Gillian Anderson, acclaimed for her portrayal of FBI Agent Dana Scully in The X-Files, is equally known for her passion for real estate.
Her Sri Lankan home, an architectural marvel built by a well-known aristocratic family, is one of the most significant restoration projects she has undertaken.
Located about an hour’s drive from Colombo, this estate sits on seven acres of lush, tropical grounds, providing both seclusion and serenity.
Abandoned for over 30 years before Anderson acquired it, the property features ceilings towering 40 feet high, originally constructed with enough height to accommodate elephants.
The house had fallen into disrepair, resembling more of a haunted mansion than a home, but its unique history and potential sparked Anderson’s desire to bring it back to life.
Over several years, she transformed this forgotten relic into a luxurious hotel, a reflection of her distinct style and love for architectural revival.
Years of Passionate Renovation
Anderson poured her heart into restoring this once-forgotten Sri Lankan home.
Making frequent trips to the country, she worked closely with a local project manager and his team to breathe new life into the estate.
The restoration was extensive: the main house was reroofed, verandas were expanded to capture more light, and numerous outbuildings were converted into additional living spaces.
Modern kitchens and bathrooms were installed, blending seamlessly with the historic charm of the home.
An internal courtyard was reflagged using antique street stones, adding a sense of authenticity to the space.
Each renovation decision was meticulously made to enhance the property while preserving its architectural integrity.
After four years of dedicated work, Anderson had turned the estate into a masterpiece of historical preservation.
A Global Influence on Design
The interiors of the estate are a reflection of Anderson’s well-traveled life and international sensibilities.
She filled the home with a fascinating mix of furnishings and decor, many pieces sourced from around the world.
The dining table, for instance, was once part of her Malibu home and features an Indian base of hammered silver, paired with a tabletop made from jarrah wood railway sleepers.
Antique light fixtures and decorative glass were imported from India, while Italian marble adorns the bathrooms, adding a touch of old-world European elegance.
The ceilings were painted by a Spanish artist, transforming the house into a vibrant, creative space that echoes Anderson’s artistic spirit.
Every corner of the home tells a story, blending the influences of different cultures with the beauty of Sri Lankan craftsmanship.
Converted into a Boutique Hotel
Though Anderson initially envisioned the estate as a private retreat for herself and her family, her plans shifted over time.
She realized the property’s potential as a boutique hotel, given its scale and beauty.
Boasting 13 bedrooms, multiple kitchens, and numerous living areas, the house was perfectly suited for such a purpose. Surrounded by lush greenery and the tranquil atmosphere of the Sri Lankan countryside, the estate offered an ideal setting for visitors seeking a luxurious escape.
While Anderson’s initial idea was to keep the space exclusively for her own use, she eventually decided to open it to others.
Today, the property has been converted into a boutique hotel, offering a glimpse of the world-class restoration and design she poured into it over the years.
A Tranquil Retreat with Modern Amenities
Even with its deep connection to the past, the home is outfitted with modern conveniences that enhance the experience of those who visit.
Anderson brought in eco-friendly air conditioning units from China, ensuring the house remains energy-efficient despite its size.
Plans were drawn up for an infinity pool on high ground, which would offer panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, although Anderson left this project for future owners to complete.
She crafted a space that blends the old with the new, creating a peaceful retreat that offers both comfort and luxury.
The estate, now functioning as a boutique hotel, stands as a symbol of Anderson’s creative vision, blending the historic character of Sri Lanka with the influences of her global lifestyle.
Photos of the Sri Lankan Property
A lush green lawn surrounds the property, while the home’s open balconies and intricate latticework give it a blend of colonial elegance and tranquility.
Overlooking the serene greenery, the curved balcony, with its ornate railings, provides a perfect spot for quiet reflection and enjoying nature’s beauty.
This hallway, framed by multiple arches and elegant lantern chandeliers, invites natural light to flood the space, blending classical architecture with serene simplicity.
Nestled amidst rich tropical foliage, this reflective pool offers a peaceful vantage point for admiring the surrounding lush mountains.
A high-vaulted ceiling with exposed beams gives this spacious lounge a rustic charm, perfectly complemented by cozy seating areas that encourage relaxation.
Large white columns frame this sun-drenched patio dining space, ideal for enjoying meals while immersed in the tranquility of nature.
The spacious dining area, with a long table under minimalist chandeliers, is bathed in natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere for shared meals and gatherings.
The unique living room with polished wooden floors and vintage cabinetry exudes timeless elegance, while the chaise lounge adds a touch of modern comfort.
A carved wooden bed frame in this bedroom blends traditional craftsmanship with a cozy, inviting ambiance, while natural light highlights the neutral tones of the decor.
The spacious bedroom features a four-poster bed with dark wooden posts and large windows flooding the room with natural light.
A luxurious bathroom combines sleek stonework with soft natural lighting, creating a serene space with a walk-in shower and a deep soaking tub.
The ceiling fan stands out against a beautifully ornate, hand-painted ceiling, adding a touch of traditional elegance to the space.
An intricately designed stone mosaic decorates the outdoor area, showcasing detailed craftsmanship in a circular floral pattern.
Creative Vision in London’s East End
In contrast to her Sri Lankan retreat, Anderson’s London home reflects a modern yet tranquil space in the heart of the city.
Situated in a historically rich neighborhood, Anderson has created a peaceful haven filled with eclectic furniture and artistic pieces.
Her forest-green velvet sofa, Persian-style rugs, and intricately designed wooden doors contribute to an interior that balances modern comfort with historical charm.
Despite being located in the bustling capital, Anderson describes the house as surprisingly quiet, offering a serene environment for her and her family.
A Lifelong Passion for Real Estate
Anderson’s love for property began in her teenage years when she first became enamored with design and architecture.
Over the years, she has owned and transformed numerous homes, treating them as creative projects.
Her interest in real estate is not just a hobby but a way to express her artistic side when she’s not acting.
Whether converting an abandoned building into apartments or designing a space to reflect personal history, Anderson’s properties serve as extensions of her creativity.
Transforming Spaces into Personal Sanctuaries
In each of her homes, Anderson combines global influences with local craftsmanship.
Her London home features ornate wooden furnishings and bold color schemes, while her Sri Lankan mansion blends Mediterranean and South Asian elements.
With influences from her time living in Vancouver, Los Angeles, and London, Anderson’s properties are filled with treasures collected from her travels, reflecting her eclectic taste.
Her ability to turn neglected properties into vibrant, livable spaces speaks to her deep appreciation for history and architecture.
While her Sri Lankan home has taken on new life as a hotel, her London home remains a personal retreat, showcasing the balance she maintains between her professional and personal life.
These homes are not only places of residence but also lasting markers of her creativity and vision.
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