities. They have the opportunity to volunteer at the empowerment center, working alongside local leaders and gaining a deeper understanding of the local culture and challenges.