Gillian Anderson, best known for her role as Dana Scully in The X-Files, has turned a forgotten colonial estate in Sri Lanka into a stunning luxury retreat.
Located just an hour from Colombo, the seven-acre property once stood abandoned for over 30 years. Built by an aristocratic family, the home features soaring 40-foot ceilings and rare architectural charm.
Anderson purchased the crumbling structure and spent four years restoring it with local craftsmen. The renovation included new roofing, expanded verandas, modern kitchens, and antique details like reflagged courtyards and vintage fixtures.
Blending global influences with Sri Lankan heritage, the interiors feature Indian antiques, Italian marble, and hand-painted ceilings by a Spanish artist. A dining table from Anderson’s Malibu home now anchors the space.
Originally meant as a private getaway, the estate evolved into a boutique hotel with 13 bedrooms, lush gardens, and tranquil views. While plans for an infinity pool remain, the home is fully equipped with eco-friendly amenities and luxury comforts.
Anderson’s restored Sri Lankan estate now welcomes guests from around the world, offering a unique mix of history, design, and tropical serenity.
Overlooking lush greenery, the gracefully curved balcony with intricate railings offers a peaceful retreat to unwind and take in the natural surroundings.
Framed by graceful arches and elegant lantern chandeliers, this hallway welcomes abundant natural light, merging timeless architecture with tranquil sophistication.
Tucked within vibrant tropical greenery, the reflective pool provides a serene spot to soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding lush mountains.
A soaring vaulted ceiling with exposed beams lends rustic charm to this expansive lounge, where inviting seating areas create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation.
Framed by grand white columns, this sunlit patio dining area offers an idyllic setting for meals surrounded by the peaceful beauty of nature.
Bathed in natural light, the expansive dining area features a long table beneath sleek minimalist chandeliers, offering a warm and welcoming space for gatherings and shared meals.
The unique living room with polished wooden floors and vintage cabinetry exudes timeless elegance, while the chaise lounge adds a touch of modern comfort.
This bedroom features a beautifully carved wooden bed frame that showcases traditional craftsmanship, enhanced by soft natural light and calming neutral décor for a warm, welcoming retreat.
This airy bedroom showcases a striking four-poster bed with rich dark wood posts, while expansive windows fill the space with warm natural light.
This elegant bathroom pairs smooth stone finishes with gentle natural light, offering a tranquil retreat complete with a walk-in shower and deep soaking tub.
A striking ceiling fan contrasts with the intricately hand-painted ceiling, infusing the space with a blend of traditional artistry and refined elegance.
A Lifelong Passion for Real Estate
Anderson’s fascination with architecture and design began in her teens, sparking a deep-rooted passion for real estate.
Throughout her life, she has acquired and transformed multiple homes, approaching each one as a personal work of art and creative expression.
Her passion for real estate goes beyond a pastime—it’s a form of artistic expression outside her acting career.
From transforming neglected structures into stylish apartments to crafting spaces that reflect her personal journey, Anderson uses each property as a canvas for her creativity.
Transforming Spaces into Personal Sanctuaries
Anderson infuses every home she owns with a unique blend of global style and local artistry.
Her London residence showcases rich wooden furnishings and vibrant color palettes, while her Sri Lankan estate harmoniously merges Mediterranean elegance with South Asian charm.
Drawing inspiration from her years in Vancouver, Los Angeles, and London, Anderson fills her homes with curated pieces from around the world, showcasing her eclectic and refined taste.
Her talent for reviving neglected properties into vibrant, livable sanctuaries highlights her enduring love for history, architecture, and meaningful design.
While her Sri Lankan estate now welcomes guests as a boutique hotel, Anderson’s London home remains a private haven, reflecting the harmony she strikes between career and personal life.
Each property stands as more than just a residence—they are enduring testaments to her creative spirit and design vision.