Master of Science in Landscape Design

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item: Thesis-Abstract
The Appreciation of landforms : with special reference to Sri Lanka
(2011) Liyanage CPB; Balasuriya S
Geology has profoundly influenced the society, civilizations and the cultural diversity of the world and the role of geology is unique in shaping human history as well. Besides that, Geology has pervaded everyday life and is a part of many aspects of human experience, including traditions such as the arts and literature. Society requires a basic understanding of geology not only as a science, but also as an 'art', in being significant part of the environment experienced and appreciated by human beings. If the Earth's environment is to be treated as it ought to be, a better understanding of the various natural, physical, chemical, biological and geological processes which have left their mark on the Earth's surface is necessary. These marks are still affecting humankind and will continue to influence their future. Many different psychological approaches focus on the psychological benefits of nature experiences which are more advantageous and strongly influence human perception. The contributions of geology and more importantly geomorphology are of great importance for this backdrop as space definers in landscape. This study will attempt to emphasize the essence of geomorphological features which exist in Nature, focusing to capture the unique space-making attributes integrated with those features and more importantly, something beyond a mere view.....
item: Thesis-Abstract
Biodiversity in landscape design
Ariyawansa, KTC
Sri Lanka is one of the Biodiversity Hot Spots in the world. It has a high species richness and a high endemism in flora and fauna. Of the total number of plant species present in Sri Lanka, about 75% are indigenous and about 25% are exotics. In this dissertation, the use of indigenous, endemic and exotic plant species in landscape designing is discussed. Chapter I is an introduction to the current status of biodiversity. The aims and objectives of the study also pointed out. Recorded figures of biodiversity are stated in Appendix I. Chapter II explains the climatic and geographical background of Sri Lanka which has been supported to become a hot spot of biodiversity. The traditional landscaping in villages is associated with houses and the weva. Traditional home gardens are created with most of the indigenous or endemic plant species to Sri Lanka. Ancient gardens such as Rnmasu Uyana and Mahamegha Uyana were landscaped with the indigenous plants of the same area. Features of those landscaping is discussed in Chapter III. During colonial period, with introduction of exotic plant species, they were widely used in landscape designing. Colombo Museum Garden is highlighted here. Chapter V includes a present study of some existing landscapes of different use. The Botanic Garden, Peradeniya, Vihara Maha Devi Park, Independence Square and Colombo Town Hall are discussed here. Use of indigenous plants in private gardens like Lunuganga and Dambulla Arboretum are emphasized. The availability of exotic plants in plant nurseries around Colombo are highlighted and listed in Appendix II. Chapter V reviews the use of indigenous and endemic plant species in above mentioned landscapes. A list of endemic and indigenous trees, shrubs and herbs used in landscape designing are given in Appendix III. Effect of endemic and indigenous plant species on butterflies is discussed in Appendix IV.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Colombo : a landscape in transition : a study through colonial maps and images
Wijayanandana RS; Balasuriya S
Colombo: A Landscape in Transition - A Study Through Colonial Maps and Images Colombo has seen an accelerated programme of urban renewal in the period since 2009 and work is underway to improve the living environment ofthe city. Steps have been taken to enhance Colombo's existing green spaces, to restore its colonial architecture and to revive old waterways and in some cases, to expand them. Given this environment of rejuvenation of the city of Colombo, and that the focus of many of these projects are relics ofthe colonial period such as the Dutch Hospital in the Colombo Fort, the purpose of this dissertation is to examine the transformation^ of the landscape of Colombo, and sometimeTits suburbs, during approximately four and half centuries of colonial rule. The lens through which this change is observed is the pictorial representation left behind by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonisers. The changes due to the transfer of influence to each colonising power and the needs of the indigenous people is observed in the resulting hybrid landscape. Chapter Summary Chapter 1: The urban renewal ofthe city in contemporary times. Chapter 2: The arrival ofthe Portuguese and the construction and fortification ofthe fort of Colombo. Chapter 3: Dutch urban planning and traditions of landscaping. The Dutch contribution to the field of botany. Chapter 4: Changes to the City during the British Period. British streetscapes in the Fort and other significant areas in Colombo. Conclusion: Sri Lankan landscape traditions and the effect of colonial influence.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Concept of ECO2 cities and its relevance for urban landscape planning and managing the urban green space with special reference to the city of Colombo
Ranasinghe WMDD; Balasuriya S
Many ofthe policies, plans and programs related to the environmental conservation, greening the cities, balancing the carbon foot print and sustainable environment and economic development by planning and management of urban green space. The institutions directly or indirectly and individually or collectively responsible in planning and management of urban green space are engaged in frequently change new concepts in relation to: - Sustainable environmental development(by the Ministry' of Environment and Natural Resources by i;Sri Lanka Strategy for Sustainable Development (February' 2007)”, National Plan for Haritha Lanka Programme” (2009) and National Physical Planning Policy & Plan, Project Proposals, Sri Lanka 2030, January 2011 (NPPP2011) ) - Establishing environmental friendly modern / beautiful green cities ('Mahinda Chintana- A Brighter Future 2010’. Maintaining bio-diversity and Balancing Carbon Foot Print. Many of these concepts although adapted by various institutions responsible in planning and management of urban green space its trickledown effect has not significantly impacted the conservation and development of urban green space in urban areas. The main reason for this became that many ofthese urban areas in the country consists of its lands in combination of open space elements such as urban, natural and agricultural requires to effective incorporation into the city life with its ample opportunities was available for visual and functional realization. The assessment of the actions so far being made by the authorities as well as Landscape professional indicated that their involvement in planning of urban space is done in piecemeal and in isolation manner. However the new way ofthinking on the planning of urban landscape is that it creates economic opportunities through protecting and nourishing the local ecology and global public goods such as the environment, for future generation. In the context of increasing the world population for the first time in history more than half the world’s people live in cities and over 90 percent of urban growth is occurring in the developing world, adding an estimated 70 million new residents to urban areas each year (World bank) a new strategy is inaugurates for recognizing cities at the core of growth and human development. It is committed to promoting sustainable cities and towns that fulfill the promise of development for their inhabitants — in particular, by improving the lives of the poor and promoting equity -- while contributing to the progress of the country as a whole which is developed as Eco2 Cities - a Guide for Developing Ecologically Sustainable and Economically Viable Cities. Issues facing the provision of open space and how to enhance the landscape in areas where: - uneven distribution of public open space and recreational facilities in terms of population catchment - Sub-standard provision of open space and recreational facilities when compared to international best practice highly inadequate statutory requirement and protection for public open space. The Ecological Cities as Economic Cities Eco2 Cities book introduces some powerful and practical methods and tools that can further enable sustainable and integrated city planning and decision making. The dissertation on “ Concept of Eco2 Cities and its relevance of: Planning and Managing Urban Green Space in achieving Sustainable Environment” is addressing the present issues connected with urban landscape for greening the cities as well as how to landscape designs could be done to make an integrated effort to have environmental and economic development: Develop an appropriate landscape design criteria in construction of buildings, communities and infrastructure to utilize green building practices that promote improved environmental performance including energy efficiency covering vertical landscaping, greening the buildings, urban agricultural practices, maintaining micro climate, integration of green and blue areas etc hoping to facilitate for establishing Eco2 Cities that create economic opportunities for their citizens in an inclusive, sustainable, and resource-efficient way, while protecting and nurturing the local ecology and global public goods, such as the environment, for future generations. Design principles for urban, natural and agricultural areas located in urban centres by analyzing their ecological and bio-diversity - that will provide the visual and functional realization. Planning for greening the Open Space to provide a community facility for recreation that ranges from children’s playgrounds through town parks for all ages, to sport venues. Encouraging vegetated private open spaces are quite extensive and contribute to the Green Infrastructure necessary for a healthy environment, including provision of visual amenity/relief where visible and not degraded by waste dumping, while affording a natural drainage network and flood protection when measured against international standards for provision of open space, landscaped areas ;uid recreation faciliti
item: Thesis-Abstract
Cultural landscape as a harmonious interaction of people & nature
(2009) Kellapatha, C; Balasooriya, S
"People come and go but the Land, and stories about the Land, stay. This is a wisdom that takes lifetimes of listening, observing and experiencing ....There is a deep understanding of human nature and the environment. Sites hold 'feelings' which cannot be described in physical terms" (1) Morris, C (1995) The Cultural Landscape is a tangible manifestation of human actions and beliefs set against and within the natural landscape. (Jutta Melnic 1984). Early human settlements originated as a part of natural environment. They used minimum resources from the environment. Natural elements features and territories were treated with sacred dignity. As civilizations grew for thousands of years each generation owned different cultural values, beliefs. Those beliefs linked with natural elements added a spiritual value to the natural landscape making a cultural landscape. Cultural Landscape often reflects specific techniques of sustainable land use, considering the characteristic and limits of the natural environment they are establishing. This sustainable land use leads to the protection of biological diversity and it enhances the natural values embodied in the landscape. Chapter one will discuss how a Cultural Landscape forms concepts and definitions of different perspectives and some human nature relationships. Chapter two elaborates the Cultural Landscape in different contextual backgrounds and Varieties of Landscape experiences and its impact on the environment in overseas. Chapter three explains the origin of Cultural Landscape with different concepts and their application in a Sri Lankan context. Chapter four is a case study on the harmonious interaction of selected Cultural Landscape in a Sri Lankan context. The dissertation concludes with precautions and suggestions for protection of the Cultural Landscape. Morris, C (1995) "An Approach to Ensure Continuity and Transmission of the Rainforest Peoples' Oral Tradition" in Fourmile, H; Schnierer, S; & Smith, A (Eds) An Identification of Problems and Potential for Future Rainforest Aboriginal Cultural Survival and Self-Determination in the Wet Tropics. Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Participation Research and Development Cairns, Australia
item: Thesis-Abstract
Ecological sustainability and continuous tradition of the Sri Lankan urban landscape
(2011) Muthugala MRGI; Balasuriya S
Urban green spaces are a crucial element of all cities. They affect the townscape, provide ecological diversity and form essential structural and functional elements that make cities and urban regions more livable places for their citizens. It is this key role of improving the quality of urban life that has caused many parties to understand the vital importance of urban green spaces. These spaces have ecological as well as socio-economic functions with relevance to humanities overall wellbeing while performing the central role in development and delivery of sustainable ideals. The inter-related issues of urban sprawl, traffic congestion, noise and air pollution are major socio-economic and environmental problems faced by most cities. What makes urban green spaces green is that they are 'living' - and it is this 'more than human' interactivity that is the key to understanding what makes cities habitable. Urban green space has an important ecological function in its own right. In a city, the presence of open wooded areas, scrub, urban wetlands, horticulture and agricultural areas represent a mosaic of ecosystems. These complex ecosystems contribute to the bio-geo-chemical cycles in an urban environment. Green spaces provide habitat for tree and faunal species which will enhance the biodiversity in a particular area. City Landscapes of Sri Lanka date back to the 3rd century B.C, Anuradhapura which is the first city in the country as related by the chronicles, was planned under the patronage of King Padukabhaya. Several "Wana" and "Uyana" (forests and gardens) were attached within the cityscape. Among them "Maha Mega Wana Uyana" (the forest garden with heavy 'clouds), "Nandana Uyana" (the heavenly pleasure garden), "Ran Masu Uyana" (the gold fish garden) are significant. Since then the capital city has been moved to several locations due to security reasons, seeking natural landscapes that formed defensive mechanisms against invading foreign armies. These cities were well planned and some features are remarkable in terms of sustenance even today. Ecological degradation during the last few centuries, especially throughout the industrial boom and its resultant haphazard development, during the late 20th century has taken a substantial toll on the current urban nodes of Sri Lanka. Yet the sustainable strategies used in early civilizations form a model for smart growth with green infrastructure practices in developing Sri Lankan cities.
item: Thesis-Abstract
The Importance of effective lighting in landscape design
(2011) Silva AKDC; Balasooriya S
Landscape lighting offers an incredible expansion of the enjoyment of night time environment. It makes out door space usable at night and adds a magical view in to the surrounding. In the beginning the human experience of light was given a spiritual quality. Gradually man tries to control the environment and he made to produce artificial lighting to conceal the darkness. Lighting requirement depend on the usage and activities. The composition of view, balance, beauty, focal points will give dramatic and eye pleasing environment. There can be introducing light in an organized fashion to create or sculpt a night scene from a dark landscape. Improper application and usage will degrade the quality of environment. Sky glow, glare, and light trespass, light clutter decrease the visibility at night and energy waste can occurs as well as light pollution. Those affect human activities, animal behaviors and plants ecosystems. Suitable application of lighting can enhance the beauty while conserving the elegant of night sky. Light has ability to transform a space, creating emotional responses or simply an environment comfortable. The effective lighting application will enhance the beauty of the night. The drama that creates thought the suitable composition and it will gift to experience and enjoy the surrounding at night.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Landscape and creativity : a study of the outdoor environment and its ability to stimulate creativity
Premathilake HDDC; Balasuriya S
LANDSCAPE AND CREATIVITY A study ofthe outdoor environment and its ability to stimulate creativity
item: Thesis-Abstract
Landscape and health : a study of the health-promoting impact of the outdoor environment with special reference to urban open spaces
Perera WBK; Balasuriya S
Many people now experience physical and psychological health issues related to the stress, fatigue and pollution associated with living and working in urban environments. The presence of fascinating components of the environment are important because they attract us, and keep us from becoming bored. In an urban setting , green spaces simulate natural environment and green spaces can provide social, economic, cultural and psychological services especially for the wellbeing of the urban dwellers The literature review conceptualizes the landscape as a health resource that promotes physical, mental and social wellbeing. Different health-promoting landscape characteristics are discussed. This research is based on literature review and case studies. A set of meaningful pathways that link landscape and health is intended to be identified from this study. This study may allow to systematically describe the potential use oflandscape as a resource for physical, mental and social well-being, a resource offered and available. It is well known that physical activity improves both physiological andpsychological well-being, but further evidence is required to ascertain how urban green spaces influence andshape health. This research considers specially the urban green spaces, their relationship to human health and the mechanisms behind relation between green space and health.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Landscape as a metaphor
Krishantha, DKN
“Dreaming is an act of imagination, attesting in al/ men a creative power, which, if it were available in waking, would make every man a Dante or, Shakespear" HF.Hedge The saying confirms that the dreaming is the way of be born of new talents ...philosophers , scientists designers, artists and architects, including landscape architects who can make the world something better place, new and creative. Dreaming is the language of mind. It nourishes mind with innovative wondering ideas. Personal creativity is greatly increased by utilizing the information gleaned from the subconscious mind in dreaming. The dream experience is perhaps the most creative form of consciousness that some people will ever experience. When recall these dreams upon waking can take symbols, images and adventures experience and discover what is going on at deeper levels of psyche. Interesting thing is each dream is inspired from the Nature and again it brings new outlook of nature's experience. This is incredible valuable information that will improve creative potentials immensely. By these dreams, the designer or artists or writer ....etc would be able to reinterpret the nature converting their dreams into metaphors that becomes a reality; may be through arts, crafts, science, ...or in other related creation. So why not in landscape !
item: Thesis-Abstract
Landscape as depicted in Sri Lankan traditional paintings with special reference to Kandyan period paintings
(2009) Bandara RDSM; Balasuriya S
Sri Lanka inherits a rich vibrant history of traditional arts. History of Sri Lanka is divided in to two different categories, pre historic and historic. In historic .era Illustrations, Literature used to depict the Buddhist tradition in aesthetic manner. Past or the heritage will depicts what is the path that we traveled from exist. Paintings of Kandyan period especially the religious paintings could be described as this climax of traditional Sri Lankan paintings. It reflects the both the religious influence together with the Landscape in the broad content. The art craft and architecture were to Sri Lanka with the advent of Buddhism in 3rd Century B.C. In a many ways Sri Lankan art is an expression of it long and enduring Buddhist tradition that has absorbed and internalized numerous regional and local tradition for thousands of years and inspired and influenced by both surrounding Landscape and socio cultural settings. Traditional historiography presents Sri Lankan arts and paintings throughout the pre-modern Sri Lanka and it appeared as religious and non religious influences largely by the Nature. Dynamic, complexion and expressive narration of the classical tradition was transformed and Sri Lankan paintings were come to its climax during the Kandyan period. At that time line and colour were used to produce volume of solidity of figurative forms and natural objects in the classical style underwent a transformed in the Kandyan period. The study has looked in to two case studies of Kandyan period namely Oambulla cave temple and Oanagiriga/a cave temple paintings. The surrounding Landscape and its responsiveness to the experience of the Oambulla and Oanagiriga/a cave paintings were studied. An Anotatta Landscape (Oambulla cave3) painting was highly imaginative painting but really the inspiration of the surrounding Landscape and their experiences. It reflected the level of people, religious leaders, Kings and painters philosophical imagination and level of literacy, knowledge and competence appeared by this plate. In Oambulla cave paintings which can be seen variety of natural Landscape principles and elements such as Waterscape, Aquatic plants, Forms and Space creation etc, and were illustrated more things to the viewer. Among the Kandyan period temples, Oanagiriga/a cave temple is identical with its indigenous design of surrounding Landscape and Landscape depiction by the paintings. It largely inspired by the nearby natural Landscape. It is evident that the Sri Lankan paintings were highly inspired and influenced by the religion and cultural settings at that time. Kandyan period paintings were of its climax and associated with the changes nature and life styles.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Landscape character of Sri Lanka capital cities with special reference to the city of Sri Jayawardanapura Kotte
(2009) Wijesundara, WMIR; Byrom, J
thousand years, in response to various influences, natural and geographic reasons and colonial influences. Today most of these capitals survive as historic artifacts while remaining in their original landscape character. The present capital - Colombo for example, owes much . of its character to British Colonial rather than indigenous influences. Sri Lankan Government has taken a conscious decision to relocate all necessary administrative buildings in Sri Jayawardanapura Kotte in order to establish a new enclave to Sri Lankan Capital city. This Dissertation explores the landscape identity achieved and situation to be so, in the creation of an enclave for the Sri Lankan capital.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Landscape landmarks special references to Kandy city
(2009) Wijerathna, DMWB; Manawadu, S
The topic of this dissertation concerns landscape landmarks with special consideration of those of city of Kandy, which is a living historical city of Sri Lanka still functioning with its special characteristic features. Chapter one of this dissertation concerns about the broad spectrum of landscape landmarks with special consideration of world famous landmarks due to their history and importance. Chapter two concerns landscape landmark establishment and there evolutions in relation to the cultural, social and political aspects of Sri Lanka. Chapter three carries out a broad explanation and study in relation to Kandy, the historical city from its origin up to the current period. Special consideration has been taken in this dissertation regarding naturally formed landscape landmarks in the City of Kandy and the evolution of man made landmarks. Chapter four aims to discuss the role of a landscape designer and his involvement in changes to the natural landscape and the establishment of new landscape landmarks of the future.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Landscaping in ancient Anuradhapura : is there any alien influence?
(2014-07-07) Peiris, MCJM
At school I was a science student. At University I started as a student of Medicine. But I switched over to Architecture in the middle of the course. After finishing my University education, I was involved with a career of journalism. There too, I was more involved not in writing, but in the artistic field as a layout editor. I am now continuing M.Sc studies in Landscape Architecture. I have found some similarities between landscaping and' drawing layouts for media publications. In addition I was always intrigued by space travel, UFOs and alien mysteries. The background with science, architecture, journalism and layout editing led me to think more about our ancient civilization with unparalleled colossal constructions like Stupas and Tanks. With this backdrop. I selected the topic, "Landscaping in Ancient Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka: Is there any alien influence?"
item: Thesis-Abstract
Microclimate and perception : research and design for thermal comfort in Kandy urban cityscapes
(2011) Rajaguru RMMK; Balasuriya S
Therefore, the role of landscape architect is essential in creating, according to individual habitat a more favorable outdoor environment for people with regard to their immediate inner living space: adequate shade, cooler temperatures, light breezes, and protection from glare. Outdoor public spaces become the heart of the civic life of the city and of those activities, that bind a community. Among public spaces "transitional spaces" are most significant. The problems arising from this approach with respect to human bioclimatic needs and perceptions as well as urban microclimate will be elucidated and practical solutions proposed. As a general conclusion, a different approach to urban design that conceivesthe 'city as landscape' is suggested. Thermal comfort forms an important factor for the usability and attractiveness of outdoor places. The recent research on thermal comfort reveals that next to physical parameters psychological factors are equally important. New knowledge on the perception of microclimate in outdoor space that can serve as a basis for urban spatial design has been lacking. The study has tried to elucidate some of the essential factors influencing microclimate perceptions and how these perceptions relate to the typical microclimate of these spatial configurations.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Public outdoor recreation spaces with special reference to Kegalle city
(2015-08-10) Gunathilake, DPRK; Balasuriya, S
With the urbanization process, the demand for open spaces for recreation and leisure activities is being increased in an unplanned manner. Even though, the demand for public outdoor recreation spaces is being increased, the supply of those space is not sufficiently available. In the future planning of Sri Lanka's towns and cities we should expect to be able to provide and distribute a necessary long term balance of recreational open spaces to serve local, district and regional needs of our urban population. My topic is presented in four chapters. Under chapter one the following areas are covered Introduction to Public Outdoor Recreation Spaces (PORS) active and passive recreation and the current situation of Public Outdoor Recreation Spaces (PORS) in urban areas of Sri-Lanka. The study of the problem situations and appropriate decisions towards solving these problems in future are discussed. Chapter two Historical background to public outdoor recreation spaces, both local and international. The existence of PORS is evident in the civilizations of Sumarian city, Egypt, China and Meserpothemia. In Sri-Lanka the preparation of PORS plans and the introduction of concept, policies and methodology is addressed by the environment and landscape unit Urban Development Authority. PORSis based on populations. The standard measure adopted by Sri-Lanka is 1.4 he.(3.5acres) for a population of 1000 and the PORSplans are prepared based on the above ratio. In the third chapter the present situation with regard to the PORS in Kegalle city, is Analyzed paying due regard to the potential for development and constraints. The PORS requirements necessary for future expansions in population are calculated in hectare and acres. Kegalle city is one of the main administrative and commercial cites in the Sabaragamuwa province. Further, this is the longest city of Sri-Lanka and has an extended ribbon - type development along the Colombo-Kandy main road. 'Kurulu Kele Birds Sanctuary' has played a vital role to keep the greenery of the city which is naturally situated in a valley. The space reserved for public outdoor recreation within the city is very limited and it is only 0.2% It is described by using PORS plans. In the fourth chapter, decisions based on the facts, which emerged in the 1st and 2nd chapters, field observations and the implementation are described, and concluding with PORSproposals for kegalle city.
item: Thesis-Full-text
Rehabilitation of dumpsite landscapes of urban areas in Sri Lanka
(2009) Attanayake, AMKB; Balasuriya, S
The rate of urbanization in Sri Lanka is estimated to be of the order of 2-2.5 percent per annum and it is expected that by year 2015, 45 percent of the population will be urban dwellers (CFE, 2003). Massive scale waste dumpsites are by-products of urbanization and disposal of wastes is a major and growing urban environmental issue. The attitude on waste and how to handle it will depend on the level of social and economic development of a country. The efficiency of solid waste collection and the final disposal will greatly determine the basic appearance or the beauty of the particular urban environment. Many of the natural or the man made landscapes in urban and suburban environments such as wetlands and road side reservations have been totally changed and degraded due to waste disposal. Some of these changes are irreversible or otherwise with very high environmental cost in bringing it back to its original condition. Many Urban Local Authorities are unable to re-correct the damage due to environmental, financial and technical factors. Finding suitable disposal sites is also very critical as the land values in many of the urban areas are very high. Many urban local authorities are now looking for alternative sites for waste disposal such as wetlands, low-lying areas, and forest reserves, though they are environmentally sensitive, or otherwise trying to rehabilitate the existing and abandoned dump sites. However once a disposal site has come to its full capacity level, the site is required to be rehabilitated and put to another usage. This study will look into the role of a landscape designer in planning and designing a dump site at the early stages to achieve a good result of a final landscape and will study the ultimate use of a solid waste disposal site whether it had been used as a landfill or sanitary land fills or as an open dump site, as a forest plantation, industrial park, vehicle park, or as a recreational space or sport fields. The study will also look in to the different aspects and options in rehabilitation of dumpsite landscape.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Representation of the edited landscape spirit along Colombo to Badulla railway viewing corridor : a journey from Colombo to Badulla by train
(2009) Dias, AARKC; Balasuriya, S
This dissertation is about the landscape experience of traveling along the Colombo- Badulla railway corridor in Sri Lanka. The study is also an elaboration of the daytime experience for travelers, who have special interest to experience the out door landscape of Sri Lanka, with -a geographical, geomorphological, climatic and biodiversity interests of the Colombo- Badulla railway corridor. Chapter one introduces an unidentified viewing corridor which is visible along Colombo to Badula while traveling by train. It also describes the history of this railway line with its principle land marks, exposing how the secondary landscape elements; (utilities and amenities) located along railway line contribute to symbolize the viewing corridor strengthening the historical character of Sri Lankan railway. Chapter two describes the geomorphologic characters and the variation of vegetation types available in Colombo- Badulla railway viewing corridor with climatic factors that leads to bring variations of environmental characters in ecosystems which ultimately matters to create variety along Colambo Badulla railway viewing corridor . Chapter three is an active exposure of the extract of the edited visual landscape spirit of Colombo Badulla viewing corridor which could be experienced as a montage while traveling by train. Lastly this chapter elaborates the variations of spatial qualities of landscape, land use pattern, vegetation and special geomorphologic features which caused to formulate the above said landscape viewing corridor.
item: Thesis-Abstract
The Role of culturally - special artifacts in Sri Lanka landscape design
(2011) Jayawardana PR; Balasuriya S
Landscape Architecture is the imaginative blend of art and science in the design of environments for people. As the world population is increasing and new problems are created that involves human living space, Architects, Landscape Architects have the task of transforming their needs into built form. In this regard, landscape Architecture provides a sense of place and support of all types of human activity. Landscape Architecture in particular, helps the man-made fit in harmony with the environment while promoting health and well-being, enriching lives aesthetically and spiritually, providing economic opportunities, and creating a legacy that reflects and symbolizes culture and traditions. One of the most powerful elements in making a built landscape a meaningful space was the artifact. By definition, an artifact is "any object made by human beings, especially with a view to subsequent use" The particular use of artifacts had changed over the years, but the significance of an artifact has not lost ground. Landscape architecture has a long history and its gradual evolution might have influenced artifacts in a greater scale. In a similar way the trends in art were influential too. The first and foremost step in studying this use of artifacts should be to identify the Changers and its causes. Throughout history the landscape architecture of Sri Lanka changed and developed through many stages, with different socio-economic influence. The landscapes enhanced by such artifacts can be seen in historical sanctuaries, monasteries, parks and many other places round the country. In addition, artifacts, used in the historic periods of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Yapahuwa, Kurunegalla and Kotte, can be recognized with its usages, the ways of using these artifacts in landscapes can be also recognized according to those specific periods.
item: Thesis-Full-text
Seating culture with Sri Lankan landscape
Rathnayake, RMVN; Balasuriya, S
Our seating culture acts as one of the factors that helps to establish the Sri Lankan identity. Cultural, religious, social, political and geographical features entwined with the life style of the people have made a lasting impression on the seating culture of Sri Lanka. This is not one that was introduced or extracted from the foreign lands, but one that was born and stabilized in this country it self. The first chapter discusses about the day to day life of the people and its relationship to the life style. Further it touches upon the way how power religion and respect at different social levels have molded our seating culture. The second chapter focuses on how, anthropometries and ergonomics have affected the seating culture of Sri Lanka and the physiologically aspect and the materials used for seats. The seating systems and postures are adapted in populated areas and the way these changed according to the rural and urban environmental situations, will be discussed in the third chapter. The fourth chapter discusses the positive and negative aspects observed in the case study areas and the response of people to variations in seating. The most suitable seating for a country like Sri Lanka with different urban situations and different life styles are discussed in the conclusion with the necessary actions and perspectives to make the seating culture of Sri Lanka one of our own again