MAGNETIC SPACES, REVOLUTIONARY BRANDS
About the Event
Discover how design is redefining the shopping experience in Sri Lanka. As consumer behaviour and retail formats rapidly evolve, interior design plays a pivotal role in creating engaging, memorable, and brand driven spaces. This session explores the future of retailing and merchandising design from integrating technology and sustainability to celebrating local craftsmanship and culture. Learn how the next generation of designers and retailers are shaping innovative, experience-led environments that inspire and connect with today’s consumers.
Time & Location
Saturday, 22nd November 2025
12.00pm - 1.00pm
At Fashion Week Lounge, Level 8
Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams
No. 02 Glennie St, Colombo 02.
Chaired & Moderated By
Architect Philip Weeraratne
Philip Weeraratne is one of Sri Lanka’s most renowned architects, whose journey began at just 16, inspired by a divine calling his mother received. Starting his practice at 19 while still a student at the Sri Lanka Institute of Architects (SLIA), he went on to establish PWA Architects, a studio celebrated for its contemporary and dynamic approach. Over the years, Philip has designed a wide array of projects from hotels, resorts, and high-rises to private residences and interiors while extending his practice internationally to Singapore, the USA, India, Oman, the Maldives, Nepal, and Dubai. His collaborations with globally acclaimed architects such as Tadao Ando, Shigeru Ban, SCDA, MVRDV, and Skidmore Owings & Merrill, alongside early mentorship under Geoffrey Bawa, Anura Ratnavibhushana, and C. Anjalendran, have profoundly shaped his craft. Beyond architecture, Philip is committed to mentoring students, promoting holistic living through biohacking, alternative medicine, and spirituality, and frequently speaking at architectural and spiritual forums worldwide.
Panelists
Shalin Balasuriya
Shalin Balasuriya is a visionary entrepreneur and brand strategist with over two decades in the beauty and wellness industry. As co-founder of Spa Ceylon, a globally awarded brand with 145+ locations across 31 countries, he has redefined traditional wellness for the modern world. Recognized for his achievements in entrepreneurship and brand building, Shalin continues to inspire and mentor the next generation through his expertise in brand strategy and creative innovation.
Annika Fernando
Annika Fernando is an interior designer and entrepreneur, and the founder of Fern Projects, PR, and Maus. Her work seamlessly blends contemporary elegance with Sri Lankan craftsmanship, establishing her as a leading creative force in design, fashion, and lifestyle retail.
Niloufer Anverally
Niloufer Esufally Anverally is a pioneering fashion entrepreneur in Sri Lanka, celebrated for her refined aesthetic and visionary approach to retail. As the founder of Cotton Collection, she has played a transformative role in shaping the country’s contemporary fashion landscape. With a passion for empowering local designers and promoting sustainable, homegrown talent, Niloufer has created spaces that merge creativity, commerce, and culture. Her entrepreneurial journey reflects a deep commitment to elevating Sri Lankan fashion onto the global stage while nurturing a new generation of creative voices.
Hasib Omar
Hasib Omar is a leading figure in Sri Lanka’s apparel industry and serves as a Director at Moose Clothing Company, one of the country’s fastest-growing casualwear brands. Under his leadership, Moose has become known for its modern designs, exceptional quality, and commitment to making global fashion accessible to Sri Lankan consumers. Hasib plays a key role in driving the brand’s vision, innovation, and sustainability initiatives, positioning Moose as a proud ambassador of Sri Lankan craftsmanship on the international stage.