Established in 1999, Suriya provides the decorative solutions from outdoors to indoors for both residential and commercial properties. With beautiful designs that are contemporary and ethnic, ‘Suriya’ lifestyle prides itself for its unique and bespoke offerings.
Words Udeshi Amarasinghe. | Photographs Menaka Aravinda
Working with 158 artisan and crafts families, Suriya displays an extensive range of Sri Lankan produced art, crafts and furnishing that are of high quality reflecting a diversity of aesthetics. As Ruwanmali Jayasinghe, Founder, CEO/MD, Suriya explains “Since we work with artisans and crafts people, it is very rewarding. We provide livelihoods and equip them with skills and knowledge about standards and the market”. Furthermore, women empowerment is also a key focus and much of the products showcased at Suriya are made by women. “The color combination and designs are provided by me as my background is in creativity and design,” said Ruwanmali.
Suriya displays an eclectic collection of furniture, lighting, ornaments and much more to create a beautifully furnished interior. Much of the work done is tailor-made to the customer’s requirement and Suriya provides a specialized service, where the customer’s own designs are manufactured for them as well. “We have a fabric room. If a person requires a sofa, they can select the design and the fabric and get it custom-made,” explained Ruwanmali.
When creating interior solutions, the designs as well as furnishing elements are always a combination between contemporary and ethnic where a beautiful balance is maintained.
As you explore the store, there is much more to choose from. Aesthetically pleasing and unusual statues, sculptures, ornaments, colorful art pieces, and monochrome paintings, Eastern and Western inspired furnishing, lighting solutions, as well as chandeliers and candelabras, cutlery, crockery, and the list goes on.
As Ruwanmali says, “From the door mat to the furnishing, Suriya provides it all.” Each element is mixed and matched to provide an elegant and stylish décor that is both modern and ethnic. Furthermore, other necessities such as fragrant incense sticks, essential oils and a collection of perfumed candles provide an aromatic sensation. Every single object within the store reflects the skills of the artisans and the crafts people together with the uniqueness in design and style. Outdoor solutions such as water features, sculptures and decorative items are available to beautify and landscape one’s garden. Customers who walk into Suriya draw inspira- tion from the various design and furnishing elements at the store. Furthermore, as Ruwanmali explains, “We provide advice to customers when selecting items while always keeping their requirement in mind.”
With the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become increasingly apparent of the importance of purchasing Sri Lankan made products as imports are restricted. Furthermore, through its endeavors, Suriya is providing sustenance to local industries that are fading away and need encouragement. “I always emphasize on working with local industries. Governmental support is required for the revival of these sectors,” explained Ruwanmali.
Suriya has a store in California, USA, which will see further expansion, while two more stores are in the pipeline to be opened overseas including in Europe. “We are always optimistic and work against the wind,” said Ruwanmali positively.
Suriya means the sun in Sinhala, which is a source of infinite energy and light, thus Suriya continues to shine as it provides support to local industries and women.
Christmas Sale December 12 and 13, 2020 9.30am – 7pm 39, Layard’s Road, Colombo 5 info@suriyalifestyle.com suriyalifestyle.com (+94 11) 473 6459 Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 9.30am – 7pm, Sunday 9.30am – 6pm
