A Vernacular Architectural Learning Centre, Sundarban, Sadar Dinajpur,Bangladesh

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

Project 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.

Project description

PROJECT ABSTRACT:

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 recognized the need for sustainable architectural solutions tailored to the local context of Dinajpur. “The Vernacular Architectural Learning Centre” is designed to fulfil this vision. The project is conceptualized 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 center. 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.



CHALLENGES ASPECT:
SAFE NGO has been working on this site for over a decade, and they realized 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 center. 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.


SITE LOCATION:
LOCATION
Sundarban Village, PO: Ramdubihat, Upuzaila: Sadar Dinajpur, Bangladesh, Dinajpur, Bangladesh


SWOT Analysis:
Strength
• The site location is Visible and easily accessible from main road.
• The site is free from noise pollution
• The raised land is surrounded by free lands so if need future extend, it would be easy.
Weakness
• The hot-dry climate of the area can make it difficult for the people from other areas to cope up with.
• Secondary Road Wide Is 20 ft,it Should Be 30-40 Ft For Big Truck Movement
Opportunity
• Good place to explore materials since there are a lot of bamboo trees around.
• Many local people are involved in the building procedure may help the initial progress of the complex.
• The raised land is surrounded by free lands which can be used to extend in future.
• Can make a landmark for the place
Threats
• Local environment can be harmed with excess use of local materials and natural resources.
• The price of local materials may drive up because of emerging demand.
• Nature can get harmed for using local materials.


PROGRAMME:
1. Office & Lab: Office Space Used for Work, Share Document & Test, experiment.
2. Education & Workshop: Classes, Study, & Real Scale Model Making.
3. Library: study purpose, materials and general study
4. Dormitory: Sleep, Rest, Eat, Cook
5. Common space: Exhibition, Interaction, Sharing, Program, Seminar, Workshop, Food Service, Prayer Space, Shop
6. Treatment plant: bamboo treatment and earth treatment
7. Nursery: Bamboo nursery


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.


BAMBOO TREATMENT PLANT:
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.

BAMBOO TREATMENT CYCLE:
1. Bamboo reception and preliminary inspection
2. Individual quality control
3. Cutting station / Cleaning station
4. Drilling station
5. Seasoning & Drying
6. Treatment tanks
7. Vertical drying racks
8. Horizontal drying racks
9. Storage and Loading for dissemination to distribution points



EARTH TREATMENT PLANT:
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.
FOCUS ON:
1. Rammed Earth
2. Adobe Or Sun-Dried Brick
3. Wattle And Daub Method


WORK STATION (REAL MODEL) AND CLASS ROOM:
This learning centre will provide opportunities for hands-on experience and teach techniques for honing the beauty of vernacular practices through the Build & Design Course. It will offer 14 days of separate Bamboo and Earth courses and a combined Bamboo-Earth course spanning 21 days. Training will be provided for local masons, architects, national and international students and researchers.
The learning centre is designed with spaces that can accommodate the activities of the courses. Emphasis was given to creating an open learning centre that is integrated with nature and protects natural resources.
• Bamboo-Earth course (21 days)
1st Day-------------------Office Activity & The Story of Indigenous Materials
2nd To 4th Day----------Bamboo Harvesting & Treatment
5th to 6th --------------------Bamboo Carpentry.
7th To 8th Day------------Mud treatment and Mud technique.
9th To 10th Day ------------Mud block and sun-dried brick.
11th to 12th Day-----------------------Our Bamboo & Mud World (Dipshikha Campus and Jagan Babur Math.
12th To 14th Day--------Built with Earth (full Scale Construction-wattle and daub
method, rammed earth, sun dried brick)
15th -------------------Downtimes (Kantajir Temple,ramsagar,sundarban Village)
16th to 18th --------Built with Bamboo (full Scale Bamboo Construction)
19th to 20th day ---Built with composite materials (Earth, Bamboo, Wood, steel)
21 day----------------Certificate Giving

• Bamboo course (14 days)
1st Day-------------------Office Activity & The Story of Indigenous Materials
2nd To 4th Day----------Harvesting & Treatment
5th To 6th Day------------Our Bamboo World (Dipshikha Campus and Jagan Babur Math)
7th To 8th Day ------------Bamboo Carpentry.
9th Day-----------------------Downtimes (Kantajir Temple, ramsagar,sundarban Village)
10th To 13th Day--------Built with Bamboo (full Scale Bamboo Construction)
14th Day--------------------Certificate Giving
• Earth course (14 days)
1st Day-------------------Office Activity & The Story of Indigenous Materials
2nd To 4th Day----------Mud treatment and Mud technique.
5th To 6th Day------------Our Mud World (Dipshikha Campus and Jagan Babur Math)
7th To 8th Day ------------Mud block and sun-dried brick.
9th Day-----------------------Downtimes (Kantajir Temple, ramsagar,sundarban Village)
10th To 13th Day--------Built with Earth (full Scale Construction-wattle and daub method, rammed earth, sun dried brick)
14th Day--------------------Certificate Giving

COMMON SPACE:
Multipurpose hall:
The multipurpose hall is designed to be a place that can be used by local people, they can share their Own creativity. For villagers, it works as an awareness centre.
Exhibition space:
In the exhibition space, villagers can display various products. Students can exhibit their works here. There are two types of exhibition space, one is the indoor exhibition another is the open exhibition. The open exhibition is used for scaled model display.

OFFICE AND LAB:
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 image below visualises the entrance of the institute.


DORMITORY:

Dormitory: Sleep, Rest, Eat, Cook.
Dormitory users:
• Local and international students.
• Guest
Bangladeshi rural housing layout influenced the dormitory's shape. This structure embodies the beauty of living around a courtyard, surrounded by nature overlooking the pond. The walls use rammed earth construction techniques, and the roof uses sand cement tiles.


NURSERY

• Bamboo nursery
In Bangladesh, several bamboo species are prized for their strength and cultivated in villages.
These Include Borak(large/Small), baijja, muti, muli(large/Small), ora, dola, talla, pencha, mitinga(Mita). This nursery will sell different species of bamboo. This research lab is also for local farmers to explore and discover bamboo growth opportunities in limited land

BEAUTY OF THIS PROJECT:

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

Through my project, the Vernacular Architectural Learning Centre in Sundarban, Sadar Dinajpur, I have introduced several innovations that merge traditional construction techniques with modern technological advancements to address contemporary environmental and social challenges. Key innovations and themes include:

Dynamic, Flexible Building Designs: Utilizing exterior diagonal bracing structures with nutt and bolt joints, the design allows for easy modifications by locals. This flexibility facilitates adaptive use of local materials and quick adjustments to meet changing needs.

Hybrid Construction Techniques: By combining local materials with techniques such as bamboo-steel joints and rammed earth, the project addresses climate and ecological concerns. These methods promote sustainability, reduce carbon footprints, and provide eco-friendly solutions to pollution, aligning with the goal of a carbon-less world.

Revitalization of Traditional Crafts: Showcasing villagers' innovative approaches, the project blends modern techniques with traditional methods to create earth walls, earth blocks, and bamboo houses, reflecting both heritage and contemporary ingenuity. This integration emphasizes sustainability and cultural preservation.

Technological Advancements: Creating distinct spaces for traditional techniques, including earth walls, bamboo treatment, and adobe, the project includes buffalo-mud mixing areas, bamboo cutting and treatment racks, and a classroom for hands-on model making. This setup fosters an educational environment integrating indigenous materials with modern architecture.

Sustainable Practices: Focusing on bamboo techniques and establishing a bamboo treatment plant, the project promotes the conservation, reinterpretation, and reuse of local materials. This initiative aims to preserve traditional craftsmanship and promote eco-friendly building practices for a sustainable future.

Durability and Resilience: Tailoring construction technologies to the rapidly growing village, the project creates long-lasting bamboo and mud houses. Addressing durability concerns ensures resilient housing solutions that meet the community's evolving needs.

Larger Theme: The project seamlessly integrates sustainability, cultural preservation, and technological advancement, addressing environmental challenges while fostering community and cultural continuity. This holistic approach promotes a low-carbon, environmentally conscious future while preserving Dinajpur's rich cultural heritage.

In the context of my project, the Vernacular Architectural Learning Centre in Sundarban, Sadar Dinajpur, technology is interpreted as a multifaceted tool that enhances traditional construction methods and addresses contemporary challenges. It plays an integral role in the design process, execution, and spatial experience, driving innovation in several key ways.

Design Process: Technology is leveraged to create dynamic, flexible buildings incorporating exterior diagonal bracing structures with nutt and bolt joints. This design ensures that structures can be easily modified by locals with basic construction knowledge, allowing adaptive use of local materials and swift adjustments to meet changing needs and preferences.

Execution: During execution, the project employs hybrid construction techniques such as bamboo-steel joints and rammed earth. These methods are chosen for their sustainability, ability to reduce carbon footprints, and provision of eco-friendly solutions to pollution. Integrating these techniques ensures that the construction process aligns with our goal of a carbon-less world.

Spatial Experience: Technology enhances the spatial experience by incorporating vernacular technological advancements into distinct spaces for traditional construction techniques. For example, areas dedicated to buffalo-mud mixing with straw, bamboo cutting and treatment with drying racks, and hands-on model making on bamboo and mud create an interactive learning environment. These spaces emphasize the integration of indigenous materials and methods within modern architectural practices.

Innovation Through Technology: Technology drives innovation by revitalizing traditional crafts through the blending of modern and traditional techniques. This results in structures like earth walls, earth blocks, and bamboo houses that reflect both heritage and contemporary ingenuity. Establishing a bamboo treatment plant and using bamboo treated with boric acid highlight technological interventions that promote durability and resilience. These measures address climate change by focusing on zero-carbon houses, enhancing environmental benefits, and supporting climate resilience.

Overall, technology in this project bridges the past and the future, ensuring the preservation of traditional knowledge while meeting modern environmental and social needs. It underscores the seamless integration of sustainability, cultural preservation, and technological advancement in vernacular architecture.