A Vernacular Architectural Learning Centre,Sundarban, Sadar Dinajpur

Dhaka University of Engineering & Technology, Gazipur, Department of Architecture, Dhaka

Project idea

IDEA: To create an open learning space for sharing knowledge and developing vernacular construction techniques


The project aims to design a space that can inspire conservation of vernacular knowledge and provide opportunities for developing vernacular construction techniques. Spaces in this learning centre are designed to inspire Researchers, Architects, Students and Local people to work together and learn from each other. The emphasis was given on creating an open learning centre that is integrated with nature and ensures protection of natural resources.

Challenges Aspect:
SAFE NGO has been working on this site for over a decade, and they realised early on that conserving vernacular wisdom is necessary to make the shelters disaster risk resilient. The form of vernacular architecture is often humble, yet it possesses an inherent charm and authenticity that is difficult to replicate. This project's challenge was to capture this region's aesthetic architectural traits and replicate them in the designed learning centre. The designed spaces had to stem from their humble roots yet achieve grandness to showcase the versatility of vernacular techniques. The site area constraint also posed unique challenges. Different types of activities demanded different forms to be explored, and some aesthetic demand in the masterplan scale was compromised to make room for functional demand.

Project description

Vernacular architecture holds a unique and captivating beauty that emerges from its deep connection to local cultures, landscapes, and traditions. Dinajpur district is situated in the north of Bangladesh. To find comfort in the scorching heat and cold weather, people built their houses with mud and bamboo. But as modern materials crowd the marketplaces, people started to lose connection with their roots and abandon their ancestral homes. But their modern homes do not provide thermal comfort, nor does it provide spaces necessary for their cultural practices and social cohesion.
In response to the escalating global environmental challenges, SAFE NGO recognised the need for sustainable architectural solutions tailored to the local context of Dinajpur. “The Vernacular Architectural Learning Centre-Carbon Reduce Hub” is designed to fulfil this vision. The project is conceptualised as a catalyst for change that will help foster a deep understanding of vernacular architecture in Dinajpur, Bangladesh.
The project aims to design a space that can inspire the conservation of vernacular knowledge and provide opportunities for developing vernacular construction techniques. Spaces are designed to inspire researchers, architects, students and local people to work together and learn from each other. The designer had to compromise the aesthetic of the masterplan to showcase the versatility of vernacular construction techniques. The emphasis was given to exploring vernacular aesthetics in different areas of this open learning centre. This initiative strives to empower individuals and guide them towards a low-carbon and environmentally conscious future through its comprehensive educational programs, practical demonstrations, and community engagement.

#MASTER PLAN :
The Masterplan development followed the steps of rural home construction. Earth was excavated from the site to form a beautiful pond and to collect materials for building the structures. Different forms were placed around the pond respecting the existing landscape.

The masterplan reflects the beauty of a Bangladeshi rural homestead. It recreates the magic of living in nature, embracing natural elements and connecting with our roots. Inspired by the local culture of using open-to-sky courtyards for daily tasks, the structures are placed to form internal courtyards where different activities can occur.

The vernacular aesthetic was sought in this project. The designer found it in the inclusion of diverse shapes, local materials, natural colour palettes, contrasting volumes, introverted spaces, retaining natural landscape patterns, and in the scope for cultural practice and social bonding.

This masterplan’s aesthetic is representing a community's identity, traditions, and values. Each structure tells a story, carrying the collective memories and aspirations of the people who built them. It captures the essence of a place and its people, providing a glimpse into the rich tapestry of human creativity and adaptation.


The beauty of this project stems from the wisdom, ingenuity, and craftsmanship of generations past. The conscious pursuit of vernacular aesthetics was present from its inception to execution. The contrasting shape of structures demand attention and create visual tension. Yet their bold presence represents the honesty of vernacular knowledge. The vernacular aesthetic thrives in its simplicity. However, these structures and spaces within them are designed to provide unique experiences with vernacular materials. The construction is complicated, spaces are diverse and use promise a better and sustainable future. The most arduous negotiation occurred when all the unique shapes demanded their spaces in the masterplan, and the overall aesthetic in the Bird’s eye view was compromised. But this space is not to be viewed from above. This will be experienced by local people, students, researchers and architects. The beauty lies in its symbiotic relationship with nature, its seamless integration into the landscape, its cultural significance, and its sustainable design principles.

Technical information

The semi-circular structures represent the aesthetic sculptural quality of earth construction. These unique forms represent the opportunity of exploring vernacular material using modern forms.

The earth treatment plant is a combination of interesting spaces. It is designed to be semi-circular, similar to the office and classrooms. It has spaces for exploring rammed-earth techniques. The circular shading protects the mixing station where buffaloes mix cement, mud, straw, and sand. The structure also provides drying and storage spaces for sundried bricks. Students and researchers can also explore wattle and daub techniques here. This treatment plant is a space to learn about the beauty and strength of the natural materials.

The functional demand of the bamboo treatment plant required a rectangular layout. The roof is a superstructure made of Bamboo that represents the potential of bamboo as a structural material. The structure is designed to be a landmark facility. In addition to training, this treatment plant will meet the local needs of treated bamboo and contribute to local economy. Muli (Non-structural bamboo) and Borak (Structural Bamboo) will be treated here.