Louis I. Kahn
Issue 01 | Vol. 01 | Dhaka, September 2015
Inaugural Issue
Editorial Panel Mustasim M Khan Shahzia Islam Anton Rezaur Rahman M A Kayesh Tanim Nur Safa Julhaj Editor Mustapha Khalid Palash Sub Editor Shazedul Islam Shuvro Editorial Assistants Asif Salman Khan Noirit Mustapha
Liaison S M Al Mahmud Commercial Opera�on Zabedur Rahman Niamul Anam Shobuj Circula�on Shahinur Rahman
Cover: Radisson BLU Atrium, Photo: MKP
Published by
Shahzia Islam Anton on behalf of
Quarterly
DOT
is a journal on art and architecture of Bangladesh Published by DELVISTAA Foundation, Bangladesh Printed at Ad Printing & Packaging, Dhaka
/dot.delvistaa
TAKA 200.00
Apt. B1/D1, First Floor, Delvistaa Ruparup SE(H)6, Road 143, Gulshan Model Town Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh Phone: +880 2 9894909, 8984466, 9894983, +8801790449944 Fax: +880 2 9888948 E-mail: dot@delvistaa.com url: h�p://www.delvistaa.com/dot.html Orange Nebula
“Our posturing, our imagined self-importance, the delusion that we have some privileged position in the Universe, are challenged by this point of pale light. Our planet is a lonely speck in the great enveloping cosmic dark. In our obscurity, in all this vastness, there is no hint that help will come from elsewhere to save us from ourselves.” ---Carl Sagan
EDITOR’s note Indeed - Carl Sagan denotes earth as a ‘Pale Blue Dot’ in the universe and hints his concern that we won’t get any help from outside to save us from ourselves. Such an expression connotes great frustra�on where we are being con�neously self-destruc�ve; either it is in the name of modernity or in the name of saving the humanity. Being poised as a ‘Pale Blue Dot’ in the universe, the ques�on remains, what is the actual size of the dot? The answer perhaps lies in the theory of rela�vity that fosters the no�on that the “Measurements of various quantities are relative to the velocities of observers. In particular, space contracts and time dilates”.
Such basic phenomenon, as a general being, we seldom think of; obviously there is no deep reason for which we the general people should think of such cri�cal and fundamental facts since we know these fundamental thoughts would not impact our daily life. However, there are few who are con�nuingly processing their intellects on such fundamental facts. They are pushing their thoughts beyond the limit in search of the crea�on of the whole universe. Standing billions of years apart from its genesis in a remote loca�on on a �ny ‘Pale Blue Dot’, such thoughts seem fanciful. Evolving through the �me-process, we consider ourselves as the best creatures that invent as well as destroy for our own sake. Some of such destruc�ons are apparently not perceivable within the short span of our lives but surely have a nega�ve impact in the longer version considering the Space and Time together in rela�on to each other. Human as tropical being does not require what we consider necessary and constantly making the earth unnatural. Some of such makings are physical or temporal and some are chemical or permanent. If we believe in the theory of Big Bang that had happened in 10 -43 seconds, the smallest unit of �me, then as per theory of rela�vity, all we are observing in the universe are dots in rela�on to each other. Even if we break apart everything to its minimal unit it would be no less than dots. Dot, being the absolute substance, has the greatest degree of perseverance in the universe and in our lives. Therefore, the name of the quarterly journal has been fixed as DOT to reiterate the importance of the smallest unit that composes everything.
The prac�ce by local architects dates back to early 60s of last century and started its journey holding the hands of great Master Architect Mazharul Islam. In course of �me the local architects proved their worth in delivering any sorts of architecture the na�on requires. The local architecture educa�on has crossed its 50 years producing a plethora of qualified architects. Since early 90s the architectural schools have shown a significant rise in number but surely have lacked cross-benefits from each other. The missing instruments of such cross-benefits are always felt by the prac�cing architects and students. One such tool which helps the architects and students is a journal which would embody the works of different sec�ons and would allow it to get acquainted with the overall milieu of architecture prac�ce of the country. Realizing this necessity, Delvistaa Founda�on has come forward with a noble venture of launching a professional journal mainly focusing on Architecture and Art, which is des�ned to be a quarterly magazine �tled DOT: journal on Art & Architecture. The primary aim of the journal is to highlight the Architecture of Bangladesh and document the same. Environment, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture and contemporary Visual Art of Bangladesh will also play pivotal roles. On behalf of Delvistaa Founda�on, I do solemnly extend my gra�tude to the patrons without whose support this historical ini�a�ve would have remained unfulfilled. We look forward to a sustained publica�on of DOT on regular basis. Ar. Mustapha Khalid PALASH Editor
FIAB, Int. Assoc. AIA Member, Tall Building Council [CTBUH]
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LIFT AND ESCALATOR COMPANY
Sole Distributor in Bangladesh since 1982
CREATIVE ENGINEERS LTD. Amin Court (1st Floor), 62-63 Motijheel C/A, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh Tel: +88 02 9561926 & 9585736-7 Fax: +88 02 9561927 Email: marketing@cel.com.bd
COHESIVE WITH NATURE
content
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Renovation & Extension of Taqwa Mosque
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THE LIBERATION WAR MUSEUM
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REVEALING THE INTROVERT
GULSHAN CLUB PROPOSAL
39 43
NIMTALI DEURI REVITALIZED
COLLOQUIAL
52
Early Life Professor Shamsul Wares
REMINISCENCE OF RIVER
63
Sagor Residence at Dhaka
ACADEMIC PROJECTS
Café Mango @ Dhaka
coverstory
Shafiqul Alam Kiron HOPE THROUGH LENSES
48
GOVINDA GUNALANKER HOSTEL
TO PROTECT & TO SERVE
58
National Crime Control & Operations Monitoring Centre
An Alluvial Soul
67
83
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PRESENCE OF ABSENCE
Radisson Chittagong Bay View Hotel
NATURE REDEFINED
Peda Ting Ting @ Dhaka
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Towfiqur Rahman:
LIFE, ART, PROCESS 05
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RENOVATION
Consultant: VITTI STHAPATI BRINDO LTD. VITTI is one of the most renowned architectural firms in Bangladesh, notable for their remarkable achievement through urban development project of Ha�rjheel as well as many exemplary projects in High rise Residen�al & Commercial facili�es, Ins�tu�on, Museum & Building Conserva�on, Environmental,Monument and Interior Design. The Atelier evolved in 1991 as a design studio under the very guidance of Master Architect of subcon�nent, Architect Mazharul Islam. In the process of evolu�on in 1993, the Atelier turned into a limited liability company ‘VIITI Sthapa� Brindo Ltd.’ Presently lead by Architect Iqbal Habib and Architect Ish�aque Zahir the firm con�nues with its responsive and responsible a�tude towards prac�ce. VITTI considers every design project as an opportunity for new experiments that leads to crea�ve design solu�ons considering site poten�als, socio-cultural & economic context and very essence of the program. Architects of Taqwa mosque: Md. Iqbal Habib Md. Ish�aque Zahir Ahsanul Haque Rubel Kawsary Parveen
COHESIVE WITH NATURE Renovation & Extension of Taqwa Mosque DOT: SEPTEMBER 2015
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The surrounding lush greenery and the Lake itself played a key role in the renova�on and extension of the exis�ng Taqwa Mosque situated in Dhanmondi Residen�al Area, a neighbouhood established in Dhaka in the 1950s. The harmonious coexistence of the exis�ng trees with the lake was the major concern when the project was undertaken by the architect for .renova�on and extending up to five floors. Being sympathe�c towards the original design, the case of Masjid Navibi at Medina had been considered as the inspira�on where the both original and the extensions are explicitly adopted. A�er renova�on the old mosque building turned as terraces on the north and screened by exterior wood louvers. The new extension has terrace gardens on the North and the East side contains terraces and voids between the stair way and ablu�on area. The terraces are placed in such a manner that they form an open pla�orm to enjoy the serene landscape, whereas the stair landings offer feelings of floa�ng decks to over view the tranquility of the lake. The newly created dialogue between the nature and the man made has drama�cally changed its old discord with the nature.The natural elements like air and sunlight are being penetra�ng through the permeable external façade diffusing through the terraces. The exterior wood louvres are ac�ng as filters for the direct 08 DOT: SEPTEMBER 2015
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01. Children Space 02. Female Rest Space 03. Tabliq 04. Staff Accommoda�on 05. Medical Center 06. Ablu�on 07. Female Ablu�on 08. Dinning
09. Kitchen 10. Society Staff Office 11. Indoor Toilet 12. Crema�on Room 13. Mortuary 14. Generator Room 15. Out Door Toilet 16. Shower
B
17. Non Sterile Storage 18. Shoe Rack 19. Mehrab 20. Store 21. Prayer Space 22. Janaja Space 23. Bedroom 24. Living Room
25. Dorm 26. Teacher’s Dorm 27. Library 28. Research Center 29. Office 30. Female Medita�on Zone 31. Audio 32. Quran Sharif Rack
sunlight and finally deliver a so� light inside the mosque. The louvers redefine the concept of openings, channeling the breeze enhancing cross ven�la�on but maintaining privacy from passersby. The mul�layered form is made open through the perfora�ons between louvers, with free flowing spaces towards the nature overt to the contemplator praying inside. The operable wood louvers, glass louver panels and folded glass doors in the interior spaces are kept open and introduced only to provide protec�on from adverse clima�c condi�ons. The interior, through its blended openness, creates an ambience of beholding the natural surroundings for the contemplator subjec�ng the mediator as part of the whole natural se�ng. Since the renova�on and extension have been ini�ated on exis�ng load bearing walls, the lack of previous informa�on created confusion about its stability to carry further extension; hence the whole issue of structural stability was handled with due diligence. The addi�onal load for the extension has been transferred to the re-strengthened columns and load bearing walls. The exis�ng dome has been replaced by a fiber glass dome to reduce weight on the structure. The internal steel truss and MS frames hold the exposed wood louvers in place. The non structural members have been removed to create an open white prayer hall in every floor.
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BEFORE RENEVATION
Roadside Eleva�on
The inspira�on for a func�onal plan has been derived from the zoning of Sath Masjid, at Mohammadpur, Dhaka, where the Prayer Spaces are placed on upper levels having living and storage facili�es beneath. The centralized served area is being flanked by the services on the sides. The ground floor at the old part of the mosque comprises of a central prayer area for female. The north side contains the female res�ng and children space. A stair way connects the north side with the upper floors. The mortuary and cadaver room is placed on the west. The west side is connected to the upper floors by stair way. There are the ablu�on areas for both male and female on the south with the medical centre adjacent to it. The Madrasa behind the medical centre is accessed through a separate passage. The staff and society staff office and the private dining served by a kitchen are situated on the other side of the passage. A stair way connects to the upper floors also from the south. The east end contains the washroom facili�es with a stair, on the north, connec�ng only to the first floor and the eastern washrooms. The north side has an outdoor deck with lake view. It has a façade treatment of brick
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Lakeside Eleva�on
masonry, wood louvers and exposed steel truss. The façade is inscribed with wood calligraphy of Qalma Tahiba impar�ng pause to the ver�cal monotony of louvers.The contemplators get to the first floor prayer hall by means of a wide stair situated on the Southern side at the main entrance whereas an open to sky ramp leads to the first floor providing unhindered access for everyone. A pair of escalators is situated next to the ramp landing from the first floor. Accommoda�ons for the Pesh Imam and the Kha�b are placed on the west and facilitated with dining, living, bed and washrooms. The second floor is the central prayer hall whereas at the same floor there are two dorm rooms on the west accommoda�ng ten and sixteen persons per room with a void space in between.. The ablu�on and washrooms are situated on the east. The void is the courtyard for the mosque containing a volumetric space from the first floor to the fourth floor. The void connects the old mosque prayer hall with the new extension embodying a common breathing space by reini�a�ng the tradi�onal courtyard of mosques. The void is covered on the fourth floor with proof
pneuma�c structure. The third floor consists of a dorm room for eighteen people and accommoda�on for two teachers. A central prayer hall with a terrace on the south and void in the middle is situated. The new addi�on of fiber glass dome over fi�h floor is visible from the prayer hall. The escalator ends up at this level. The ablu�on and wash rooms are on the east end. The fourth floor holds the dome. The new extension accommodates the Islamic educa�on and informa�on center. The informa�on center is comprised of the library, a research center, class rooms and an office bordering and viewing the void, through the fiber glass walls. The open class room adjacent to the void are divisible into two spaces and be covered by folded doors when necessary.
Photo: Ahsanul Hoque
Finally the renova�on and extension of Taqwa Mosque clearly indicates that an extensive ini�a�ve has been deliberately made to turn the new design as an atypical of its contemporary counterparts. The renova�on and extension of Taqwa Mosque strongly advocates the essence of Mosque Architecture by avoiding ornamenta�on and typical forms, rather made it conducive to and cohesive with nature.
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www.mplusebd.com
MPLUSE ENGINEERING LTD.
phone: +8801711503376, +8802961080 email: infor@mplusebd.com, badsha.mondol@gmail.com House 47, Road 02, Sector 05, Uttara Model Town, Dhaka 1230, Bangladesh
PROJECT
Compe��on Submissions
Project Architect: Ar. Tanzim Hasan Salim Ar. Naheed Farzana Architectural Consultant: DWG
THE LIBERATION WAR MUSEUM WINNING ENTRY Design Competition Organized by
LIBERATION WAR MUSEUM TRUST In association with
INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS BANGLADESH year 2009
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Other Consultants: Associate Consultant: Vistaara Architects (Pvt.) Ltd. Structural Consultant: TDM Steel Part: Engr. Adnan Tanvir Newaz Pre-stress: Engr. Rafiqul Islam Air Cra� System: Engr. Shariful Alam MEP Consultants: UP, JBE, AVE Engineers, Techno Consult Ltd Acous�cs: DWG
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Rendered Image
The Libera�on War Museum is designed to serve as a contextual landmark of the city and the na�on as a whole and a contemporary pla�orm for public interac�on and exchange. The concept envisages the need for transfer of not only knowledge, but also the spirit of our independence for all genera�ons to come. The formal expression of the libera�on war museum is considered to be austere & somber as if telling a story through sight. The form, planning and implica�on of this public space illustrate the spirit of Bangladesh’s Libera�on War through architectonic expressions. The heart of the project is the chamber of remembrance and realiza�on encompassing a central void, through which light falls upon the water body beneath -reflec�ng the eternal flame –signifying an imagina�ve rela�on to the forces of nature culmina�ng through our minds in co-rela�on towards victory and tranquility. The Libera�on War Museum is an�cipated to be not only the symbol and representa�on of our own struggle for independence of Bangladesh as a na�on, but also a memorial to the universality of independence regardless of boundaries. The new Museum infuses various aspects of the libera�on war of Bangladesh as well as an emblem & edifice embodying the ravages of war, the agony & despair of war vic�ms & the supreme sacrifices made during the war in 1971.
It not only becomes an altar for homage & remembrance but also a pluralis�c pla�orm for events & ac�vi�es for conveying the memory & history of the war for genera�ons to come. The building metaphorically celebrates the ela�on of victory & as well embodies the loss of lives, the anguish & pain thema�cally by a central void space. The main eleva�on is not unlike a snapshot of the silhoue�e of protests & mass demonstra�ons during popular uprisings. The eternal flame which is a central feature depicts the primordial form of human freedom irrespec�ve of na�on, boundary or demography & thus becomes a con�nuum of human struggle towards holis�c freedom.
Ar. Tanzim Hasan Salim & Ar. Naheed Farzana both completed their Bachelor of Architecture degree from Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology (BUET) in 2001. In 2003 both of them went to Bauhaus Dessau in Germany under the University of Anhalt to pursue their M. Arch. Degree. After completing first semester they opted an extensive travel to visit important projects in France, Spain & The Netherlands as well as in Germany. In 2004 the couple started their own office Raum_Entropy along with Ar. Mahmudun Nobi and after working for couple of years locally, from 2008-20010 Tanzim Hasan Salim worked at AEC Consultants in Abu Dhabi as an Architect. During this period the couple won the competition for Liberation War Museum, Bangladesh and established their current office DWG (Design Works Group) in 2010. They have several awards in their credential. Their practice tends to incorporate contemporary thoughts & functional aesthetics towards a rational yet visually & spatially exciting approach to form a total architectonic experience that is contextual, contemplative & progressive. Ar. Tanzim Hasan Salim is a passionate painter and participated in several group exhibitions.
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Photo: Tanzim Selim
SECTION Y-Y
Bangladesh Leader in AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS
CONFIDENCE TRADE LIMITED
Office: 09-05 Navana Tower, 45 Gulshan Avenue, Dhaka-1212 Phone No: +8802 9888730, +8802 9889320, Fax No: +8802 9886665 E-mail: contrade@dhakacom.com, Website: www.contradeltd.com
GULSHAN CLUB
WINNING ENTRY Design Competition Organized by
GULSHAN CLUB LTD In association with
INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS BANGLADESH year 2010
UNBUILT PROJECT
Dr. M. Saleh Uddin & FORM.3 architects Project Principal: Ar. Dr. M. Saleh Uddin Design Team Ar. Md. Didarul Islam Bhuiyan Dipu Team Leader, Design Ar. Dilruba Ferdous Shuvra
For the project, Gulshan Club Limited, the urban dimension and the territory are more emphaized and handled with care. The building not only holds the iconic image for commercial Gulshan but also offers sensi�vity towards adverse microclima�c consequences on residen�al neighbourhood around. The design seeks ‘urban nature’ whose color is not just green but grey, too. Trees, hedges, lawns are its part, however, roads, ar�ficial water garden, bare walls, penetra�on and ven�la�on axes belong to it too. The site is situated at a major loca�on of the city, along a commercial road at one side and on the other, a residen�al area. Therefore, the urban considera�on was of utmost significance. It was also important to establish a corporate image which will be a contribu�on to the urban layer. The club complex aims to be an icon that leaves an imprint in one’s memory once and for all. The Gulshan Club Building is imagined to be an icon, equally powerful both during day and night. DOT: SEPTEMBER 2015
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CLUB COMPLEX. One feels completely in the outdoor but with a sense of privacy & contained. The space is effec�vely an urban court where diverse ac�vi�es ar�culate fes�ve mood and a sense of sharing. The space has room for tennis courts and gallery, open and semi-open concerts, banquets, cultural programs, annual gathering. And party spaces for both club members and guests. The transparency permits the celebra�on through and ins�tutes a visual rela�onship with the surroundings. This ensures the passive sharing which enhances the community feeling. Not only to be responsive to tropical clima�c impera�ves, but also taking into
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considera�on the character of the neighborhood, two Urban Apertures were designed for view as well as cross ven�la�on, with the picturesque panoramic view of surroundings. The east-west urban aperture of 75’X60’ and north-south urban aperture of 100’X60’ modify the site geography by linking physically the building and visually the elements of the site. The cooling load is reduced by introducing ‘Light and Water Garden’, ‘UV Infrared Protec�ve Glass Screen’ and deep urban terraces on south. The light and water garden is designed not only to respond to nature, but also to add value to the environment, to respect the tradi�onal belief, and to
create a calm and scenic atmosphere. The garden effec�vely complements the feeling of spaciousness and light. Sunken below ground, the garden symbolizes a transparent volume interlocked with building and natural landscape. The enigma�c sheathering at the glass screen on the edge of the watergarden adds seduc�on to the space. The water garden not only helps to reduce the cooling load, but also calms and sooths you when you sit beside the water and enjoy your leisure. Even the present club me bers dine and enjoy leisure by garden side and this fact is addressed in the new design, too. A sculptural garden-staircase is introduced right in
front of the lotus court to connect the ground created on different levels and of course to take people through an experience based on the modular rhythm of footsteps. The presiden�al suits, two in number, are privileged with spectacular view of Banani Lake and cityscape by large open terraces. In addi�on to program requirement, one club member lounge and ladies lounge are designed to secure sense of belongingness of the club members. A semi outdoor space with green carpet ensures candidness with private use. A small day care centre is also provided considering the working parents and understanding the user group.
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Gulshan Club Limited shows lightness and fragility in struc ture while revealing its complexity to both the passing spectators and distant viewers. GCL would become a new symbol of cultural energy for the members and the city as well forming a vector to the future by its emblema�c appearance and contents.
Architecture begins where engineering ends
Walter Gropius
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Project Team: A K M Muajjam Hossain Russel Saikat Barua Arghy Vha�acharya Amitava Debnath Tania Afroz Nazmul Islam Sieam Mishuk Du�a Nazia Tarannum Shamima Chowdhury Azrin Alom Nabila Iqbal Rehman Taki Ferdous all images c FORM.3 a r c h i t e c t s
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REVEALING THE INTROVERT Chittagong Bay View Hotel
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PHOTO: MKP
COVERSTORY
ARCHITECTS Principal Architect Mustapha Khalid PALASH Design Development Architect M. A. Kayesh Tanim Documenta�on Architect Mustasim Mahmud Khan Coordina�on Architect Shahzia Islam Assistant Architects Design Phase Ehsanul Alam Khondoker Ashifuzzaman Mamunur Rashid Development Phase Nayma Nawshin Ayesha Ma�n Site in Charge Md. Sirajul Islam CONSULTANTS Architectural Vistaara Architects [Pvt.] Ltd. Interior Design Vistaara Architects [Pvt.] Ltd. Structural Design Digital Solu�on Ltd. Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing U�lity Professionals Ligh�ng Design Vistaara in associa�on with Lightbox Project Management AI Associates Ltd. Structural Design Advisor BRTC, BUET
With the advent of development, rapid growth and urbaniza�on, the demand for a star rated hotel in Chi�agong, the main port city of Bangladesh, was acutely felt. Sena Hotels Developments Ltd. (SHDL), ini�ated a bold venture in 2009, to construct a 5-star hotel to fill up the vacuum. In this respect an Interna�onal quota�on to select the Architectural Consultant for the Project was floated in the month of July of same year. A good number of reputed local and interna�onal architectural firms par�cipated in the bid. A�er rigorous selec�on procedure ‘Vistaara Architects [Pvt.] Ltd.’ a reputed architectural firm of Bangladesh was selected as the Lead and Architectural Consultant for this MegaProject. Subsequently Vistaara was also bestowed with the responsibili�es to undertake Interior Design, Ligh�ng Design, Signage Design and some other works; it was a rare accolade awarded to any Bangladeshi firm ever. By the �me Vistaara already had a track record of designing and successfully comple�ng several landmarks and mega projects in Dhaka worth of cita�on. The decision can be regarded as a mile stone in the chronicle of Bangladeshi Architectural prac�ce. SHDL is an enterprise of Sena Welfare Trust and owns the property Radisson BLU Water Garden Hotel in the prime loca�on of Dhaka for almost a decade and was leading the hospitality business with a great pride and success. Interna�onally reputed hotelier Carlson Rezidor being the operator of the Dhaka property has been considered for the new hotel at Chi�agong by the SHDL. The success story inspired SHDL for another endeavor and the obvious op�on was Chi�agong, since the city acutely lacked any accommoda�on of true interna�onal standard where there was a great demand for it. DOT: SEPTEMBER 2015
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09. Outdooe Sitting 10. Esccalators 11. Banquaet Drop Off 12. Pre-Function 13. Toilets 14. Guest Lifts 15. Service Lifts 16. Helical Parking
PHOTO: CRHG
PHOTO: MKP
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The owner of Radisson Hotel chain is globally known Carlson RezidorGroup, who already has a service agreement for the Radisson Dhaka. Carlson Rezidor erstwhile Carlson Groupis in hospitality business since 1960 and manages with impeccable reputa�on more than1300 proper�es all over the world and maintains a strong foothold in South Asia. Their brand ranges from top notch to affordable business hotel. The Dhaka property is one of CRG’s most profitable one, and given an opportunity they opted for the Radisson Chi�agong without further ado. By reviewing design, images, program and the sheer size and facili�es proposed by Vistaara, the operator from the very beginning decided to tag the Chi�agong property as ‘BLU’, the gem of the Radisson Family. Context Chi�agong has a rich past and there is s�ll reminiscents of colonial architecture in the city. During the Raj era the town was a major Railway hub and a good number of edifices belonging to them s�ll exist. The city also played a major role both during the par��on of India and libera�on war of Bangladesh. The region has the most varied culture and topography, blessed with hills and sea, tribal culture, flora and fauna. Nature is in full of bounty over there.
LEVEL 04
The site selected for the hotel is on SS Khaled Road, a quaint but important road, connec�ng the main thoroughfares CDA Avenue and Kazirdeuri. The exact loca�on of the site is in between two slopes of Chi�agong Club and Old Circuit House, on analmost a flat land with a mild gradient towards the back side. The land lot �ll almost the comple�on of the project was 4.5 acres and was ini�ally connected by a private 30 mete long and 5 meter wide road having the Tennis
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Guest Lifts Service Lifts Toilet Health & spa Swimming Pool BBQ Terrace SHDL Office Staff/ GM Accom. Deluxe Guestrooms Suite Executive Class Lounge Presidential Suite Royale Suite Private Pool Specialty Restaurant Outdoor Sitting
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PHOTO: ASIF
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Court arena of Chi�agong Club si�ng in between the plot and SS Khaled Road. Such narrow connec�vity with the main road posed a great challenge in terms of accessibility to the property and the posi�on of the Tennis Courts were the biggest obstacles in terms of visual connec�vity with the main road in front. Further to these, the largest mosque of Chi�agong behind the plot imparted another crucial factor to be considered in genera�ng the schema�c layout for the project. In a nutshell the proposed site, though flat and quite large in size, was a perfect ‘pocket’ case �ll six months prior construc�on. The front por�on of the site, which used to be the Tennis Court Arena of Chi�agong club, was annexed at a later stage, leaving no way other than using it as a parking lot and landscaped area. Architecture One of the prime factors that dictated the design of the hotel is the site and its surrounding constraints. The contexts all together governed and influenced the concept and design procedure more than any conven�onal building. The site is at a lower eleva�on than the surroundings, the stadium on the south and the largest mosque of the city on the north all are found to be a sharp contrast to the USE and NEED of a star rated hotel. This constraint worked as a basic design guideline and augmented for an introvert building that in turn helps genera�ng an ‘Encapsulated Nature’ within. The hotel was conceptualized in such a way so that an internal environment fit for a hotel can be created with a defini�ve blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. Being elongated on north-south direc�on, advantages have been taken in dis�nc�vely dividing the func�onality of the property through inundated courtyards. Such divisions were the . DOT: SEPTEMBER 2015
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outcome of the local social context where some of the ac�vi�es of a star rated hotel are being considered as ‘taboo’. The three blocks of the hotel; Public, Guest and Banquet are centered about three courtyards: Divine, Atrium and Himchhari. To be precise, these are the very basic elements from which the design originated and grew organically. 3 Courtyards in a row separate 3 building blocks dis�nc�vely considering their func�onal aspects. Out of 3, 1st and 3rd courtyards are open to nature and the second one has been turned into an Atrium flanked by 30
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the 20 Storied Guestroom Block. Annex Block, being the first building has been considered for the func�ons like deli, retails, banks, conferencing facili�es and the Bar those would be availed by outsiders mostly. It is connected by a wagon bridge to the Tower block. This metaphorically designed bridge is a reminiscence of the past, depic�ng the rich heritage of railway in Chi�agong. The Divine Court separates the Annex Block from the main Tower Block that actually houses the Main Lobby, Restaurants, and above all the Guestrooms. Then a�er the Himchhori Court, the third one joins the Banquet Hall Block with the Tower Block. PHOTO: CRHG
PHOTO: ASIF
Therefore, being posi�oned at the centre the Tower Block is flanked by two open to sky courtyards edged by two podium blocks as men�oned. The default linear se�ng of these three blocks gives an efficient management in terms of facility handling and traffics movements. Introduc�on of the courtyards thus helps the deliberate a�empt of an introvert design allowing ample day lights all around the interior spaces supplemented by variety of exterior views. A�empts have been made to create lo� spaces those are huge in volume giving a unique experience for the users. The Atrium, rising from the podium level �ll the top of the tower, embodies five levels of podium and allows bold interplay of interior spaces, helping to achieve a different dimension. The Atrium is surrounded by op�c fiber starry night guestroom corridor ceiling and looking up gives celes�al feelings. Ini�ally the whole building was considered as fair face concrete but during construc�on period due to technical inabili�es the podium block has been clad in with terraco�a �les. The enormous solid walls at podium level have been relieved with sca�ered niches of random sizes mimicking the pigeon holes on the hillocks whereas at Himchhori Court addi�on of two waterfalls enhance the depic�on of the metaphors. A unidirec�onal Tower block having the Atrium at its centre has been conceived to allow views of the Bay of Bengal and the Karnaphuly River from the guestrooms. PHOTO: MKP
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PHOTO: MKP
categories, such as standard, king, queen, junior suite and execu�ve suite and room for disabled persons. The special execu�ve check in lounge is at Level 16, the Presiden�al suites along with private pool and Royal suites at are at Level 18. . The building is terminated by a huge but sleek metal canopy and just below that level, a cigar bar and Italian restaurant. From this place a 360 degree breathtaking view of the city, bay and the country side beyond can be enjoyed. If someone is looking for solitary �me and peace of mind, the circular swimming and infinity pool at Level 5, on the roof of the mul�level circular parking lot, is the ideal place. The pool, largest of its kind in the country is associated with the health club and spa at the same level. Facili�es includes pool proper, toddler pool, Jacuzzi and juice bar along with commodious deck area. The view from the roof is spellbinding; the eye level is surrounded with greeneries of the nearby trees, giving an impression more of a rural se�ng.
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PHOTO: MKP
PHOTO: CRHG
Owner Shena Hotel Developments Ltd. Operator Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group Implimentation Team: Brig. Gen. Abdul Wahab, PD Lt. Col. Zulfiker Rahman, Adl. PD Lt. Col. Md. Reaz Uddin Khan, Dy. PD Maj. S.M. Ghulam Kawsar, Ast. PD Location SS Khaled Road, Chi�agong Area of the site: 5.5 acres Total Built Area: 73,723 square meter Floors: 22 in/c 5 Podium Levels & 2 Basements Bays : 290 Keys : 245 Restaurants: 6 Banquet Hall: 2 Floor Height Podium: 4.0 meter Level 6: 5.0 meter Level 20: 4.5 meter Guestrooms: 3.6 m No. of Car Parking: 400
PHOTO: MKP
PHOTO: ASIF PHOTO: MKP
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The main func�ons located at the banquet block are two humongous banquet halls, both in area and height, along with pre-func�on and other associated facili�es. The Himchari Court, very well propor�oned and decorated by mo�fs taken from Chi�agong Hill Tracts, such as water falls, bird’s nest, flora fauna embellish the area, and clearly visible from the pre func�on areas. The two long span Banquet Halls are stacked, one top of another, connected by escalators and elevators. The sheer volume of these halls is awe inspiring, where one really feels puny. The halls are equipped with all kinds of modern facili�es like SIS, Greenrooms, State of the art AV system, and enriched back of the house facili�es. The huge roof top of the halls is used for tennis courts for the hotel. In the realm of architecture of Bangladesh the Radisson BLU Bay Chi�agong View Hotel is a mastery display of work by Bangladeshi Architects and allied professionals, which portrays their acumen and dexterity. The project was a fast track one and completed in 45 months from its incep�on. Team Vistaara no doubt deserves an ode of praise for their laudable role.
Mustasim M. Khan 36
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PHOTO: MKP, CRHG, ASIF, MKP, ASIF (ccw)
PHOTOGRAPHY
HOPE THROUGH LENSES
Shafiqul Alam Kiron
Photographer, MAP Photo Agency
OLD AGE HOME : Basipuk, Gazipur. Old people deserve a special place at the family. Harsh reali�es of urban life have changed our lifestyle, resul�ng less contact �me with family members, parents and friends. The most vulnerable vic�ms of these circumstances are geriatric group. In some instances they have to face some pathe�c end. The Old and Child Rehabilita�on Centre at Basipuk at Gazipur District, a concern of Givensee Group, revitalizes the hope for these marginalized people who have been abandoned by their families. This issue of DOT presents some of the captures by renowned photographer Shafiqul Alam Kiron.
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Shafiqul Alam Kiron is a Photojournalist, Founder Member of Map Photo Agency. His interests revolves around the social jus�ce and its aspects. He believes that photographers have a duty towards society and should be watchful in order to create general awareness and create an impact.
Kiron started his career with Documentary Photography in 1997, the focus was on the Acid Survivors and the aspects of their social jus�ce. His photography during this period earned him the World Press Photo Award, and he had become the first Bangladeshi Photographer to be awarded same Award twice (1st Prize, People in the News Stories, 1998 and 2nd Prize, Spot News Stories, 2000). Publica�on of his photographs in Europe (Paris March, Biba Magazine, New Interna�onalists, Sunday Times, REVU, De Volkskrant and The Independent, London) exposed the horrific stories of acid throwing ac�vi�es in Bangladesh to the world. As a direct result, the Acid Survivors Founda�on (ASF), an NGO dedicated to help the vic�ms of acid throwing, was founded in 1999. Out of his social commitment, he has been volunteering for ASF since then. In the same year he was also awarded with the CARE France for Best Humanitarian Reportage. He is also three �mes recipient of the Commonwealth Photographic Award. Kiron has been professionally working with Humanitarian NGOs and Organiza�ons like - UNICEF, Save the Children Alliance, Sight Savers Interna�onal, ILO, ADB, and CAMPE. Kiron’s major month long exhibi�on with UNICEF and Acid Survivors Founda�on was held at UNICEF premises, Dhaka. His images were part of a television documentary created by ABC Network in 1999. His works were also shown at the World Press Exhibi�on in Dhaka and Amsterdam, Visa Purr L’Image, Perpignan and MAI-Photographies in France, known as the most pres�gious photo documentary gathering in the world. His last 17 years’ works have been compiled and published in March 2014 with a �tle “UNSTOPPABLE The Courage Within”; a book dedicated to the acid survivors. 42
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CONSERVATION
NIMTALI DEURI REVITALIZED Conserva�on Team Abu Sayeed M. Ahmed & Team
The Nimtali Deuri was the first noted building built in 1765-66 during the Colonial Period in Dhaka, as an entrance gate to the Nimtali Kothi or Palace, most of which has however disappeared. This building was built during the transi�on from Mughal to Colonial rule, and therefore, bears many features and styles of both the periods. The most significant elements of the structure are the Kiosks, Eaves, Pinnacle, Marlon shaped ba�lements on the roof, kalasa shaped base of the turrets, high plinth, hanging balconies and rectangular panel on the exterior surface, Even the thick masonry walls built with-small hand-made bricks, bonded with thick lime surki: mortar covered with lime surki plaster coated with lime punning, are the tes�mony of Mughal construc�on system. This is probably the earliest surviving building which used wood joists and girders in the roof construc�on system. Cast iron beams collected from railway are applied in different places in the top floor; might have been a later addi�on. Two layers of brick �les covered by lime concrete and supported by �mber or iron joists are the most accepted or widely prac�ced construc�onal system of colonial period. Thus it remains as the first example of Anglo-Mughal Architecture in the 400 years old capital city Dhaka, followed by many more. Its polygonal shape in plan is unique, which dis�nguishes it from other gate-houses of both earlier and later period. Regarding the func�onal significance, this building was not only a gate-house; rather it was the center of a socio-religious life of the inhabitants of Dhaka. The grand Eid procession of Dhaka used to originate and terminate at the Nimtali Deuri. DOT: SEPTEMBER 2015
43
Timeline of
Nimtali Deuri
1940
1863
Sketched by De FabeckFredrick William Alexander
Sketched by De FabeckFredrick William Alexander
photographed by Historian Taufoor
1833
Two layers of brick �les covered by lime concrete and supported by �mber or iron joists are the most accepted or widely prac�ced construc�onal system of colonial period. Thus it remains as the first example of Anglo-Mughal Architecture in the 400 years old capital city Dhaka, followed by many more. Its polygonal shape in plan is unique, which dis�nguishes it from other gate-houses of both earlier and later period. Regarding the func�onal significance, this building was not only a gate-house; rather it was the center of a socio-religious life of the inhabitants of Dhaka. The grand Eid procession of Dhaka used to originate and terminate at the Nimtali Deuri. The Deuri in its be�er days housed many people and ins�tu�ons. The monument was used as a gate house of Nimtali Palace Complex and was also Nakkarkhana and Nahabhatkhana since its incep�on in 1766 �ll 1843. The func�onal use of the small edifice between 1843 and 1913 is s�ll unknown. The Deuri was used as a Museum office from 1913 to 1933. The Deuri was used for a sort span of �me as a residence of Proctor of the Dhaka University before Asia�c Society started in 1952. Deuri= Gate; Kalasha= Pitcher; Surki= Dust of clay Brick Nakkarkhana= Servant’s Quarter; Nahabatkha= Fes�val Place
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Painting by Alam Masafwer
1850
Asiatic Society
1952
2010
Before Restoration
of Bangladesh
2
2012
Present Day
During restoration
2011
First Floor Plan
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Govinda Gunalanker Hostel Chittagong, Bangladesh.
The project is a students’ hostel located in Jobra, a village situated adjacent to the University of Chi�agong. The site is flanked by agricultural land on the east and the west, a water body on the north and the university campus on the south that originally had a Buddhist Temple and few other incomplete structures accommoda�ng monks and students of Buddhist faith. The topography of the site was ini�ally undula�ng and had li�le vegeta�on. The incep�on program for the Project was to design a single building for fi�y students’ accommoda�on with Dining, Lounge, Library and Supervisor’s Office Later a�er the construc�on began further fund was commi�ed by the Donors that subsequently prompted the Client to increase the size of the project program. Addi�onal site had been acquired by the Client during a�er the commencement of the construc�on.
Client: Croce Rossa Italiana Design and Construc�on: 1994-1998
The addi�onal works include a Second Building, an Overhead Water Tank and site developments. The new Building houses Accommoda�on for students, guests and monks, a Mee�ng room cum Library for the Temple and a Mul�purpose Hall.
Architect (1994-95): Diagram Architects Saif Ul Haque Jalal Ahmad Salma Parvin Khan
The total work was completed in two phases over a period of slightly more than four years. The construc�on works of the first phase commenced in February 1995 and completed in July 1996 while the works of the second phase commenced in January 1997 and completed in December 1998.
Architect (1994-95): Saif Ul Haque Sthapa� Saif Ul Haque Salma Parvin Khan Muhammad A�qul Haq
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