An Archaeological Museum Complex: Framing the Buddhist Remains of Mainamati

Idea projektu

Archaeological museums are essential to preserving a country's rich history and cultural heritage. Archaeologists' discoveries of Buddhist remains at Mainamati have made the site more well-known in recent years. However, many of these artefacts will likely be lost or destroyed due to insufficient preservation and conservation efforts. This project proposes to preserve the archaeological remains in a museum complex and enlighten the people about the history of Bengal. Since the intended location is the hub of all other excavated viharas, this project will represent the country's cultural and historical significance, fostering a sense of place and identity and considering the long-term preservation of the artefacts in a museum complex with Preventive Conservation Approach by following the Heritage Laws as conceptual framework. By considering the sustainability aspects, the main concept of this design is followed by Le Corbusier’s Regulatory line, which uses proportions of geometry in buildings giving its harmony and order.

Popis projektu

With a rich heritage dating back to ancient times, Mainamati has played a significant role in shaping the region's history. The obligation of reimaging the archaeological museum is essential as this region's rich architectural and cultural heritage is struggling to continue its existence in the rapidly developing Bangladesh. Architectural structures have historically served to preserve information and unfold narratives, creating a sequence of experiences as one moves through them. Shalban Bihar, with its Buddhist architecture, effectively embodies culture, regionalism, and tradition, bridging stories from the past with the present and future. These architectural storytellers connect with broader cultural narratives, celebrated in the project’s spatial design. As a heritage site, it functions as a knowledge hub, and the museum is thoughtfully designed to offer a space for experiencing history and culture. The Buddhist Bihar architecture is symbolized in the form of a museum, in which it aims to address the absence of shrines caused by rapid urbanization. This museum features a void space in the center to fill the absence. The ramp circulation around the Buddha statue is designed to reflect the Pradakhshina Path. Similar to how a monument connects us to past cultures, this proposed museum serves a similar purpose by incorporating a public plaza that encourages openness, inviting people to enter. This openness facilitates gathering spaces, echoing the same essence of Shalban Bihar. The design remains people-centric, ensuring there is ample space for visitors to pause and reflect on the architectural story conveyed by the form and space. The design remains people-centric, ensuring there is ample space for visitors to pause and reflect on the architectural story conveyed by the form and space.

Technické informace

The underground structure is created with columns and shear walls. The wall is coated with waterproof material. Drain tile is used on the floor to prevent from overflow of water during rainy season.