This festive season, Cinnamon Life, City of Dreams, unveils a celebration unlike any other, brought to life in partnership with Lata Pata Vintage. A brand synonymous with circular consumption, pre-loved treasures, and artful upcycling, Lata Pata Vintage has reimagined the property’s signature spaces with touches of whimsy, sustainability, and Sri Lankan luxe.
Through their ethos of Re-use, Re-love, Re-imagine, they have transformed existing décor with thoughtful styling, inventive repurposing, and the support of Cinnamon Life’s gifted floral team.
Since Prince Albert popularized the Christmas tree in Britain in the mid-19th century, it has become the defining symbol of the season. At Cinnamon Life, however, tradition has been turned delightfully on its head. This year’s centerpiece, a breathtaking twenty-foot tree in the entrance lobby, rips up the rulebook. Instead of adorning the tree itself, a constellation of glittering baubles is suspended around it, creating a magical inversion that feels both avant-garde and deeply nostalgic. Encased to evoke the dreamlike quality of a snow globe, the installation shimmers with jewel-like orbs that gleam as the light shifts. Though modern in execution, the purity and symbolism of the Christmas tree remain untouched. Set upon a gold-mirrored platform, the tree reflects dancing beams of light, amplifying the sense of stepping into an iridescent, ethereal dreamscape; crafted with imagination, emotion, and wonder.
But the enchantment begins long before guests enter the lobby. The grand drive into the property is framed by a parade of illuminated Christmas trees, repurposed from previous years, arranged in ascending height. This elegant procession leads to a glorious nativity scene set against a soaring 3D cathedral backdrop, complete with angels and stained-glass windows. In Sri Lankan spirit, it echoes the idea of a Christmas “Pandol”: a festive landmark shared with the public, inviting joy even to those simply passing by.
Inside, the lobby introduces one of the season’s most distinctive design touches: hand-draped velvet Christmas trees in rich burgundy hues. Complementing the space’s warm orange palette, these repurposed creations add a layer of vintage glamour while honouring Lata Pata’s commitment to sustainability. They embody a fusion of heritage, elegance, and contemporary sensibility; much like Cinnamon Life itself.
Adding sweetness to the scene is ‘The Festive Nook,’ a charming gingerbread house complete with whimsical reindeer and miniature Christmas trees. Bursting with handcrafted seasonal treats, it showcases the exceptional talent of Cinnamon Life’s culinary team, who bring Christmas to life through flavour, artistry, and nostalgia. Perfect for gifting or indulging, the Festive Nook is a celebration in itself.
Magic continues throughout the property, with every floor offering a unique festive moment. Discover Santa’s Mailbox, an irresistibly adorable candy cane tree with a gingerbread train, Quizine’s festive tree and wreaths scented with cinnamon and dried orange, the golden wreaths crowning the pillars at Staten Bar & Grill, the ribboned and hand-painted tree at Bistro de Mares, the sculptural gold tree welcoming guests to Gatz, and even a charming luggage-trolley display piled high with beautifully wrapped presents. Each vignette tells its own story; distinctive, thoughtful, and designed to delight all who wander through.
This year’s transformation is the work of Leesha Captain, Minoli Ratnayake, and Thushara Abeyratne, guided by the visionary leadership of Cinnamon Life CEO and GM Sanjiv Hulugalle and his exceptional team. A hotelier at heart, Hulugalle leads with authenticity, empathy, and creativity. “Be real, and serve from the heart,” he says. “That’s how magic happens.”
The result is a coming-together of craftsmanship, warmth, and optimism, exactly what this season calls for. Cinnamon Life and Lata Pata Vintage have not only decorated a property; they have created a festive world where tradition meets reinvention, where sustainability meets style, and where every guest can rediscover the joy of Christmas magic.
