COMMUNITY FUSION : A Holistic Approach to Neighborhood Integration & Contemporary Living

BRAC University, Department of Architecture, Dhaka

Project idea

Site : Banani, Kamal Ataturk Ave, Dhaka ( Bangladesh Bank Officer's Quarter)
Area : 3.7 acres
Type : Mixed-Use Housing Complex - Community Fusion Initiative
Studio Mentor: Mohammad Habib Reza , Tanjina Khan , Tasfin Aziz

In response to the urban and economic challenges prevalent in Banani, characterized by escalating rent and economic disparity leading to population influx, the project proposes a holistic approach to serve the community . Strategies are formulated to address these issues, focusing on socio-economic participation, equal opportunities and communal integration. The masterplan encompasses public recreation spaces, a commercial hub and cultural amenities alongside affordable housing, promoting contemporary living. This complex aims to foster socio-economic fusion and creating a hub for communal engagement by taking decisions from the contextual analysis , following the principles of ‘New-Contextualism’ .

Project description

The Mixed-Use Housing Complex envisions a transformative paradigm in contemporary living, addressing urban challenges through a lens of community fusion and holistic neighborhood integration. Nestled in the economic growth hub of Banani, escalating land prices, economic disparities and issues have sparked the need for innovative solutions. The strategies are suggested to tackle these issues by proposing affordable housing options, ensuring socio-economic participation, equal opportunities and promoting communal integration.

The proposed masterplan, a reflection of community-centric design, weaves together various public recreation spaces, a commercial hub and cultural amenities seamlessly integrated with residential zones. This holistic approach not only caters to the housing needs but also envisions a vibrant and cohesive neighborhood.

The housing complex caters to both private middle-income residents and Bangladesh Bank government officers, fostering a harmonious coexistence that transcends economic boundaries. The podium level becomes a nexus for socio-economic fusion, incorporating civic amenities for the entire neighborhood.

The architectural form is meticulously crafted, responsive to the site's dynamics, maximizing ground area for public plazas and communal spaces. At the ground level, residents and visitors encounter a rich array of facilities, including a mosque, indoor games, an open trade fair, retail spaces and restaurants. A sunken court in the basement further amplifies community engagement, hosting an open food village. Upper podium levels present amenities such as a library, multipurpose hall, craft school, salon, mall, exhibition space, workshop, gym and daycare. The housing complex offers six distinct unit types, catering to diverse needs and pay scales, ensuring inclusivity in this contemporary and vibrant community living endeavor.

Technical information

Housing Complex utilizes concrete for structural stability while incorporating wooden louvres to manage sunlight, balancing aesthetics and functionality. The architectural form is designed with folds and subtractions to ensure natural ventilation throughout the complex, reducing the need for mechanical systems. Green roofs enhance sustainability by providing insulation, managing stormwater and promoting biodiversity. This integration of materials and design principles underscores the project's commitment to a harmonious blend of contemporary living and environmental responsibility.