About Kandé
The story of Kande is one of passion, purpose, and perseverance. The hallmark of this property is its simplicity, with minimum carbon footprint. It is the legacy of three Dunuwille siblings, Sirini, Himanshi and Chinthaka, whose ancestral family once owned the land where the Citadel Hotel stands proud today. Their mother dreamed of creating a hotel offering guests warm Kandyan hospitality, food, and a glimpse of the Kandyan lifestyle. Her children ensured she was an integral part of the day they laid the foundation stone for the property.
Designed by Architect Vijitha Basnayake, since upcycling and recycling is intrinsic to the concept of Kande, every beam, every stone, every brick, and every door was carefully and lovingly sourced over a period to complement the final work of art. Even the paints were created according to traditional methods using natural substances such as limestone. The use of dura-boards, stone and brick ensure cool interiors while the roofing is free of asbestos and other harmful materials. The Dunuwilles ensure the food is cooked according to their mother’s recipes liberally using spices and ingredients grown in the region.
The property offers stunning views of the Gannoruwa Forest Range, the Mahaweli River and working paddy fields. Whilst energy conserving bulbs are utilized throughout the property, rainwater fills up the mini pond and nourishes the mango, jakfruit, jambu fruit) also known as Java Apple) and frangipani trees in the garden.
