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Recent Urban development in Bangladesh

Some of these are extremely impressive.

Thanks Brother. :-)

I don't have any delusions on what is possible (or not) architecturally in Bangladesh, but our structural engineering and architect professionals were always well trained and done work of high quality compared to our stature as a developing country.

Our parliament building was designed in the late 60's as a joint collaboration between the teacher student team of Louis Kahn and Mazharul Islam - Mr. Mazharul was the state architect of Pakistan under President Ayub Khan. Construction started after 1971 and was completed in about five years time. Image below. This is the mother of the modernist architectural movement in Bangladesh.

Mr. Mazharul formed an atelier and trained many bright architects locally in vernacular inspired architecture, which was a mixture of Bauhaus simplicity (symmetry of space and form) as well as elements of local practicality (tropical overhanging eaves and aesthetically pleasing open spaces, taming extremes of heat, bright sun, wind and rainfall).

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Banani Club,Banani

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Shanta Skymark,Gulshan

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South Square,Gulshan

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Mobil House,Gulshan

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Hilton,Gulshan

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Rupayan Trade Center,Banglamotor

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BTI Landmark,Gulshan

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Navana Pristine Pavilion, Gulshan

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Navana Zohura Square,Banglamotor

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Rangs Babylonia,Tejgoan gulshan link road

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Impetus Center,Tejgoan gulshan link road
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AIUB,Bashundhara

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SB Tower, Shantinagar

16 storied mixed-use building with infinity deck pool
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Deshbandhu Tower, Bogra
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Pabna City Centre Shopping Mall
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Pabna New Market

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Bogra Police Plaza

10 storied commercial building with cinema hall
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Comilla Police Plaza, near Stadium

15 storied commercial building
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Chinese company selected to build Cox's Bazar Int’l Airport passenger terminal
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Online Desk

China Railway First Group Co Ltd (CRFG), a Chinese company, has been selected to construct an international passenger terminal at Cox's Bazar Airport to make it an international airport soon.

The Chinese company, in cooperation with a local construction company, National Development Engineers Ltd (NDE), will built the terminal at a cost of Tk 275 crore, agencies report.

When completed, international flights will be able to land at the airport, which would be the country's fourth international airport.

The government had earlier announced that Cox's Bazar would be developed as a tourism city and the Moheshkhali area as an investment hub.

Md Mohibul Haque, acting Secretary of the civil aviation ministry, in his proposal said that the civil aviation authorities will provide boarding bridge facilities, escalator, lift, baggage handling system, and set up a central air-conditioning system, PA system and baggage scanning machines at the airport.

"A total of 10,912.49 square feet. building and 49,753 square feet of apron and connecting taxi-way would be constructed by December this year," the proposal said.

The area of the present terminal, including arrival, departure and VIP arrival lounge, is 10,000 square feet.
After the terminal building is completed, the number of domestic and international passengers would increase sharply because of the possible landing of wide-bodied aircrafts.
 
Showcasing the interior design work from Azrin Alom for MAX group (local infrastructure firm).

MAX Corporate Office | Architect Azrin Alom

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Max Corporate Office. © Azrin Alom
Name: Azrin Alom
Year: 2017
Location: Dhaka
Client: Max Group
A corporate head office designed with the blend of work and life; busy and cozy gesture. This is a 22000 sqft office space completed in just eight months. Starting from the layout and choice of material to the neat details, the project exemplifies the corporate emblem of the client.

Entrance and Lobby

With the focus on reception desk, the lobby ensures comfortable waiting space while providing brief idea about the office atmosphere.






Max Corporate Office. © Azrin Alom


Office Space

The office layout ensures work-centric space with transparency, a key point of Open Office Planning culture. Deliberately scattered sitting arrangements with coffee kiosk seem to follow the standard health and well being requirements which allow stretching and walking intermittent to work.



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Max Corporate Office. © Azrin Alom


Private Workstations and Cozy Meetings

Private workstations are designated and arranged in a way to ensure privacy with opportunities for private business discussions. Variable options for relaxation are also present.






Max Corporate Office. © Azrin Alom

Max Corporate Office. © Azrin Alom


Meeting Rooms

The meeting spaces have enough variants for large and small group arrangements, providing comfortable atmosphere for public and private business discussions.








Max Corporate Office. © Azrin Alom


Cafeteria

The environment of the cafeteria takes one out of the work stress and let him enjoy his meal. It has enough space for arrangement of small office parties and after office/weekend mingling.

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Max Corporate Office. © Azrin Alom
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Max Corporate Office. © Azrin Alom


Terrace

An utmost attraction, the green terrace with the city view relates the office users with the bustling outer world and let people take a breath in the fresh air.



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KSRM Office Interior by Studio Extension

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KSRM – Brand and Marketing Department | © studio extension
Name: Raiyan Samiul Haque & Ahmed bin Parvez
Year: 2017
Location: Gulshan Circle-2, Dhaka
Client: KSRM (Steel processor)
The newly envisioned office interior for Brand and Marketing department of KSRM reflects a fresh direction to achieve workplace environment that supports specific business drivers and expresses the corporate brand and mission, while creating a comfortable and stimulating ambiance for the users. Designed by STUDIO EXTENSION, the project opts for a simple plan humanizing modes of interaction between life and space while denying the manners of ‘cubicle identity’.

From the Architects:

An industry- a symbolic union of collective efforts for growth, steel-an entity taken to mass usage as skeleton for urban shelter of various forms. A corporation that brings into being the spirit of a steel industry for more than two decades. This was the brief given when a floor space stretching 635 square meters on the 5th floor of Landview Tower at Gulshan-2 was provided to be transformed into the breathing hub of the KSRM’s Brand and Marketing department.

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Reception area © studio extension


The formative basis of functional arrangement had to be infused with the progressive nature of a reputed company that had loyally served its clients. Within the constraints of a peculiar outline that formed the perimeter of the designed area, it was a task of arranging a suitable spatial layout which would speak to each other, and be each other’s guide as if the dead spaces could talk even when no one was listening.

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MD Contemplating room |© studio extension


Constraints are what make exploration interesting, and when the mindset of the client suggests the possibility of breaking boundaries in terms of re-defining corporate office culture, the exploration floats into the Peruvian skies of innovation and self-education.

The plan for the project was simple: it’s sole objective of bringing out the true nature of simplicity demolishing the manners of ‘cubicle identity’ branching out to the tiniest of details that magnifies and humanizes modes of interaction between life and space.

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Floor plan | © studio extension
Starting from scratch in sub-distributing zones of activities keeping in mind the sensitivity in blurring barriers, a careful set of walls, some solid and many transparent were outlined and erected. The ceiling was kept bare for the main working hub: a subtle reminder of the pragmatism in thought and a visual essence of decay that is the only constant in the lifetime of material world. A massive triangular table was the main piece of furniture designed at the work-station zone, with the purpose of unifying the busy marketing and brand executives within an open and visually interactive work-space yet ensuring comfort of privacy. The work-zone was surrounded on three sides by a cluster of individual desks for hierarchical significance and also in accordance to diversified functions.

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Transition | © studio extension


The trinity of walls, painted blood-red, the brand color of KSRM served the purpose of holding the switches to light up the main work area. For each of the individual desks were ‘power poles’ wrapped in stainless steel and red supplying the necessary power requirements of the users at their desks.

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Workstation | © studio extension
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© studio extension


The office for KSRM needed storage space, and that too in huge amounts. This gave an opportunity to turn a massive storage space of lockers into a wall of complex-looking composition of vertical and horizontal lines demarked by numbers and acting as a feature wall to separate the work zone and the server room.

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Personal locker detail | © studio extension
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Details | © studio extension


The two spot-meeting cubicles that almost fronted the entrance were given a solid backdrop, their floors being floated to create visual separation from the corridor that stretches the entrance lobby to the work-station.

A simple idea of unification was ideal in the visual imprints created within the spaces of the office. The power of triangulation-the basic yet most intriguing form of mathematical aesthetics was chosen as the feature symbol in furniture design, in the massive graphic work on the stretch of the bay of glassed windows, even in the vision panels of wooden doors where required-not just for the sake of design but to remind the users about the importance of triangulating and branching out towards the vast horizon of ‘near perfection’ that one seeks from within but is too distracted to apply.

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Individual workstation | © studio extension
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© studio extension




About STUDIO EXTENSION:

Incepted in 2010 and formally established in 2011, studio extension is a creative design platform that comprises of core members and comrades, each exploring various fields of celebrating creativity mostly from architecture & graphic backgrounds.The core values of the studio is based on the means of true and honest exchange of knowledge in different moulds, and through that, achieve a sacred feat of responsive feedback and altering scopes.
 
ACI AQUA- LAB & SOLUTION | Team AYOTEEK™

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©AYOTEEK™. Photo credit: Ar. ASM Bashirul Alam
Name: Ar. Muhammed Kasif Hasnaen, Ar. ASM Bashirul Alam, Ar. Mehrab Iftekhar, Ar. Mumtahina Kabir, Ar. Adhiti Paramita
Year: 2017
Location: Jhautola Main Road, Cox’s Bazar
Client: ACI
A decent display and activity space with the hint of enthusiastic intervention.

|From the Architect|

The project ACI AQUA- LAB & SOLUTION designed by Team AYOTEEK™ primarily aims to spread information about shrimp culture as well as to test larva for healthy shrimp, among the local shrimp culture business. Due to a close proximity to the sea and the nature of the facility, the project takes the phenomena of reflecting upon the wide sea along with a sandy beach as core idea and creates an abstract setting for it.


©AYOTEEK™. Photo credit: Ar. ASM Bashirul Alam



©AYOTEEK™. Photo credit: Ar. ASM Bashirul Alam



Ground Floor Plan. ©AYOTEEK™. Photo credit: Ar. ASM Bashirul Alam


On approach,the visitors will receive a gentle sandy plaza with a garden & seating at outdoor. Large openings connect the visitors both from indoor and outdoor so that they can get an idea of the shop before they enter the premise. On the inside, a white wavy patterned feature wall has been incorporated directly opposite to the plaza with a contrast of deep brown glossy floor to resemble the wide sea. Immediately upon entering the facility one gets reminded of standing facing the sea. Artificial light creates a play to animate the patterned surface. The wall has been generated in rhinoceros combined with the grasshopper plugin.Triangular wooden blocks with a mathematical proportion has been placed with equal spacing to achieve four different wave patterns.


Wall pattarn. ©AYOTEEK™. Photo credit: Ar. ASM Bashirul Alam



©AYOTEEK™. Photo credit: Ar. ASM Bashirul Alam



©AYOTEEK™. Photo credit: Ar. ASM Bashirul Alam


White color for wall and ceiling with warm white spot lights both from ceiling and floor has been used to create a neutral setup. Black metal screen at the outdoor has been used to mitigate the inadequacy of the existing building roof.




©AYOTEEK™. Photo credit: Ar. ASM Bashirul Alam


Program of the project required two major portion: firstly, an open flexible space,accommodating reception, waiting lounge, display area and can be used as a training or seminar room from time to time. And secondly, as back office, administration area, a small sample test laboratory, washroom and a store for miscellaneous products.


©AYOTEEK™. Photo credit: Ar. ASM Bashirul Alam



©AYOTEEK™. Photo credit: Ar. ASM Bashirul Alam



©AYOTEEK™. Photo credit: Ar. ASM Bashirul Alam


In order to achieve a lofty feeling, use of false ceiling has been discarded. Three black metal frames running along the longer direction have replaced the orthodox false ceiling concept. Cool white down lights have been placed over these frames in a staggered formation to illuminate the area.

The construction of the whole project has been segmented into three major phases. Phase-I was the showroom and laboratory along with other amenities. Phase-II was the landscape in front of the showroom. The Third phase is a cold storage for the shrimp larva which is yet to be built.

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©AYOTEEK™. Photo credit: Ar. ASM Bashirul Alam


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©AYOTEEK™. Photo credit: Ar. ASM Bashirul Alam


Project Facts:

Site Area: 217.65 sqm

Built up Area: 135.32 sqm

Landscape Area: 82.33 sqm
 
Akij Building Material Pavilion in DITF-2018 | Volumezero Ltd

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Akij Pavilion © Volumezero Ltd | Photograph by Syeda Mushda Ali
Name: Volumezero Ltd.
Year: 2018
Location: Dhaka International Trade Fair, Agargaon, Dhaka
Client: Akij Group
With its modern form and expressive materials, this pavilion reinstates the trend of creating remarkable structures by architects for expos in Bangladesh. In its clear glazes and lush indoor space, the pavilion exemplifies the architect’s vision while complying with corporate demand and visitor’s comfort. The pavilion won the 1st Prize in Premium Pavilion Category - Editor

| From the Architect |

Dhaka International Trade Fair, DITF is a popular platform for Local and International Manufacturers to showcase and promote their products, and also one of the most nationally participated events of the country. AKIJ has been around in the Building Material Manufacturing Industry for quite a while and intended to be a part of DITF 2018 with a pavilion of its own.


Akij Pavilion © Volumezero Ltd | Photo credit: F. M. Faruque Abdullah Shawon

Akij Pavilion © Volumezero Ltd | Photo credit : F. M. Faruque Abdullah Shawon


A 50 ft x 50 ft square lot was allocated by the DITF authority for a premium pavilion for AKIJ with a height limit of about 33 feet. As is customary for pavilions at DITF, the structure demanded installation within the shortest possible time.While the client envisioned reuse at a different location upon completion of DITF 2018,the use of AKIJ’s wide range of building materials was requested by the client to make the whole construction process cost effective and sustainable. The idea was to envision a pavilion that itself became an exhibit.


Akij Pavilion © Volumezero Ltd | illustration: Mohaimeen Islam

Akij Pavilion_Floor plans © Volumezero Ltd | illustration : Lamia Wali Upama

Akij Pavilion © Volumezero Ltd | illustration: Lamia Wali Upama


The design form is a cube which essentially would symbolize the notion of maximum space utilization. The use of clear-glass and steel structure embodies industrial aesthetics of the contemporary period which invariably iconizes the progressive mindset of AKIJ Group. With careful articulation of the volume inside, the form was gently chiseled diagonally to create a plaza at the forecourt. This subtraction also provided a canopied entry which is both inviting and dynamic by nature.When seen in plan the square is comprised of four smaller quadrants, one of which is a triple heighted space containing a spacious L shaped stair connecting the three floors vertically. The triple height atrium allows acknowledgement of the aesthetic simplicity of the internal spaces.

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Akij Pavilion © Volumezero Ltd | Photo credit : M. Faruque Abdullah Shawon
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Akij Pavilion © Volumezero Ltd | Photo credit : Mohaimeen Islam
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Akij Pavilion © Volumezero Ltd | Photo credit : Mohaimeen Islam
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Akij Pavilion © Volumezero Ltd | Photo credit : F. M. Faruque Abdullah Shawon
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Akij Pavilion © Volumezero Ltd | Photo credit : Syeda Mushda Ali
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Akij Pavilion © Volumezero Ltd | Photo credit : F. M. Faruque Abdullah Shawon
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Akij Pavilion © Volumezero Ltd | Photo credit : F. M. Faruque Abdullah Shawon
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Akij Pavilion © Volumezero Ltd | | Photo credit : F. M. Faruque Abdullah Shawon


The interior backdrop is a neutral palette against which AKIJ building materials are showcased. At the exterior, water-proof board-louvers on the curtain-glasses are installed in such a way that they fragment the loud reflections of the surroundings while allowing a textural variant. At its simplest AKIJ pavilion at the DITF 2018 was a purist response. After DITF this pavilion will be moved to Chittagong International trade fair, Polo Garden, Chittagong.

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Akij Pavilion © Volumezero Ltd | Photo credit : F. M. Faruque Abdullah Shawon
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Akij Pavilion © Volumezero Ltd | Photo credit : F. M. Faruque Abdullah Shawon


PROJECT CREDIT

Lead Architect: Mohammad Foyez Ullah

Project Architects: Bashirul Mughni, Mohaimeen Islam Badhon, A.K.M. Saleh Ahmed Anik

Associates: Masud Karim, Mohammad Ali, Apurbo Hussain, NazmulIslam Babu

Photographs: Syeda Mushda Ali & F. M. Faruque Abdullah Shawon
 
One of my favorite resort projects in Bangladesh. Revisited....

Dusai Resort & Spa – Sylhet | VITTI Sthapati Brindo Ltd.


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Dusai Resort & Spa by VITTI Sthapati Brindo Ltd. | Photo Courtesy : Hasan Saifuddin Chandan
Name: VITTI Sthapati Brindo Ltd.
Year: 2010 - 2013
Location: Moulvi Bazaar, Sylhet
Client: Nasser Rahman
Dusai Resort & Spa, an award winning project by VITTI Sthapati Brindo Ltd. is a paragon of architectural sensitiveness, contextual response and cultural consideration. The project won 'Gold' in '9th International Design Award' competition contemplating architects' reputation.

| From the architect |

Dusai Resort & Spa is a destination resort equipped to serve more than 180 guests at a time with guest living facilities of 80 rooms, 3 restaurants, children’s playground facilities, swimming pool, spa, convention hall etc . Guestrooms are nested on top of the hillocks while the services and walkways are placed in the valleys.

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Dusai Resort & Spa | VITTI Sthapati Brindo Ltd.

PROGRAM:

  • Reception Hall Wing, equipped with car drop, open lounge facilities and back office. The open pavilion like structure floats in the water surrounding the reception area.
  • Convention Centre and Motel Wing, equipped to accommodate 60 guests with 20 rooms and a convention hall for 70 persons for meetings and events with dining facility.
  • Main hotel, located at the central area consisting 30 rooms for 60 guests. It also accommodates back of house facilities and main kitchen and laundry facilities in the semi-basement area.
  • 4 Suite Villas, accommodates 40 guests in Duplex and Triplex with 2 no. of bedroom suites in each villa.
  • 5 Deluxe Villas, accommodating 48 guests in 24 rooms, each villa consisting independent 4 guest rooms
  • 2 Presidential Villas, of independent cottages with separate guest rooms
  • Spa with 6 treatment rooms with the view of the hills
  • 3 Thematic Restaurants with dining and all equipped kitchen facilities
  • Boat Station, docking 10 boats.
  • Gym, for 6 users with locker room and changing facility for male and female and steam bath.
  • Parking with 55 car parking facilities with 4 minivans along with drivers waiting shed.
  • Drivers Dormitory for 10 person in 3 rooms.
  • Children’s Play Area in the valley for the enjoyment of different age group of children
  • Swimming pool in 3 tiers. First tier consisting Jacuzzi pool, in second relaxing pool and at the end lap pool with heating facilities. It has large deck area and a sunken café.
  • Guest Maid Dormitory for 12 persons
  • Mosque for 100 persons
  • GM & Executive Quarters for 16 Executives
  • Staff Accommodation Bldg with 16 rooms accommodating 70 staffs
  • Existing Owners Bungalow
  • Golf Lounge And Bar
  • Utility Bldg for electro mechanical facilities
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Concept Diagram _ Dusai Resort & Spa | VITTI Sthapati Brindo Ltd.

Master Plan _ Dusai Resort & Spa | VITTI Sthapati Brindo Ltd.


PROJECT HISTORY

The site used to be a garden and Mr. Naser Rahman’s (the client) ancestors’ vacation house. All the trees were planted and nurtured by his father, the ex finance minister of the country. He fostered this serene landscape to be enjoyed by his 5 children and their grand children. Several years after his parents’ demise Mr. Rahman decided to expand this vacation house to be used by their extended family member. Later on in 2010 considering the public demand for tourism, he decided to transform their vacation house into a resort and share the serene environment with the people. The resort is named after his parents using their initials, Du+Sai=Dusai. The design work started in 2009 and later in 2010, January the construction commenced. It began with the villas followed by Staff accommodation Buildings and main building in places. The Resort inaugurated in mid 2012 with soft opening. The resort is 4 hours drive from capital Dhaka. So it became a popular destination for people seeking retreat on weekends. The resort hosts regular cultural shows and programs on different national holidays. The landscape also has flourished over these two years of occupancy.





Longitudinal Sections _ Dusai Resort & Spa | VITTI Sthapati Brindo Ltd.

Plan of Deluxe Villa & Spa | VITTI Sthapati Brindo Ltd.

Section _ Deluxe Villa | VITTI Sthapati Brindo Ltd.


ARCHITECTURAL REPORT

Harbored in the serene green hillocks of tea plantations in northeast Bangladesh, “Dusai Resort & Spa” is the first destination resort of its kind in Bangladesh. The complex exudes the essence of a tribal village with its formation along the sloping hills. It includes residential, dining, swimming pool, spa, conference, and indoor and outdoor sports facilities. The site consists of three shallow hills and valleys. The public area with reception and convention hall is placed on the first hill and all the guest rooms are places on the slope of the hills for ease of movement. Other facilities are placed towards the valley. The vehicular circulation ends in public area and the journey towards guest area is starts by foot or electric car. The internal roads and walkways are placed in a round trip encompassing the complex allowing one to travel the whole area in circular motion. The guest facility features a main hotel block and stand-alone bungalows. There are two types of bungalows: cottages for families in a semi-private setting and deluxe cottages for couples in a more private setting, on the slopes of the south-facing hill. Service amenities blend semi private and private zones.

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Plan _ Main Hotel _ Dusai Resort & Spa | VITTI Sthapati Brindo Ltd.

Plan _ Tea Valley Restaurant _ Dusai Resort & Spa | VITTI Sthapati Brindo Ltd.

Valley Restaurant: This one is built as a curve respecting natural contour. Roof has a composite wood and metal frame structure with thatch. | Photo Courtesy : Digita Interactive Limited


Sylhet is home to the “Khasiya” tribes. The project layout is inspired by their indigenous housing style to blend with the nature and hilly region. The local climate causes high rain with flash floods during the rainy seasons, therefore pitch roofs are incorporated. The structures sit on concrete frames anchored to ground allowing the villas hanging on the edge of slope without disturbing the natural contour. Existing trees shape out the setting of the villas, so that the wilderness is unharmed. The resort is designed by cautiously considering the natural setting and contour site. This resort allows the guests relish the essence of living within nature.

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PROJECT TECHNOLOGY

The resort showcases a hybrid construction system of indigenous tea estate bungalows and standardized concrete frame structure. Local indigenous wood joinery techniques were combined with contemporary metal joinery systems. The results were sleek, lightweight wooden trusses that also have metal plates, nuts and bolts. Slender, concrete framing anchored to the ground raises the structure above soil. A roof truss forms the shape of the structure, which is then cladded with locally available lightweight thatch and mud tiles. These raised structures are then approached by an independent open riser stairs. Local technology and materials with local workmanship have been extensively used here.

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Reception Hall : Open pavilion style structure with sloped, mud tiled roof and wooden truss framing. Set in a lush green and non air conditioned. | Photo Courtesy : Hasan Saifuddin Chandan


MATERIALS

The project construction materials comprise of locally available materials combined with indigenous construction techniques. Concrete structure infills are comprised of brick walls. Outdoor facade rendered with fair face cement plaster and indoor facades comprises of regular cement mortar plaster rendered and painted. All floors are finished with homogenous matt finished tiles & Villas have wooden floors. General ceilings are cement plastered and finished with paint and some parts are dry gypsum plaster finished.

All the upper floors of the villas and the valley restaurant have exposed roof structure with bamboo & thatch roof ceiling. In some public spaces comprise exposed roof structure with wood and wood veneered finished ceiling. The hand rails grab bars and doors are made with locally acquired aged walnut colored solid wood. All out door surfaces are natural finish so that it blends well with the surrounding green nature. Pitch roofs are a mix of handmade mud tiles and thatch roof with high pitch varying 24-40 degree slope to withhold the heavy rain during monsoon.

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Detail _ Valley Rasturant _ Dusai Resort & Spa | VITTI Sthapati Brindo Ltd.
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Valley Restaurant Interior: Thatch roof, wood and metal composite truss, wooden frame work all are visible here. Interior decor has been kept to a minimum to emphasize the structure itself. | Photo Courtesy : Ahsanul Haque Rubel


PROJECT SERVICES

The entire project is powered from national grid. The project has an onsite 750 MW power substation. As secondary back up power 3 Diesel powered generators are used in a synchronized system. Garden lights and part of outdoor lights are powered off grid by solar power. The HVAC system is designed as dispersed system with Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) cooling system. This is an advanced energy efficient system. The water supply and sewage distribution system is also independent and off grid. The whole resort area is served by wifi net work, access control system and firefighting and detection system. It also has a heated swimming pool. The natural water reservoir and lakes work as water storage for firefighting. The resort complex contains its own independent automatic laundry facility. Its kitchens are fitted with advanced kitchen equipment.

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Permeable path leading to Bungalows. Bungalow roofs are thatched, facade is of concrete tiles. | Courtesy : Ahsanul Haque Rubel


CONSTRAINTS AND SOLUTIONS ACHIEVED

Contour Site:

The contour site posed as a constraint as well as adding diversity to the project. The hilly site on the natural setting urged for the wilderness to be untouched whereas building on such setting with usual techniques could offset its natural setting. Following the indigenous construction style and technique; the longer structures were broken into smaller ones matching contour as opposed to following regular construction techniques that would have called for the contour site to be flattened to build a sizable structure.

Landslide:

The structures are built on slopes that posed the threat of landslide which was resolved by installing slender concrete columns deep into the earth and mimicking the floating structures of local indigenous “Khasiya” houses.

Woods:

The land was deep into the woods and populated with tall trunk trees. It was difficult to find any buildable space. The villas had to be placed in between trees. These trees actually governed to shape out the final layout of this resort.

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Swimming Pool: It is set in a natural dip, surrounded by dense vegetation providing required privacy | Photo Courtesy : Md. Ishtiaque Zahir Titas


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Details: [a] Tiled path leading to spa on the right and Bungalows to left. Swimming pool. [c] Bungalows, characterized by deep overhangs. | Photo Courtesy : [a] & [c] Ahsanul Haque Rubel Hasan Saifuddin Chandan
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SPECIAL FEATURES




    • Prioritizing nature
The aesthetics of the resort always prioritized nature over built structures. Intrusion was kept to a minimum during placing structures on the contour site and surrounding green. Structures are built at the base of hillocks at a low height to highlight green in the background. Existing wilderness to the west was left untouched, only seven trees were taken down, and 300 new plants have been planted. Thus natural grass and shrubs were retained as ground coverage. Water bodies were re-excavated. In the buildings large openings with folding windows invite nature to come inside and let guests enjoy the spectacular and uninterrupted view of the surrounding landscape from their dwellings. Nature is not lost in its extravagance but nurtured.




    • Re-imagining the dream of living in a tea plantation area
The ingenuity of this complex lies in constructing a luxurious resort with latest facilities without losing its ethnic identity. In a tea plantation area, built structures give way to the existing landscape and blend with nature. Larger buildings were avoided in order to respect the site. The humbleness of the design blends the complex with tree gardens in surrounding.




    • Linear progression
The linear site imparts an impression of a journey. After arriving at the resort, guests start their journey by walking along the curved path through hills to reach their destination. Programs are distributed into public, semi-private and private zones in a consecutive manner. Reception is at the beginning of the public zone and leads to the semi-private zone with cottages for families, along with recreational amenities, such as a sports arena and swimming pool, followed by dining with a golf pudding range view, and ending at the spa facilities. Villas are placed around a courtyard, and the path loops around it that leads to the end of the complex and into a more private zone. The private zone at the end of the complex consists of exclusive residential cottages.




    • Contribution to local economy
During construction a portion of construction brick, cement, and wood were supplied by a local contractor, and local laborers were involved in construction. Eighty percent of staff employed in the resort are locals. Ninety percent of fresh food is also locally produced and supplied.

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Permeable path leading to spa on the left and bungalows on the right. Path in general follow the contour of the site. | Photo Courtesy : Digita Interactive Limited


DETAILS OF SUPPORTING STRUCTURES

The complex includes guest accommodation facilities with Spa, steam room and restaurant. Other services include parking, convention hall, swimming pool, poolside bar, Jacuzzi, gym, business center, laundry facilities, boat station etc.




    • Parking with 55 car parking facilities is situated at the East side of reception, in a semi paved soft green landscape. The cars drop off guests at the reception allowing them to appreciate the natural tranquility by walking through hillocks to reach their destination.
    • Convention Centre and Motel Wing is set behind the reception building as a separate entity, so that the larger gathering of convention guests do not disturb the serene harmony of the resort area. It has an all equipped convention hall for 70 people and residential facilities for 25 guests in 10 rooms..
    • Spa overlooks the green golf range stimulating a calming effect on guests. It contains 6 treatment rooms along with 5 person foot spa.
    • 3 Restaurants accommodates the guests with dining and high end kitchen facilities with one air conditioned and the other one naturally ventilated.
    • Boat Station is an open pavilion type structure at one end of the serpentine lake facing all the villas. It accommodates 10 boats.
    • Gym is located at the end of swimming pool at the base of a hill. It is fully furnished to accommodate 6 users.
    • Guest Maid Dormitory is incorporated in this resort in response to our social need, in order to accommodate young couple families with baby’s nanny to take care of their child.
    • Drivers Dormitory is situated near the entrance gate in order to assist car owners with drivers
    • Mosque is located near the entrance gate in order to serve the local community as per the clients requirement, since the owner comes from a pious family
    • Swimming pool with deck & sitting with heating system assisting all age group of guests
    • Childrens Play area is located in the valley on the other side of spa. It is a cave like concrete structure open towards field for the enjoyment of the guests’ children.
    • Golf Lounge And Bar
    • Utility Building accommodating substation, generator, boiler etc.
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Details: [a] Spa Lobby: Semi-open, shaded and naturally ventilated. Reception wooden truss details. [c] Main Hotel Lobby: Semi-open, shaded and naturally ventilated. | Photo Courtesy : [a] Digita Interactive Limited Mustapha Khalid Palash [c] Hasan Saifuddin Chandan
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Deluxe Villa Interior: Sloped thatch roof construction can be seem from inside. Folding partition opens completely to connect exterior with interior. | Photo Courtesy : Digita Interactive Limited


DETAILS OF LANDSCAPING

The existing natural water bodies were incorporated into the design of the complex. Natural herbal trees were unharmed and ground coverage shrubs were retained. Only 7 trees were removed during the construction and the wood was also used into structures. The landscaping technique caused least interruption in the natural setting and helped merging the structures with its surrounding.

SIGNIFICANCE OF PROJECT

This is the first of its kind spread out resort in the remote hilly region of Bangladesh. The project is a symbiotic and It employed local expertise and builders with appropriate local technology. It also embraces local culture and community. It contributed in local economy by acquiring the construction materials from local suppliers as well as daily fresh supply of grocery and vegetables from local community. In the resort regular cultural shows are arranged to foster the Sylhety and Khasiya culture.

PROJECT ABSTRACT

_ Name of the Project: Dusai Resort & Spa
_ Location: Moulovi Bazar, Sylhet
_ Name of the Client: Nasser Rahman
_ Site Area: 55567.90 sq. m.
_ Total built up area of the Project: 11103.42 sq. m.
_Year of Commencement: 2010
_Year of Completion: 2013


PROJECT TEAM

_ Architect: Md. Ishtiaque Zahir
Md. Iqbal Habib
_ Associated Architects: Nabila Aftab
Nabila Ali
Consultants
_ Architecture: VITTI Sthapati Brindo Ltd.
_ Structure: Tofazzel Hossain
Achintya Kumar Saha
_ Construction: Nasser Rahman (Client)
 
Atmosphere | An Apartment with Opulent Appeal

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Atmosphere | © Ar. Gazi Md. Fazle Rahim, Ar.Wahid Ahmed, Ar.Durdana Karim
Name: Ar. Gazi Md. Fazle Rahim Shaon, Ar.Wahid Ahmed, Ar.Durdana Karim
Year: 2017
Location: Road-7/F, House-65, Banani, Dhaka
Client: Rancon Developments Ltd.
Located in the core of Banani’s most lively residential area atmosphere is situated minutes away from a relaxing green park, shopping malls, entertainment and luxury dining. atmosphere defies the typical residential apartments of Dhaka City becoming the standard for ultra-luxury and quality living. It offers inhabitants spacious, bright and functional apartments with the most astounding materials and apparatuses.

“If I can create a space that people haven’t experienced before and if it stays with them or gives them a dream for the future, that’s the kind of structure I seek to create.”–TADAO ANDO

Designed to surpass traditional expectations, atmosphere emulates an urban contemporary feel. The double height entry from the road immediately gives a sense of majesty. The in-house lounge, located at the building’s mezzanine, allows residents a unique opportunity to expand their lifestyle and entertain guests with its coffee bar and cozy café type seating arrangement. The exclusive rooftop houses a gym, barbeque area and a 42 feet long swimming pool, all to create a sanctuary for the residents of atmosphere.

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The lofty entrance with a double heighted reception, a mezzanine lounge and a green roof canopy | Photo credit : Meer Sadi
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The grand reception | Photo credit : Meer Sadi
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The warmth of the mezzanine lounge allows the residents to relax and entertain their guests in a room full of jazz and coziness | Photo credit : Meer Sadi


CONCEPT

The idea was simple-create a residential apartment that indulges in style, sophistication, luxury and also responds to the inadequacy of open green spaces, limited daylight and ventilation that conventional multi-storied apartment buildings face. The concept of the project was the resultant of the context, Atmosphere and Luxury. To manifest an idea as such, two important features were considered: Massing of the building and single tenant for each floor.

This allowed each floor to have an open floor plan creating a grandeur space. The facade of floor to ceiling height windows on the south gives this space a panoramic view of the outdoor while inviting ample daylight and clean air circulation. Terraces in the south area reflection of our traditional courtyards interms of function. The green terraces in various levels are kept big allowing abundant light, lush landscape and thorough cross ventilation for the formal living, family living and dining space.

Adequate bends are made to the building mass to ensure an integration of indoor-outdoor. The massing was deliberate to allow daylight and clean air flood every room of each apartment-again under lining the ideology of the project.

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Photo credit : Durdana Karim
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Typical floor plan
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Paintings were hand-picked to give that extra depth to the foyer of each apartment | Photo credit : Meer Sadi
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The clear glazed panel window affords ample natural light and panoramic view of the cityscape | Photo credit : Meer Sadi


ARCHITECTURE

The building was pushed back, as far as it was feasible, towards the north to allow a large south lawn and gate way to the building. This was done taking into account the sub-tropical atmosphere of Dhaka with its winter slanted sun on the south and summer wind flow spill out of the south-east.

PROJECT TECHNOLOGY

To attain the best possible output some decisions were made through several trial and errors for example the texture of the wall, color of the doors and sustainability of the bricks etc. But the magic lies in the 10’ cantilevered terraces in the south which is a significant aspect in the design of atmosphere. This differentiates the terraces from other stereotypical terraces of residential apartments around. The residence is an earthquake resistant structure that will persist the test of time and nature.

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With the Dhaka skyline as a view, the roof-top lounge is the perfect place to have a bbq party with loved ones | Photo credit : Meer Sadi
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A private place to dive into relaxation, the rooftop swimming pool and bbq lounge offer a balanced blend of entertainment and outdoor enjoyment | Photo credit : Meer Sadi


MATERIALS

To complement the theme of luxury, special care was taken for the choice of materials used in atmosphere. The brick walls are thermally insulated to help with heat reduction and creates a place of peace for the residents. Windows were double-glazed to allow sumptuous amount of light, but to also deflect heat. Natural wood polished Italian marble provides a stage for modern living. The lounge- furnished with designer décor. Paintings, from local painters were given platforms to exhibit their creativity therefore adding a dash of color and warmth to public spaces and common areas within the apartments.

PROJECT DETAILS

Site Area: 490 sq.m

Total built-up area of the Project: 3712 sq.m

Year of Commencement: April, 2014

Year of Completion: November, 2017

PROJECT TEAM

Design and Concept: Mr. Sajid Karim

Architect: Ar. Ghazi Md. Fazle Rahim Shaon, Ar. Wahid Ahmed, Ar. Durdana Karim

Structure: Md. Sayeed Hossain

Electrical: Eng. Zakir Hossain

Interior Design: Rancon Developments-Design Studio

Landscape Design: Rancon Developments-Design Studio
 
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Coordinated Complex of Public Libraries and National Museum at Shahbag | DCON CUBE JV

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Proposed Coordinated Complex of Public Libraries and National Museum at Shahbag © DCON CUBE JV
Name: Joint venture of Cubeinside Design Ltd. and Dcon Design Studio
Year: 2017
Location: Shahbag, Dhaka
Client: Department of Public Library and Bangladesh National Museum
Following is the winning proposal for coordinated complex of Department of Public Library and Bangladesh National Museum at Shahbag, Dhaka.

Through placemaking we can collectively shape our public realm to maximize shared value. Placemaking facilitates creative patterns of activities and connections in terms of cultural, social and ecological that defines a place and supports its ongoing evolution. The main goal of the proposed design is to create a place that has both a strong sense of community and a comfortable image for all aged people, as well as a setting, activities and uses that collectively add up to something more than the sum of its often simple parts by celebrating the institution of life through democratic participation of the entire city.

When understanding the concept of ‘institution of life’, the first question that derives is ‘what does a library and a museum do?’ Such institution contributes to the society and spread the light of knowledge among people of all age. This enlighten the society through its intellectual attributes which as a whole becomes the institution of life.

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Proposed Masterplan ( at Plaza level) © DCON CUBE JV




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© DCON CUBE JV
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© DCON CUBE JV
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© DCON CUBE JV
Shahbag as a public place has historical, cultural and political significance. The national museum and public library are located at the gateway of this place. So, in the proposal, spatial democracy has been envisaged by providing easy accessibility and freedom of movement through spaces and their connections. Most importantly, the project is designed to create a multi-scalar, harmonious relationship within the site (between the library and museum buildings) , then with the local place and finally with the entire city and its people.

The existing museum stands as a monumental icon of the city as well as of the nation. While developing a vision for co-ordinated complex, the challenge was to add new built forms for public library and archival functions around the museum block without compromising the monumental nature of the project.

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© DCON CUBE JV
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© DCON CUBE JV
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Water court © DCON CUBE JV
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Water court © DCON CUBE JV


The site originally has the existing museum located at the north. The structure of the museum is kept as it is; instead the functions of the central court are being relocated to enhance the quality of space. An elongated library building has been placed at the south of the site with the ventilation and perforation to achieve maximum daylights and air in order to serve the required functions. The plaza and the open space connects to the museum that floats on a water body to which the annex building is connected. The annex building is functioning as storage facility for the complex. The idea to place the annex building to the west is to cut down the maximum heat from west. Large void has been inserted in the annex building in such a manner to ensure the north south ventilation through the void. The annex and museum has been fused with large water body and amphitheatre with a auditorium beneath.

Open spaces connecting one built form to another provide more breathing spaces and visual connectivity, hence ensure better indoor-outdoor relationship. Large slope of green has been introduced with the city face to create a smooth and flowing landscape which may serve the user for relaxing and casual gathering. Thus it offers a soft and lively urban public space.

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The central plaza © DCON CUBE JV
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© DCON CUBE JV
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Library building facing the central plaza © DCON CUBE JV
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Circular court in the central plaza © DCON CUBE JV


Plaza as a central element: A central plaza connecting the library and museum buildings holds a central court where people can gather. This is a space for celebrations where social and intellectual exchanges occur and cultures mix takes place.

Cultural corridor: This co-ordinated complex will host cultural activities that take place in this area such as Pohela boishakh, Boshonto boron, FIlm festival, Boi mela and many more. It will become the stage for celebrating urban cultural life, simultaneously perform as a focal point of the central cultural hub for the nation.

Linkage with surroundings:. The permeable edge of the complex provides visual and physical access for the pedestrian, hence encourage public interaction within the site. Its linkage with the surrounding important places such as Dhaka University Campus, Museum of independence, Bangla Academy has created an unique opportunity for the place to become an extended platform for sharing the cultural and intellectual ideas.

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Interior of the public library © DCON CUBE JV
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© DCON CUBE JV
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e-library © DCON CUBE JV
Reincarnation of the rural lifestyle: The circular court in the central plaza is a metaphor of rural gathering place surrounding a large banyan tree. Functionally this works as a place for public events and social gathering .

Interpretation of the riverine territory: The use of water in the design is to portray the riverine territory of Bangladesh which adds to the environmental value of the site. This water court serves to minimize the heat level by creating a micro-climate.

House of multi-disciplinary events: The outdoor spaces play a pivotal role in serving the locality and its people by hosting multi-events such as, exhibitions, mela, haat and other forms of cultural activities.

Layering of user realm: In the design, the ground layer is used for vehicular movement, parking and administrative offices. The pedestrian movements are in two different layers which do not allow the functions to overlap. The first floor has been dedicated to the plaza which united the built forms and transformed it into a public gathering and sharing spaces.

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Museum central lobby © DCON CUBE JV
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© DCON CUBE JV
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Museum gallery © DCON CUBE JV
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© DCON CUBE JV


Effective placemaking and identity design happens in collaboration with the people who live in, work in or use the space. At its best, it is a transformative design process that inspires people to create and improve the places where they live, work, learn, exchange, play, and gather. In conclusion, the main motto of the design is to bring people and the city under one platform to celebrate the ‘institution of life’ which is rooted in the culture and heritage of Bangladesh.

Project credit:

Design

Khandaker Ashifuzzaman, Md. Shakhawat Hossain, Arif-uz-zaman

Team leader

Abu Anas Faisal

Design Team

Md. Sharifuzzaman, Ahmed Firoz Ul Hoque, Md. Rakibul Alam

Design Associates

Onie Khandaker, Imran Hasan, Anika Tabassum, Kazi Asadullaj Al Emran, Niloy Nath, Md. Farzad Ghani Azmi, Rakesh Sharma, Usama Ibn Anwar, MH Masud, Sajjat Hossain

Visualization & Post production

Arif-uz-zaman
 
More shots for the Biman 787 testing at Paine Field in Everett, Washington.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines #B787 landing at Paine Field after a first (B1) flight to Moses Lake today.
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Parked at the Boeing flight line on June 12
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DESCO Head Office Building (DESCO is the electrical distribution utility in Dhaka). DESCO have embarked on a project to build their new HQ outside of Dhaka's downtown areas.

Winning entry of the first phase of the two staged design competition arranged by IAB and DESCO for designing the head office building of DESCO. It was a two-staged open design competition where, Cubeinside in association with Shatotto was selected for the 2nd stage. Total 6 nos of entries were selected for the second stage. Site : Nikunja, Khilkhet, Dhaka Land area : 28980 sft or 40 Katha Total Built area: 258955 sft

Computer renders provided as construction has started on the project and not completed yet.

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Efforts to raise urban greenery-spots in Dhaka parks through landscaping improvements. The movement (Jol-Shobujey Dhaka or Moist-Green Dhaka) is an architect-led partnership with Dhaka North and South Mayor's offices to improve trashy neighborhoods or abandoned govt. land into green spaces.

Kudos and hats-off for visualizing this at least. Great effort by Dhaka mayors for this tasteful drive to improve parks, green spaces as well as reflecting shallow pools for Dhaka-dwellers.

Sorry Bengali only...


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DSCC to spruce up 19 parks, 12 playgrounds



Helemul Alam

In the overcrowded Dhaka city, where free space is a blessing, 19 parks and 12 playgrounds will be spruced up to give children a place to run around and adults a retreat to relax.

Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) has taken up the task as part of a Tk 1,202 crore project for development of roads, footpath, slaughterhouses, and other facilities in its area.

A total of Tk 76 crore will be spent on the parks and Tk 15 crore on the playgrounds, said officials.

Chief Engineer of DSCC Md Nurullah said they would appoint consultants to prepare designs of how the parks and playgrounds would look like after completion of the project. The consultants will take eight to nine months to finish their works, while the project is scheduled to be completed by 2018, he said.

DSCC will develop more parks, if necessary, he added.

During an investigation last year, The Daily Star found that at least 10 parks out of the 54 surviving ones in the entire Dhaka city were replaced with a community centre, a kitchen market, a mosque, a rickshaw garage or a truck parking lot, mostly by the city corporation itself, while some others were threatened.

According to experts, 93 parks are necessary in Dhaka city, one for each of the 93 wards. Before the city was split into two parts in 2011, DCC had 54 parks on its official list.


Urban expert Prof Nazrul Islam says every 10,000 city residents need an open space of four acres -- park or playground -- for healthy growth of children and prevention of diseases related to physical activities.

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