Mostasim BIllah_Architectural Portfolio

As an aspiring architect, my primary goal is to contribute to the development of a sustainable built environment. I am dedicated to prioritizing rational thinking in the context of architectural design, placing emphasis on functionality over mere aesthetic appeal. My objective is to improve building performance and promote the harmonious coexistence of living organisms through thoughtful and responsible architectural practices.

CONTENTS

Academic Works_UWM

The Minimalists: An intentional community

Lakefront Gateway Park & Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame

Professional Works

Landscape Design: Bangladesh Military Museum

Landscape Design: Mana Bay Water Park

Apon Aloy: Single Family Residence

Affordable Housing For Lower Middle Income Group

Tepakhola Lake Development

Delwar Hossain Playground

Academic Works_NSU

Institute of Fine Arts

Incremental Housing For Duaripara Slum

Rebuilding Ramu Shima Bihara

Nature Interpretation Center

Minimalist Bee Keepers:

Living a meaningful life with less and with bees

Timeline: Spring, 2023

Location: MIlwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

Course Teacher: Remus Macovei

The minimalist community from minimalist.org has been living in the city for over a year now, and they have been making waves in the sustainability and biodiversity movement. Their unique philosophy is centered around making room for more, by freeing up space, both physically and mentally, through the practice of minimalism. And their latest endeavor involves cultivating bees to promote biodiversity. Their approach to minimalism is not about deprivation, but rather about focusing on what truly matters. As Joshua Becker, the founder of minimalist.org, puts it, “Minimalists don’t focus on having less, less, less. We focus on making room for more: more time, more peace, more creativity, more experiences, more contribution, more contentment, more freedom. Clearing the clutter frees up the space.”

With the aim of ensuring comparable projects, individuals are advised to assume that upon arrival at the site in year 1, a pile of 50 mass timber panels (measuring 10’ x 40’ with a 5-ply, 7” thickness) awaits use by year 10. As needed, glulam beams and columns should be utilized. Structural mass timber components, including walls, slabs, roofing, columns, and beams, must collectively constitute a minimum of 50% of the overall materials. Additional materials such as masonry, concrete, metals, or other woods may be incorporated based on individual project requirements. It is imperative to note that mass timber elements cannot be exposed to weathering; therefore, a cladding material, which may include wood, must be designated. Only interior mass timber elements may remain exposed in this context.

Year 1 : 5 residents

Year 10 : 50 residents

Year 20 : dissolution

In year 1, accommodating 5 residents necessitates 1500 sqft of enclosed space, whereas in year 10, accommodating 50 residents mandates 15,000 sqft of enclosed space. Enclosed space may or may not be required by year 20 (dissolution). The found mass timber panels can be cut into smaller sections, and adjustments to the installed mass timber elements from year 1 to year 10 to year 20 are permissible and encouraged. Operations such as relocation (e.g., from panel wall to slab), incision (for apertures), subdivision, carving, etc., are feasible. Any elements removed from the mass timber panel must be repurposed elsewhere within the project over its 20-year duration.

One of the ways that the minimalist community from minimalist.org is making room for more is by cultivating bees. Bees are crucial to the biodiversity of our planet, and their populations have been declining rapidly in recent years. The minimalist community has taken it upon themselves to do their part in promoting bee populations in their city. They have set up beehives in their urban gardens, and the bees have been thriving. The minimalist community has been working closely with local environmental organizations to ensure that their beekeeping practices are sustainable and environmentally friendly. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. The city of Milwaukee has taken notice of their work and has even awarded them a grant to expand their beekeeping operations. The minimalist community has also been invited to speak at local sustainability events, where they share their philosophy and promote sustainable living. The minimalist community’s approach to beekeeping is also in line with their minimalism philosophy. By cultivating bees, they are creating space for more biodiversity in their city. Bees play a crucial role in pollinating plants, which is essential for the growth and survival of many species. In addition to their beekeeping efforts, the minimalist community is also involved in other sustainability initiatives. They have set up community gardens throughout the city, where they grow organic produce and encourage others to do the same. They also promote sustainable transportation, such as cycling and public transit, as a way to reduce their carbon footprint.

Lakefront Gateway Park & Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame

Timeline: Fall, 2023

Location: MIlwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

Course Teacher: RINKA+

Our architectural design vision for the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame (WAHOF) embraces the Project Vision Statement’s call to reimagine it as a vibrant public destination fostering interaction, gathering, and celebration. Our goal is to seamlessly integrate the rich tradition of the WAHOF with the aspirations of the next generation of inductees and the wider community. We envision a space that not only honors past achievements but also serves as a dynamic hub for present and future connections. Central to our design is the concept of creating a monumental Hall of Fame that transcends mere physical structure to become an immersive journey through space. Drawing inspiration from the natural elements of greenery and water (blue), we seek to forge a harmonious connection between the built environment and the surrounding landscape. By embracing the existing landscape geometry and the site’s unique context, we aim to seamlessly blend the new architectural intervention with its surroundings, ensuring a sense of continuity and belonging. Our design approach is rooted in sustainability principles, emphasizing the responsible use of resources and minimizing environmental impact. We propose the utilization of local materials, particularly Lannon Stone, to not only pay homage to the region’s heritage but also to reduce carbon footprint associated with transportation. Through thoughtful design decisions and innovative strategies, we aim to create a space that not only stands as a testament to athletic achievement but also serves as a beacon of sustainability and stewardship. In essence, our architectural vision for the WAHOF embodies a commitment to honoring the past while embracing the future. It is a space where tradition and innovation converge, where individuals from all walks of life can come together to celebrate the enduring spirit of athleticism and community.

Taking into account the pre-existing geometric landscape patterns of world-renowned landscape architect Dan Kile’s Cudahy Garden

A street was designed in accordance with the existing landscape geometry

The path system was developed in accordance with the existing landscape geometry of the designated site for optimal integration with the landscape

Additionally, two prominent pathways were strategically introduced to seamlessly interconnect all corners and sections of the area

The path system was intricately crafted to harmonize with the nature and landscape geometry of the designated site

Two substantial stone (local) walls were conceptualized to serve as the primary outdoor hall of fame, integrated with the central connecting pathway

Additional structures providing services have been incorporated alongside the stone wall in the architectural design-development

The program for these buildings has been structured to distinguish between public and private spaces according to their inherent characteristics

Typical System:

- CMU wall.

- Self-adhered sheet or fluid-applied air barrier and WRB field membrane.

- Exterior insulation with intermittent cladding support clip.

- Air cavity with vertical Z-girt.

- Cement backer board

- Crack isolation membrane.

- Thinset mortar.

- Adhered veneer with grouted joints.

- Clear water repellent.

Sanded sealant joint over backer rod

Continuous break in cement backer board

Typical Assembly:

- Interior gypsum board

- Vapor retarder

- Steel-framed wall with batt insulation

- Exterior sheathing

- Self-adhered sheet- or fluid-applied air barrier nd WRB field membrane

- Semi-rigid exterior insulation

- Air cavity

- Anchored stone veneer with Clear water repellent

Vertical Z-girt over intermittent cladding support clip, fasten clip through fastened through air barrier sealant, fluid-applied flashing membrane, or self-adhered membrane patch per air barrier and WRB system manufacturer recommendations

Sheet-metal jamb trim, attached to intermittent

Sealant over bond breaker

Air barrier sealant over backer rod, tied to continuous seal at window perimeter

Window strap anchor, bed in air barrier sealant at continuous air barrier sealant joint plane

Vertical Z-girt over intermittent cladding support clip, fasten clip through fastened through air barrier sealant, fluid-applied flashing membrane, or self-adhered membrane patch per air barrier and WRB system manufacturer recommendations

Window strap anchor, bed in air barrier sealant at continuous air barrier sealant joint plane

Air barrier sealant over backer rod, tied to continuous seal at window perimeter

Typical Assembly:

- Interior gypsum board

- Vapor retarder

- Steel-framed wall with batt insulation

- Exterior sheathing

- Self-adhered sheet- or fluid-applied air barrier nd WRB field membrane

- Semi-rigid exterior insulation

- Air cavity

- Anchored stone veneer with Clear water repellent

Sanded sealant joint over backer rod

Continuous break in cement backer board

Typical System:

- CMU wall

- Self-adhered sheet or fluid-applied air barrier and WRB field membrane

- Exterior insulation with intermittent cladding support clip

- Air cavity with vertical Z-girt

- Cement backer board

- Crack isolation membrane

- Thinset mortar

- Adhered veneer with grouted joints

- Clear water repellent

Our design approach is rooted in sustainability principles, emphasizing the responsible use of resources and minimizing environmental impact. We propose the utilization of local materials, particularly Lannon Stone, to not only pay homage to the region’s heritage but also to reduce carbon footprint associated with transportation. Through thoughtful design decisions and innovative strategies, we aim to create a space that not only stands as a testament to athletic achievement but also serves as a beacon of sustainability and stewardship. In essence, our architectural vision for the WAHOF embodies a commitment to honoring the past while embracing the future. It is a space where tradition and innovation converge, where individuals from all walks of life can come together to celebrate the enduring spirit of athleticism and community.

Bangladesh Military Museum

Landscape Design

Timeline: 2019 - 2021

Location: Dhaka, Bangladesh

Chief Architect: Md Rabiul Islam,GoAaT/ Joljongol.

Role: Project Architect (Design and Construction).

The Bangabandhu Military Museum, situated at Bijoy Sarani, Dhaka, Bangladesh, serves as a tribute to the martyrs who laid down their lives during the nation’s struggle for independence in 1971. Nestled amidst a densely populated urban area, the museum stands as a poignant reminder of Bangladesh’s historic journey to sovereignty. Surrounding the site are various waterbodies, including those within the Chandrima Udyan Park, the National Parliament House, Old Airport, and Novo Theatre, creating a unique and somewhat disrupted ecosystem where native birds contend with diminishing habitats due to rapid urbanization.

The primary objective of the architectural design is to harmonize the built environment with the natural ecosystem, particularly focusing on providing habitat and refuge for native bird species while creating an inviting and serene ambiance for visitors. This involves a meticulous selection and strategic placement of native trees and plants to soften the paved areas, enable rainwater infiltration, and enhance biodiversity. The design incorporates native trees such as Kathbadam (Indian Almond) and Javacassia (Cassia Javanica) as large canopy trees along the entrance to provide shade and maintain a visual connection to the site. Additionally, Rengun Bash (Burmese Bamboo) is strategically planted to offer privacy and shelter for birds while adding a natural aesthetic to the landscape. To mitigate runoff and promote water absorption, the landscape design features green patches adorned with Kolaboti (Indian Shot) and Dhanlily (Yellow Irish). These plants act as heat sinks, allowing for the purification and infiltration of rainwater, thus reducing the site’s environmental impact. The selection of flowering plants such as Kanchan (Orchid) ensures a vibrant and fragrant atmosphere throughout the year. By alternating the bloom seasons of different species, the landscape maintains its colorful appeal while providing shaded seating areas for visitors. Royal Palm trees are strategically planted along the front of the museum to maintain visibility while offering shading for pedestrians. The semi-paved pathway leading from the entrance to the museum is designed to integrate with the surrounding landscape, providing a seamless transition from the urban environment to the museum experience. The architectural design concept for the Bangabandhu Military Museum aims to create a symbiotic relationship between the built environment and the surrounding ecosystem. Through careful selection of native plants, strategic placement of trees, and thoughtful water management strategies, the design seeks to honor the museum’s historical significance while promoting biodiversity and environmental sustainability

Mana Bay Water Park

Landscape Design

Timeline: 2019 - 2023

Location: Dhaka, Bangladesh

Chief Architect: Md Rabiul Islam,GoAaT/ Joljongol.

Role: Project Architect (Design and Construction).

Located in Gajaria, Munshiganj, Dhaka, Bangladesh, Mana Bay Water Park emerges as a beacon of recreation amidst the bustling metropolis of Dhaka. Designed with a focus on catering to both local residents and foreign delegates engaged in export-oriented businesses, the park offers a rejuvenating oasis in close proximity to the densely populated urban landscape. As a testament to Bangladesh’s trajectory towards economic development, the park seamlessly integrates leisure and natural elements, creating an immersive experience for visitors.

Surrounded by diverse water bodies and agricultural lands, Mana Bay Water Park finds itself amidst a dynamic ecosystem that reflects the rapid urbanization of Dhaka. The juxtaposition of natural habitats and burgeoning urban infrastructure poses a unique challenge, where native flora and fauna strive to adapt amidst diminishing resources. The park’s design acknowledges this context, seeking to harmonize human recreation with environmental preservation. The landscape architecture of Mana Bay Water Park embraces principles of sustainability, cultural relevance, and user engagement. Drawing inspiration from Bangladesh’s rich natural and cultural heritage, the design incorporates elements that celebrate the nation’s identity while offering a retreat from the urban hustle. Water features play a central role in the design, symbolizing the country’s abundance of rivers and waterways while providing opportunities for leisure activities such as swimming, boating, and water sports. The park boasts a variety of water attractions including pools, slides, and fountains, catering to visitors of all ages. These features not only provide entertainment but also serve as focal points for social interaction and relaxation. Indigenous plant species are carefully selected and integrated into the park’s landscape, promoting biodiversity and enhancing the natural beauty of the surroundings. This approach not only supports local ecosystems but also reduces the park’s ecological footprint. Mana Bay Water Park incorporates cultural zones that showcase traditional Bangladeshi architecture, art, and cuisine. These areas serve as educational hubs, allowing visitors to learn about the country’s rich cultural heritage while enjoying authentic experiences. From renewable energy sources to waste management systems, the park implements various eco-friendly practices to minimize its environmental impact. Rainwater harvesting, solar energy utilization, and recycling initiatives are among the measures adopted to ensure sustainable operations. The design prioritizes accessibility for people of all abilities, with barrier-free pathways, wheelchair ramps, and inclusive facilities. Additionally, programming and events cater to diverse demographics, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity. Mana Bay Water Park epitomizes the convergence of nature, culture, and recreation, offering a transformative experience for visitors while honoring Bangladesh’s journey towards economic prosperity. By embracing sustainability, inclusivity, and cultural authenticity, the park serves as a model for responsible development in the face of urbanization, creating a harmonious balance between human activity and ecological stewardship.

Apon Aloy

Single Family Residence

Timeline: 2017-present

Location: Joypurhat, Bangladesh.

Architect: Mostasim Billah

Role: Design and project management.

A fundamental concept of ecological society is the harmonious co-existence between humans and nature. The separation we have produced through our isolated designs over time has not come without costs. Obesity, ADHD, and a reduction in imagination are attributed to a lack of interaction with the world. Unfortunately, this estrangement from nature directly affected our well-being. It has affected our ability to respond to vital contemporary issues, such as climate change, waste management, human rights violation, etc. This family residence built in Joypurhat district of Bangladesh. Situated in a fast-growing peri-urban area, predominantly agricultural land, holding a heritage of village’s socio-cultural values. The design objective was to create a symbiotic relationship within living organisms, with a sustainable approach to revive the local socio-cultural norm integrated with economy and ecology.

The amount of land that has been used for buildable surface, nearly the same amount of area, is created on top of the building for the vegetable garden. The green spaces are arranged in multi-layer. In addition to that, almost half of the ground floor area has direct and indirect soak-able green. The materials used were locally available, and manual human labor was used to construct the house, which promoted local craftsmanship, helped the local economy, reduced costs and ecological footprint.

The land with site line

Sandwiched the building between the extruded land and earth

Layering the extruded land different level

Two masses elongated in north south orientation

Including services in different level

Connecting the two masses, which also creates a courtyard space

Extended roof and cutting the half of front masses

Incorporating waterbody

The final outcome

Keeping the climate of that area in thoughts the building’s longer side has to be north south orientated. However, the site was longer on the east-west side. So the design has a composition in a module where the longer facades of the building fall in north-south. The cabinet of bedrooms has been taken recessed on the outer side to reduce the heat gain so that the heat takes time to get in. For natural ventilation, the monsoon windows are integrated. Therefore, the air passes inside the rooms, even when it rains.

Traditionally, women do not feel comfortable going in front of strangers, so they do their daily activities either inside the house or in a separated space from the house’s entrance. Respecting the social norms, the different hierarchy of spaces like semi-private courtyard merged with the front deck, and a private back yard has incorporated, which echoes this country’s local cultural norms. These integrated interactive spaces as a backyard where women and children feel safe to perform day-to-day activities, children play and women chatter with neighboring people increase interaction between people. There is a wash zone at service entry in the back, which is highly effective in this Covid-19 situation.

The pond in front of the house is also good enough to fulfill the protein requirement. The tertiary level of grey water filtration goes to the pond. The pond also helps in rainwater harvesting and earth water refilling. Rooftop Vegetable garden, multi-purpose backyard, and wooden front deck are the spaces that connect humans with nature in the day to day life. Multi-layered green and the pond will help to balance the ecosystem of the small space. The ratio of indoor and outdoor spaces creates a soothing atmosphere for the family.

A beautiful courtyard type space called “Orboroi Tola” is working as the house’s soul, as direct sunlight enters through the roof above the space. A striking play of light and shadow can be seen at different times of the day.The idea of co-existence has been tried to achieve by combining economy, ecology, and society on a small scale to create an impactful outcome.

The produce vegetable from the roof garden would be sufficient to meet the family’s need for the whole year. The rooftop garden helps in reducing the heat gain and energy requirements of the house. This small-scale urban agriculture will cut off the extra cost, labor, and pollution due to the process after growing the food for the consumers. The food that will be produced would directly go to the family, and the waste will also be used as organic fertilizer that reduces the cost of inorganic fertilizer. On top of that, it helps in better waste management. In the time of GMO and chemical pesticide used food, having fresh organic home-grown food is a blessing. Sharing home-grown vegetables with neighbors is a cultural norm that generates better bonding with surrounding people.

Vegetables Herbs Fish Fruits

Cauliflower Brassica oleracea var. botrytis

Cabbages Brassica oleracea

Red Amaranth Amaranthus gangeticus

Spinach Spinacia oleracea

Potato Solanum tuberosum

Eggplant Solanum melongena

Pepper Capsicum annuum

Tomato Solanum lycopersicum

Sweet gourd Cucurbita maxima

Lettuce Lactuca sativa

Carrot Daucus carota sativus

Bottle gourd Lagenaria siceraria

Bitter melon Momordica charantia

Okra Abelmoschus esculentus

Giant Taro Alocasia Macrorrhiroz

Taro Colocasia esculenta

Indian shot Canna indica

Water lily Nymphaea nouchali

Allamanda Allamanda cathartica

Sugar-apple Annona squamosa

Lychees Litchi chinensis

Star Gooseberry Phyllanthus acidus

Cucumber tree Averrhoa bilimbi

Lemon Citrus aurantifolia

Orange Citrus aurantium

Wood Apple Limonia acidissima

Star fruit Averrhoa carambola

Papaya Carica papaya

Banana Musa paradisiaca

Guava Psidium guajava

Burmese grape Baccaurea ramiflora

Pomelo Citrus maxima

Java Plum Syzygium cumini

Olive Olea europaea

Star Gooseberry Phyllanthus acidus

Aloe vera Aloe vera

Holy basil Ocimum tenuiflorum

Dheki shak Lygodium flexuosum

Wild mint Mentha arvensis

Indian Pennywort Centella asiatica

Turmeric Curcuma longa L.

Water spinach Ipomoea aquatica

Magur/Shing Gagata youssoufi

Golden barb Puntius gelius

Climbing gourami Anabas cobojius

Mola Carplet Amblypharyngodon microlepis

Indian Rui Labeo rohita

Indian Tilapia Oreochromis mossambicus

Micro Spaces

multi-level interaction

grey water management

minimum food wastage

culturally appropiate spaces

moonsoon window

self sustaining food production

courtyard space

sanitization at entrance

Ground Floor Plan

This project was very hard to render into reality because of the locality, which is far away from the capital city. I had to design the building taking into account the materials available locally, and more than 50 construction workers had to be trained. Nevertheless, by overcoming a plenty of hurdles this project is nearly on finishing stage and will be available to use within a few months.

Affordable Housing For Lower Middle Income Group

Competition Project

Timeline: September 2019 - December 2019

Location: Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Chief Architect: Md Rabiul Islam,GoAaT

Role: Worked as a part of design team and presentation team

With the growing population and industrialized society, our living pattern evolved, and a need to sprawl vertically increased to accommodate the large population. The vertical urban sprawl resulted in compact living boxes, isolated apartments, and more solid and paved surfaces disconnection from the ground. As the population grew, accommodation capacity kept shrinking, and the culture of communal living, social interaction, and community gatherings disappeared. This proposal aims to revive the traditional rural dwelling concept that allows multiple uses of a singular space, flexible spatial layout to maintain old living style in an urban landscape while maintaining a physical connection with the natural surroundings.

Flexible layout of the rural dwelling offeres generous living spaces to accommodate the residents and the various activities.

Early government designed standard housing with grid iron pattern.

Recent large scale land development projects with large areas and very little public facilities and interaction between tenants.

A walkable community where everyone goes through various interaction points to reach their unit.

The living units vary in size following the rural characteristics of Bari. It makes maximum use of sunlight and wind flow within a cozy layout. The toilet is broken down in two parts separating the shower from toilet. The shower space doubles as a veranda when necessary, the residents have option to open it up and close it when needed. Having a private veranda in dense housing is a luxury which is gradually getting lost to accommodate growing population. A veranda in small units acts as a breathing space or an interaction spot within each unit, a space for cloth drying or merely a spot to lookout. Such arrangement allows flexibility and option to use a single space in more than one way. The spatial layout of each unit is designed to enhance flexibility, increase usability making optimum use of the footprint. The bedrooms and living rooms are oriented facing courtyards and exterior views ensuring privacy, natural ventilation, sunlight and visibility from inside to outside.

The landscaping is carefully formulated so that common food items are produced within the complex. The rooftop gardens allow planting activities, facilitates the residents with homegrown fresh produce and makes the complex self-sufficient. We inherited the site with abundant mango, jackfruit and olives trees. The scattered location of trees segmented the courtyard creating negative spaces around the residential buildings, hence relocation of the fruit trees from the center of the court close to the community building on the east is proposed. Acacia trees are replaced with additional fruit trees to attract diverse birds and mammals.

Tepakhola Lake Development

Masterplan project

Timeline: 2019 - present

Location: Faridpur, Bangladesh

Chief Architect: Md Rabiul Islam,GoAaT

Role: Lake bank detail design

Tepakhola is an old lake situated in Faridpur city. The project intended to design public amenities surrounded by the lake. Age-based recreational facilities, bus counter, amphitheater, iconic tower are the noteworthy features incorporated in the masterplan. The lake is located in a significant node of Faridpur city. While going through the main spine road, the iconic tower can be seen from very far.

Integrating the lake into this project and maintaining a sustainable environment were key concerns for this project. Almost the entire lakefront area is surrounded by walkways because the city does not have adequate public park facilities like the walkway. Considering the geolocation of the lake this walkway has been kept detached from the ground in order not to interrupt the horizontal water filling as well as the ecosystem.

Road Footpath Green Buffer Walkway Water Edge Lake

Delwar Hossain Playground

Playground project

Timeline: 2016-present

Location: Lalbagh, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Chief Architect: Md Rabiul Islam,GoAaT

Role: Design and Construction drawing

Delowar Hossian playground is located in a residential area surrounded by various functions. The park act as a breathing space for the community but lack of safety, lack of vegetation, and unhygienic condition around the park makes it unattractive to the locals. The temple, crematorium as well as the graveyard shall be merged and raised into a common platform above the street level. Revitalizing the water body for its proper use as well as to attract local birds can improve the surrounding environment positively.

Some major functions include, School, a temple, a crematorium, a graveyard with a water body across the street, a public toilet, some slums, residential apartment. However, the temple and the crematoriums were not well planned and creates congestion. The park is commonly used during Eid-ul-Adha to sell sacrificial animals which makes surrounding environment remains unhygienic. Because of boundary walls segregation drug trafficking and other illegal activities after dark take place. The water body for the crematorium is used by local Hindus for funeral ritual however, the surrounding area of this water body is occupied by rickshaw and van parking as well as waste disposal zone. The crematorium chimney of narrow and short which causes to circulate in the air creating hazardous environment for the locals. To regenerate the ambiance of the park and increase the use of the functions around, some of the major changes include: The area around the crematorium can be converted into a common gathering space for the locals by establishing physical connection of the water body with the crematorium. To ensure children’s safety and their fluid movement in and around the park, two of the roads needs to have limited access to heavy vehicles. The school for deprived kids located inside the slum shall be replaced with a dedicated play zone for the deprived kids. The playground inside the park will be segregated on purpose using plantation. The leftover space beside Dome colony can be replaced by various stores to keep the area vibrant and alive after sunset. The temporary shops will be replaced with pharmacies and convenience store. After completion a nursery is proposed to help maintain the landscape and vegetation inside the park. The local community will be responsible for the overall maintenance.

Faculty of Fine Arts

Academic project

Course: Final year project

Timeline: 2015

Location: Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Course Teacher: Haroon Ur Rashid

As undergrad thesis project the main objective was to design the project in climate responsive way. The location is ecologically significant and also has a well-balanced ecosystem. To preserve the ecological value, while designing the project, the aim was to do minimum interference. Creating an open learning environment within nature is essential for an art institution, along with wall-bounded classrooms.

Faculty of Fine Arts is a part of Jahangir Nagar University, and the site as well. Muzharul Islam designed the original masterplan, but that has not been followed in most cases. The site is somewhat contoured and surrounded by water bodies at the south, east, and west. The site’s edges have green vegetation and plantation, and the goal was to incorporate the existing trees instead of cutting them. The site was east-west elongated, which creates a design challenge for a tropical climate like Bangladesh. To cut the glare of direct sunlight and reduce heat gain, the buildings’ masses have been designed north-south orientated as lighting is a vital element for art learning classrooms. All the masses are joined with a connecting corridor, which connects all masses and separates the functions. Also, to minimize the sunlight glare, roofs are extended on both sides of classrooms; this also works as a circulation corridor and in time of need that can be used as extended classrooms. While zoning the programs, public functions are kept in front, and private functions like classrooms were taken to the back. The department that requires services from outside that were also kept close to the roadside. The ground floor wall had longer sides on the east-west side that reduces heat gain. Full height bi-fold windows were incorporated so that when the windows are open, the ground floors are visually open and can be seen from one end to another end. The design tried to achieve a climatically solved must needed functions blended with the exiting ecology of that site.

Incremental Housing For Duaripara Slum

Academic project

Course: Studio IX

Timeline: 2013

Duration: 8 weeks

Location: Mirpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Course Teacher: Shaila Joarder

Duaripara is old and one of the biggest low-cost housing areas, also known as slum settlement located in the north-west part (under Mirpur Thana) of Dhaka city, capital of Bangladesh. The present living situation of this settlement suffers from the congestion of residents, unorganized planning condition, inadequate accommodation, limited access to basic utilities, safe water and sanitation, lack of proper waste management system, less green and vegetation and finally bad air quality. The goal of this project is to design and develop an Incremental housing environment and guide the housing society to become more sustainable.

The proposed housing development will improve the problems which this settlement currently suffers from. Improvement will take place in living conditions, sanitation, utilities, surrounding environment, and finally through this development sustainable living can be achieved. The development will introduce the idea of a new adaptable, affordable and sustainable housing design and development which will be beneficial not only for Duaripara but also for other low cost housing settlements.

Corrogated Sheet

Styrofoam

Hollow brick Wall

2” Slab Beam

8”x16”x8” Brick Blocks

Rebuilding Ramu Shima Bihara

Academic project

Course: Studio VII

Timeline: 2012

Duration: 4 weeks

Location: Ramu, Cox’s Bazar, Chittagong, Bangladesh

Course Teacher: Ismat Hossain, Md Rabiul Islam

The reimagining of “Ramu Shima Bihara” following its tragic destruction in 2012 embodies a harmonious fusion of resilience, spirituality, and cultural preservation. Inspired by the timeless symbolism of the Buddhist tradition, the conceptual framework revolves around the sacred “Dharma Wheel,” serving as a guiding principle for the architectural revival. Embracing the essence of minimalism, the design cherishes simplicity and austerity, reflecting the devout lifestyle of the Buddhist monks. Central to the vision is the integration of a serene lotus pond, symbolizing purity and enlightenment, enveloping the main shrine and remnants of the ancient structures in a tranquil embrace. Furthermore, the nurturing presence of a majestic “Buddhi Tree” invites contemplation and introspection, offering a sanctuary for meditation and spiritual growth. Through thoughtful consideration of Eastern aesthetics and luminosity, the design envisions a sanctuary that not only honors the sanctity of the past but also fosters a profound connection with the present moment.

Nature Interpretation Center

Academic project

Course: Studio VII

Timeline: 2012

Duration: 4 weeks

Location: Karamjal, Sundarban, Khulna, Bangladesh

Course Teacher: Ismat Hossaint

The architectural design concept for the nature interpretation center at Karamjal, nestled within the vast expanse of the Sundarban mangrove forest, embraces the intrinsic ecological significance of its surroundings. Faced with the challenge of integrating human infrastructure into this delicate ecosystem, our approach prioritizes harmony and minimal intrusion. Elevated above the ground, the structure maintains a respectful distance from the forest floor, preserving the natural habitat and ensuring the unhindered movement of wildlife. Embracing a philosophy of restraint, the design emphasizes functionality over excess, with every element meticulously considered to minimize impact while providing essential support for the adjacent crocodile breeding center. Through thoughtful integration and sustainable practices, the center serves as a beacon of coexistence between man and nature, honoring the majestic beauty and ecological richness of the Sundarban.

Md Mostasim Billah

mbillah@uwm.edu

billahbd71@gmail.com