Accommodation and Lodging Facility | Riverston

SLIIT

Project idea

INTRODUCTION

Architectural solutions in environmentally sensitive areas must address both global concerns such as climate change and local issues including community livelihood. It is crucial to cater to diverse stakeholders such as authorities, researchers, residents, and tourists to enhance the sustainability of these projects. This proposal aims to integrate the natural and built environments harmoniously, prioritizing minimal environmental impact within a sensitive context.

ABOUT THE AREA

Knuckles Conservation Forest, a pristine montane forest in Sri Lanka's central highlands, is renowned for its distinctive biodiversity and ecological importance. It houses a range of endemic and endangered wildlife and flora, featuring lush montane forests, open grasslands, streams, and waterfalls, earning it the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Situated about 3000 feet above sea level, Riverton is part of the Knuckles Conservation Forest. Spanning 18,500 hectares across the Kandy and Matale districts, this densely forested area includes 34 peaks, crucial watersheds, and a high level of biodiversity. The area also holds cultural significance, with several villages containing historical and archaeological sites shaped by traditional land-use practices over centuries.

Project description

DESIGN APPROACH

|Problem Identification|

The deep connection between local communities and the forest, developed over centuries, has been disrupted by modern environmental and social challenges. Historically, these communities lived in harmony with nature, with their lifestyles and cultural practices closely tied to the forest, fostering a sense of belonging.
However, the establishment of the Knuckles Conservation Forest has severed this bond, leaving villagers feeling alienated from their environment. This disconnection has led to a decline in their vibrant culture and identity, and a growing insensitivity towards the environment. While conservation forests are essential for protecting biodiversity, it is crucial to consider the social and cultural impacts on local communities. Balancing conservation goals with the needs of these communities is key to sustainable and inclusive conservation efforts.

|Solution|

The solution involves creating an interface for people to reconnect with their environment, fostering a sense of belonging. Integrating an educational component into the visitor experience can enhance understanding of the local communities and their intricate ties with the environment. During their stay, guests will be immersed in narratives and experiences that highlight historical coexistence, culture, and sustainable lifestyles, fostering a deep connection between visitors and the environment.
One way to bridge the gap between the Knuckles Conservation Forest and local villagers is by incorporating the unique Dumbara Kalala art, a traditional mat-making craft of the region. By featuring Dumbara Kalala in the visitor experience, the initiative aims to educate about the intertwined relationship between the communities and the environment. This hands-on connection to the region's cultural heritage will bring recognition to the fading art form, making the project socially and environmentally responsive.

IMPLEMENTATION

To bridge the gap between the Knuckles Conservation Forest and local villagers, the proposal includes integrating Dumbara Kalala art into the visitor experience. This traditional mat-making craft, known as Dumbara mats, has a rich cultural heritage. Crafted in the villages of Kalasirigama and Alokagama by the Kinnara community, these mats were historically made by many villages within the forest.
The process of crafting Dumbara mats involves using fibers from the Hana plant, including steps like separating fibers, washing, sun-drying, combing, and dyeing with herbal dyes from native Dumbara valley materials. Notably, this craft practices sustainable methods that have no adverse effects on nature. Beyond their functional and aesthetic value, Dumbara mats hold immense cultural significance for Sri Lankans, representing respect and appreciation for nature. Recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, Dumbara Kalala art is a testament to the sustainable and cultural heritage of the region.

DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

The primary inspiration for this project stems from the surrounding context. The central concept for the building revolves around incorporating clean, sharp lines to offer a sense of structure and coherence amidst the organic disorder of the environment. This approach aims to create a visually harmonious composition. The building is envisioned as a guiding element, leading visitors through the natural surroundings while instilling a feeling of restraint, emphasizing the importance of nature conservation. Within the design, ample space will be dedicated to allowing nature to thrive, establishing a seamless connection between the nature and its users.
Due to the dense tree growth on the site, the design must carefully accommodate the existing trees, many of which are endemic or rare species. It is essential to adhere to a design philosophy that ensures no harm comes to any plants during the process. The placement of existing trees significantly influenced the design decisions.
I strongly believe that any design undertaken in a particular area should serve the needs of its users, as well as reflect the culture and support the local community. With this in mind, I envision this space as a gathering place for the local communities of Dumbara Kalala artisans. It will serve as a socioeconomic hub, focusing on promoting this craft and empowering the local communities by providing recognition and support.
The goal is to instill in users the understanding that conservation is not solely the responsibility of government entities or external organizations. Rather, it should stem from within our own minds—we each have a role to play in conservation efforts. Furthermore, conservation does not necessitate detachment from nature; instead, it involves coexisting with nature in a sustainable manner. This approach ensures the well-being of both human beings and the environment, allowing for a harmonious and enduring relationship between the two.

Technical information

ENVIRONMENTAL APPROACH

|Passive Energy Utilization|

The design prioritizes passive energy sources to create comfort for users inside the building. The building is strategically designed to optimize natural light penetration into interior spaces. Manually operable louver windows are strategically located throughout the building to facilitate airflow. The grid structure promotes natural ventilation, with numerous open spaces allowing for cross ventilation and passive airflow. The louver window panels can be used to regulate the solar gain and wind gain to suit individual’s preference.it will also add a dynamic nature to the facade forming different patterns

Flat roofs in the design incorporate solar panels to generate electricity, utilizing otherwise unused space and reducing reliance on traditional energy sources. This placement minimizes visual impact and maximizes sun exposure for efficient energy production. Pathways are illuminated at night by solar and wind-powered streetlights with small wind propellers, enhancing sustainability and adding a unique visual element to the environment.

|Wastewater Management|

Given the high groundwater table and the sensitive nature of the site, traditional sewer disposal methods like septic tanks and soakage pits are not feasible options. Instead, a biodigester septic tank system is proposed. The clean water produced from this filtration process will be utilized for both flushing and irrigation purposes. By repurposing the treated water in this manner, the project maximizes resource efficiency and reduces reliance on external water sources.

Documentation

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