AMI,headquarters,kakrail,dhaka
status:competition entry,2013
total FAR included area=11650 sqm
total BUA=18350 sqm
ANJUMAN MUFIDUL ISLAM (AMI) HEADQUARTERS,KAKRAIL
“-A goodly word like a goodly tree, whose root is firmly fixed, and its branches (reach) to the heavens”
– Sura Ibraham 14:24
The central space of the project is anticipated to render a similitude between welfare, philanthropy and an affectionate statement & thus, transforming architectural space in a way that caters not only simplicity & openness, but also stands for a much needed ethical & moral conviction regardless of ethnic or social boundaries.
The project was designed keeping in mind a simple, straight forward yet responsive planning & architectural expression that is both contextual & vibrant but drawn ascetically within the conforms of stricture.
To bring in the street inside the building where a large elevated plaza with perceptive features denote rich blend of exterior-interior space was one of the primary objectives of the project. In this way a meaningful connection is portrayed that is lofty yet intensive enough to embody AMI’s vision & activity.
The main public level of the project holds a central court where a solitary tree stands as a metaphor of philanthropy and has a screen of flowing water on front side. This screen …..from a cognitive perspective, pronounces water cascading down from the mosque & library above to the ground level below; it induces spirituality & well-being, thus resembles life in its propagation, vitality & the importance of knowledge in its entirety. It depicts a sanctuary anticipated to enhance a positive ambiance for the users & observers alike.
The building is thought to be an inviting edifice by curving out an active public space from the main volume, which would promote congregation & commerce. The mosque & library held centrally between the two projected volumes emphasize spirituality, knowledge & commonality and also has a fenestration, not dissimilar to screens used in Islamic architecture. This would also bring in a rich interior ambiance for both the spaces as sunlight is fragmented & faceted through it.
Amid the chaos of the adjacent Kakrail node, the building should present a humble yet vibrant entity to the urban fabric. The core system allows airflow to pass through the building thus enhancing cooling while brise-soleils, roof gardens & solid walls (thermal mass) on the east & west further protect it from direct solar heat gain.
The uppermost two floors with roof terrace can be combined to form an exclusive executive space.
The facade is lent back gradually to reduce the vertical impact of the projected volumes as observed from the eye level thus reducing the degree of enclosure.
The structure is R.C.C frame structure having transfer girders starting above of the double height public space giving flexibility to open up more in the public area by discontinuing columns coming from below.
The project as a whole tries to culminate the difficult translation of philanthropy, functionality & commercial potency in to a singular architectural expression.