Over the past two decades Anjalendran has established himself as one of Sri Lanka's leading architects. Born into a family of Jaffna Tamils and a student of the prolific and influential Geoffrey Bawa, Anjalendran's buildings are known across the Indian subcontinent for their simple directness, modern spirit, and acknowledgment of the rich vernacular traditions of Sri Lanka.

According to Sri Lankan architecture authority Professor David Robson, most architecture today is "procured," with the architect just one of a huge team of specialists. By contrast,  Anjalendran is the sole designer in his practice, managing every aspect of the project, from the first encounter with the client to final handover of the finished building. He also focuses—à la Frank Lloyd Wright—on landscaping, furniture, and decoration.

Robson created a comprehensive overview of Anjalendran's work with the book Anjalendran: Architect of Sri Lanka, and on Wednesday, December 2, he and Anjalendran were at the Asia Society in New York, for a discussion on what it means to be an 'architect of Sri Lanka.'

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