NEXUS CITYSCAPE: A vibrant urban hub with cohesive community integration and seamlessly connected with revived nature

BRAC University, Department of Architecture, Dhaka

Project idea

Site : Banani, Kamal Ataturk Avenue, Dhaka
Area : 14.5 acres
Type : Urban Housing complex (Mixed-use)
Mentor: Mohammad Habib Reza
Through addressing a comprehensive range of issues across ten typologies: Social, Ecological, Cultural, Historical, Economic, Political, Scientific, Geographical, Urban, and Architectural; this design aims to redefine the cityscape by integrating housing and urban amenities in a way that promotes pedestrian-friendly connectivity and embraces the philosophy of harmonious coexistence. This concept aims to create a vibrant and sustainable urban hub where residents can live, work, and access essential services within a 15-minute stroll. The design seamlessly integrates public recreation areas, a vibrant commercial hub, and rich cultural amenities with affordable housing, fostering a contemporary and progressive lifestyle in the philosophy of "New Contextualism."

Project description

The project solution encompasses comprehensive architectural and urban strategies aimed at transforming Banani into a vibrant and sustainable hub. Key components include integrating a seamless water transport route to honor Dhaka's historical waterways, adopting an ideal land use pattern, establishing pedestrian linkages to promote walkability, increasing green spaces to enhance air quality and create breathable pauses, and designing vehicular connections and crossings for smooth traffic flow. A landmark creation will serve as a focal point for the neighborhood. Diverse amenities such as schools, healthcare facilities, places of worship, libraries, food courts, sports complexes, entertainment centers, cultural centers, and community centers will cater to the community's needs in line with local and global laws. Architectural and urban design elements will respond to the physical, cultural, and historical context, incorporating green terraces, vertical gardens, and sustainable building practices to promote environmental responsibility. The project also emphasizes community and social cohesion through inclusive design, shared amenities, and cultural heritage celebration. The phased development approach, modular design, and local sourcing will ensure efficient implementation, while flexible spaces and resilient landscaping will support long-term adaptability and sustainability. This holistic approach aims to create an inclusive, eco-conscious urban environment that meets the needs of current and future generations.

Through innovative design techniques, the conventional box-like form undergoes a transformative deconstruction, yielding a dynamic structure that enhances spatial openness by maximizing the interplay between surface and volume. One pivotal design decision focuses on the intricate interplay of paths and journeys, fostering a narrative of exploration and discovery within the architectural landscape. Embracing the concept of fluid movement, the design intricately weaves a network of pathways that meander through the space, inviting inhabitants to embark on a journey of exploration and connection. These pathways not only serve as conduits for physical movement but also as conduits for social interaction and communal engagement.

Moreover, the design emphasizes the amalgamation of diverse and unique communal spaces, each offering its own distinct ambiance and character. From vibrant gathering hubs infused with natural light to tranquil retreats nestled amidst lush greenery, every communal space is meticulously crafted to cater to the multifaceted needs and desires of its occupants. By seamlessly integrating these spaces into the fabric of the design, the architecture fosters a sense of inclusivity and belonging, inviting individuals from all walks of life to come together and forge meaningful connections.

In essence, through its thoughtful consideration of paths and journeys and its harmonious amalgamation of diverse communal spaces, the design transcends the boundaries of conventional architecture, creating an immersive and enriching environment that celebrates the essence of community and collective experience.

Technical information

The Urban Housing complex employs concrete and brick for robust structural integrity. To effectively control climatic challenges perforated screens are integrated which results in diffused sunlight and also adds to the aesthetic of the design in a contextual manner. Modern V columns of metal add both support and visual appeal. Green roofs offer benefits such as improved insulation, stormwater management, biodiversity promotion, air quality improvement, urban heat island mitigation, noise reduction, extended roof lifespan, aesthetic enhancement, community benefits, and environmental sustainability. To ensure universal accessibility, the complex includes spiral staircases, escalators, lifts, and ramps. This cohesive integration of materials and design elements ensures the project's ability to merge community cohesion and environmental consciousness.