Sustainable humanitarian development

Sustainable Humanitarian Development

Md.Imrul Kayes (Organizer and Representative of Architecture for Humanity‐Dhaka, Bangladesh)

Every person who has been producing architecture for years has his own unique way of giving emphasis to certain features of a design, in terms of form, technique, material, time period, region etc. When this amalgamates with one’s personal will, state of mind, it leads to a simple or a complex synthesis, called the ‘Architectural Style’. In simple words, it can be said that style evolves from designer’s personal ethics or external influences. It purely relates with the architectural value that one has and without which ‘style will be some sort of a surface finish that can be applied to any building and even scraped off and changed if necessary’‐Hasan Fathy. Those values or intentions have differed (aesthetically, socially, environmentally, traditionally etc.) between “architectural movements” such as modernism, post modernism, deconstructivism, post structuralism, neo classicism, new expressism, super modernism etc. “Value” is everything to a creator. It is similar to the hand‐made and machine‐made product. A workman who controls a machine in a factory puts nothing of himself into the things he makes in the machine. The product is therefore, identical, impersonal and unrewarding. Hand‐made products appeal to us because they express the mood of the craftsmen. Each irregularity, oddity, difference is the result of the decision made at the moment of manufacture. The product is the witness of the constant interaction of the man, his thought, tradition, craftsmanship, material. Thus the person who uses the object understands this and the object in return adds more

value to the surrounding. So “choosing” or “realizing” these terms can make a big difference. But how does it develop within human psychology or into one’s mind? The obvious answer might be through “school” or “society”.

School uses the works of the masters as a source of inspiration and motivation. So there is no way to avoid their influences. As for society, it has great influence of “pride” and “economy”. There exist also these invisible social boundaries, distinguished as the “lower” and “upper”, from pre history till this present time, in every society. Now question may arise‐ did the masters ever try to blur these boundaries? If not, then, how can one say “the wrong” in education to develop the concept of “value” in one’s mind? From Neolithic to super modernism these boundaries have been increasing as a result of our ‘race against time’ leading the world into a “humanitarian crisis”. In today’s world there is no limitation of “innovation” and “technology”. On the race track of “globalization” and “industrialization” those societies, who can not follow the speed of western world are falling behind day by day. Their roots are not strong enough to hold them as they are trying to catch the time and speed, thus uprooting themselves and resulting in an unbalanced society. In that connection some society and their development are also in “identity crisis”. An example is the Shanghai city and its value that co‐exist just beside the thousands of years old Chinese civilization, without any relationship. Thus this particular “race against time” is creating a gap into the society which is totally controlled by economy.

Eventually the “value”, “style”, “movement” in today’s architecture is simultaneously running on a similar track. As a result of this, modern architects are more concerned with the building and construction of eye catching structure. This is having a drastic impact on the people who are behind, in the race and are seeking for a living shelter. In spite of all their efforts, their safety precautions are also at risk due to the lack of concern, on the architect’s and planner’s part, while on the other hand the traditional and cultural ways, techniques are getting washed away due to the priority given more to keep on track, in order to compete with the western world. They crave for show and modernity so much that they deny, even discard their values for something cheap and ugly. They do not realize what they have lost and therefore never rectify it. The social ties are therefore torn and individuals are forced to begin all over again in a new, alien environment. All these things are being overlooked and neglected. In other words they are deprived of their “human rights” and of the earning they actually deserve to get.

This is indicated by the debate in architecture, focusing on whether buildings should harmonize with pride and economy or should be an expression of its time. And today’s time reminds me everyday that, for more than billions of people, sustainable design is not a luxury. It is a matter of survival. In the past no one exemplified the power of design to uplift and inspire a society with the consideration of human rights.

So now, being a fresh graduate architect, “value” is a big question to me. I have been pondering upon this question ever since I witnessed the struggle of the poor, to meet the bare necessities, in my very own country.

The rural people sell all their property to make a new start in the city but their hopes get shattered because of the harsh reality. With no job, no home, they become even poorer when they come to the city. We show our sympathy and yet we do nothing for them. All we ever did was label them as the informal sector. So out of desperation they found grey spaces, places which are not occupied or left unused and used it to provide them with employment and accommodation for their families. These people, out of their need/ crisis, unknowingly have given wonderful solution to their problems. All they now want is consideration, support and acknowledgement from the authority, responsible people like us‐ the architects, urban planners etc. Their financial conditions are not strong enough to support them. The spaces in which they live are often unhealthy and unhygienic. Also with the present energy crisis the prices of all goods have gone up. A good portion of their income goes for energy consumption making it even more difficult for them to sustain. I believe there are a lot of scopes for improvement. As a first step if these spaces/land could be legalized, it could contribute to poverty reduction and enrich the social interaction in that area. Careful designing of these spaces, considering the climatic factors would help to improve their living and health conditions.

Introducing alternative energy use –e.g. solar panels, rain water harvesting etc. in their business set‐up would help to overcome the energy crisis. They would be able to save their money and increase their monthly income. These aspects were recently implemented and made possible in the projects “Energy efficient mobile tea‐stall” and “Life in 1.5’ x 30’. Again in our rural areas, the local builders have been wisely and quietly constructing homes for peasants for centuries. It is not possible to transform the country side, the standard of living associated with great complexity and delicacy from office desks. One has to live with them, to make their homes in the country, to devote their lives to practical work, on the spot, in order to work for the improvement of the rural life. Thus, the local, traditional, indigenous knowledge could be further enriched if modern knowledge were exchanged through participatory works. This would not only be a good learning process for the local builders but also the concerned architect would learn to respect the crafts, who with their school‐learned ideas could never imagine that such creation could be possible. So, this approach of enhancing the education would help to spread the knowledge. (See project “Improved design and construction of rural housing Noakhali” and “The MUD house in Bangladesh”). This could be an effective method for countries like ours, where due to the present climate crisis has been constantly encountering calamities. A project at Noakhali“Improved design and construction of rural housing”, have made an attempt to reduce the risk of death and destruction by strengthening and improving the local techniques.

We cannot cure the crisis at one go but creating a route of sustainability in the community development approach could be a start. Lastly, like many, our country is going through a similar crisis. It should be noted that any man’s mind is so complex that his decisions are always unique. His reaction to things around him is his alone. If our dealings with men are not properly addressed then we will destroy the unique features of each. “ The cultural decay starts with the individual himself, who is confronted with choices that he is not equipped to make and we must cure it at this stage’‐ Architecture for poor, Hasan Fathy. For this we should try to integrate rural and urban development through participatory research work. In this way it would be possible to diagnose the disease, understand the root cause of the crisis and attack it at the roots. In the end, I believe that for developing countries like ours, sustainable humanitarian development is very much essential which could be made possible if we start to rethink the “value” in architecture and its impact on the society for • • • • • • •

Poverty reduction, Enhancing education, Improve health condition, Energy use, Reduce the risk of death and destruction from disasters.

Integrate rural and urban development through Participatory work.

Create the root of Sustainability in community development approach.

All these points are taken into consideration in my architectural thoughts. An attempt was made to implement these points in several projects, trying to set an example of sustainable humanitarian practice and how local skills can be used, thus, showing a promising future for the developing communities. In Bangladesh, the scope for architects to work in the developing sector or research work is very limited in terms of funding. I am very grateful to Ar.Anna Heringer (Assistant Professor, Dept. of architecture Linz University. Linz, Austria), Khondaker Hasibul Kabir (Lecturer, Dept. of Architecture, BRAC University), Dr. Fuad H. Mallick (Professor and chairperson, Dept. of architecture, BRAC University) and Dr.Saiful Haque (Professor, Dept. of Ecology, Dhaka national University) for giving me the opportunity to work with them and help me to create my architectural ideology through different projects on different issues.

Project 1: Hand made, the MUD house in Bangladesh Project 2: Improved design and construction of rural housing, Noakhali Project 3: Life in 1.5’ x 30’, Changing SEMIOTICS of urban grey space Project 4: Low cost, Energy efficient mobile tea‐stall.

[For detail description, see project write‐up stated below]

Earthen building

Project name: HOMEmade- family houses Client : Shepal Depsharma, Hemonto Ray, and Rahini Ray Chief architect: Anna Heringer Project and design team :Students of BRAC University Dhaka, Bangladesh (16 weeks): Imrul Kayes,Adrita Anwar, Shoeb Al-Rahe,Tanmay Chakrabarty, Omar Faruque, Majeda Khatun, Gazi Fazle Rahim, Suvashis Saha .Students of University of Art and Industrial Design Linz, Austria, studio BASEhabitat (Three weeks): Cornelia Bräuer, Katharina Doblinger, Belinda Meinhard, Verena Schoissengeyr,Anna Wolf Supervision design: Anna Heringer, Khondaker Hasibul Kabir Supervision of site: Stefan Neumann, Montu Ram Saw, Azit Ray, Anna Heringer,Khondaker Hasibul Kabir and the students Structural engineering : Stefan Neumann Consultancy: Martin Rauch (earthen structures), Oskar Pankratz (energy concept) write up prepard by : Md.Imrul Kayes and Rabeya rahman

handmade , the MUD house in Bangladesh

Client : Shepal Depsharma

stair and veranda showing earthen & bamboo construction hand made mud house

Located in the midst of the rural setting is a two-storey mud-house which is part of the extension project of hand-made Meti-school (Aga Khan Award 2007), Rudropur, Bangladesh.

This was hand-built, including two other houses.

All these three houses were the result of a hands-on workshop for students and young architects conducted in a rural area of Bangladesh. The team included local laborers, students from BRAC University (I was one of them and particularly responsible for this building from the design phase to construction) and University of LINZ, Austria and Architect Anna Heringer as the Project leader. “The intention was to create an inter-cultural exchange with the expectation that the young architects will be able to carry their knowledge and skills to other regions of Bangladesh and the trained labor will be able to use their skills to build other modern mud houses in the region”-Ar. Anna Heringer. Here, although traditional means of construction and local materials e.g. mud and bamboo were used but these conventional techniques were further improved with the combination of modern

knowledge.Almost all the works were done by hands without the use of any technical machinery except for the mixing of the earth, water and rice straw mixture for which cows were used. It was observed that the reason for the short lifespan ( 8-10 years ) of local buildings was that, usually, it did not have foundation or damp-proof course. So, along with structural stability the local earthen construction techniques were improved to provide protection against rain and rising damp. Also to help prevent rats and other vermin from nesting in the walls, brickwork masonry foundation, the PE damp proof course, compacting methods, and Ferro cement technique were used. The earthen ground floor was made using a technique similar to cob-walling and earth was heaped in layers for wall construction. As each layer dried the surface of the earthen walls were cut flat with a sharp spade. The walls are left bare on the outside while on the inside they have been plastered with clay plaster and lightcolored white mud. The floor is filled with a twolayer of straw-earth mixture once the bamboo boards are laid on the central layer.

Room with internal white clay plaster.The ceiling consists of bamboo beams and bamboo boards are laid on the central layer.The floor is filled with earth mix

View from the neighborhood courtyard.The bamboo screen project outwards beyond the building’s perimeter providing a wide green covered screen

Earthen building

Cavespace

Cavespace

Cavespace

Floor area: about 45 m2 Per Building costs: 1200 € Thermal performance: no heating Design date: September 2007 Completion date: April 2008

sectional elevation and plan

Thus, during the whole design, construction process and in all other aspects the involvement of the occupants/owner was so exemplifying that it has set example of how architecture can provide a lasting contribution of local communities in developing area. This project has given me the opportunity to learn a lot, for example- “although local materials are being used but by taking account of the visual perception of materials, its texture, way of using this materials, use of alternative energy (present energy crisis) it is also possible to design a building that captures the local, traditional essence, which is appropriate for our context, while giving a new language with the improved technique to our traditional architecture in terms of environmental sustainability”. So all that remains to be said is that, the purpose of constructing such a building was to strengthen the infrastructure, setting an example of how local skills can be used and therefore showing a promising future for the rural region.

All photos & drawing : Imrul kayes

The ceiling consists of a double layer of thick bamboo beams arranged perpendicularly to one another. The skeleton of the roof, made from the bamboo framework is firmly anchored with the wall beneath. Thus, right when the prevailing trend of using energy-intensive and more expensive construction methods e.g. concrete and masonry is conquering many parts of the world as well as this region, this method of using locally available materials and techniques were in strong contrasts. Finally, each of the rooms has its own openings along with ventilators, made from hand-made terracotta with respect to the climate. A bamboo supported staircase has its steps made from wood, mud while a nice sitting place adorns the first floor landing. Protruding out from the upper living room is a mini verandah embellished with beautiful bamboo and wooden works by our local craftsmen. A strip of bamboo screen clad the building’s perimeter which will eventually provide a wide green screen to cover and protect the mud surface against strong rainfall while the corrugated pitch roof rests on top of the mud structure like a hat.

local craftsmanship (hand made terracotta, bamboo made screen, wooden window and Cob walling built on top of a brick foundation and damp proof course. The wall surfaces are later trimmed flat using sharp flat spades.

Other’s two building of this project Project name: HOMEmade- family houses Client : Shepal Depsharma, Hemonto Ray, and Rahini Ray Chief architect: Anna Heringer Project and design team :Students of BRAC University Dhaka, Bangladesh (16 weeks): Adrita Anwar, Shoeb Al-Rahe,Tanmay Chakrabarty, Omar Faruque, Majeda Khatun, Imrul Kayes, Gazi Fazle Rahim, Suvashis Saha .Students of University of Art and Industrial Design Linz, Austria, studio BASEhabitat (Three weeks): Cornelia Bräuer, Katharina Doblinger, Belinda Meinhard, Verena Schoissengeyr,Anna Wolf Supervision design: Anna Heringer, Khondaker Hasibul Kabir Supervision of site: Stefan Neumann, Montu Ram Saw, Azit Ray, Anna Heringer,Khondaker Hasibul Kabir and the students Structural engineering : Stefan Neumann Consultancy: Martin Rauch (earthen structures), Oskar Pankratz (energy concept)

handmade , the MUD house in Bangladesh Client : Hemonto Ray

All photos : Md. Imrul Kayes

handmade , the MUD house in Bangladesh Client : Rahini Ray

Improved rural house

Reasearch title: Improved design and construction of Rural Housing in Noakhali,Bangladesh.

Funding by: NCAP Client : IUCN Project leader: Dr.Fuad Hassan Mallick Project and design team : K.H.Kobir, Md.Aminur Rahman,Md. Imrul Kayes, Rabeya Rahman(Students of BRAC University) and Ajit Roy, Supervision of design: Khondaker Hasibul Kabir Supervision of site: Azit Ray,K.H. Kabir,Md. Imrul Kayes,Rabeya Rahman Consultancy: Department of Architecture and PPDM, Brac University.

Construction: March 2008 - May 2008 write up prepard by : Md.Imrul Kayes and Rabeya rahman

handmade , Improved design and construction of rural housing Noakhali.

top existing structural element, participatory workshop, improved design and maximum use of space.

Our country, especially the coastal regions of Bangladesh has evolved in the face of repetitious calamities i.e. most regularly hit by cyclones. It is with this in mind that IUCN initiated a project, at Noakhali, on March 2008, that focuses on the current ‘CLIMATE CRISIS’ and building of stronger, safer local houses which will respect local space use pattern for men and women, local building techniques, craftsmanship and material, energy efficiency, cost effectiveness etc. The team involved several senior and junior architects of BRAC University, architecture department and experts from PPDM, BRAC University and several local builders (masons and carpenters).A preliminary site survey was done to have a better understanding of the local houses- its building techniques, craftsmanship which reflects its strength, weakness, opportunities and threats.

This was followed by a workshop, facilitated by the BRAC team and participated by local builders (carpenters, masons, mud-cutter etc). The aim of the study was to find ways to make traditional structures more cyclone resistant and less prone to wind damage by having a better understanding of the local houses, the process of building and maintaining these houses in the face of frequent cyclonic storms and storm surges.

Information were gathered on shared knowledge

and collective experiences of the people in all aspects of house building helped to find options and ways of strengthening roof, walls, plinth, the technical details of structural supports along with preparing more appropriate options for core house and its estimated cost.The feasibility of the gathered knowledge was put to test by selecting four homesteads of which- demonstration house will be constructed on two sites while repair/strengthening work shall be done on two other existing houses. Factors like-economic condition of the beneficiaries, land entitlement, location considering vulnerability and in terms of promoting such houses, adequate dispersal etc were considered during the selection process. The Beneficiaries took part in construction process along with the design team with the understanding that later they will design and construct other necessary spaces by themselves. The design and construction process was responsive to the actual needs of the owner and his family. This required the users’ involvement in the whole process of the physical planning i.e. they determine its size according to their family size and affordability, construct their own houses and decide what materials to use. From gender perspective, role of woman was considered as much vital, in housing and planning level as that of a man. Therefore,

An optimize use of space is evident i.e. even the peak of the roof is used for storage and children play area and also can be use as a shelter during cyclone .

interior view of the living room with sufficient amount of natural light and ventilation, the house not only become a safe haven for the humans but also for the pigeons

Improved rural house

living area,storage

main living area

entry

plan

Front Elevation storage emergency shelter,living

living area

sectional elevation and plan

some technical detail that had been developed.ie:cement stabilized plinth. improved bracing, joinery detail etc.

and storage

main living

area

section

the presence and the opinions of the owner’s wife were considered. Thus to make the project successful bottom-up approach was encouraged allowing the non-professionals to participate actively, making them feel confident and enabling the fusion of the traditional and professional knowledge. It was found that the plinth was made of mud, which erodes when comes in contact with water. The wooden posts do not go deep into the soil and the whole structure of the house sits on the plinth without any anchorage in the ground. Purlins on lower edges of roof were not closely spaced so that heavy wind can easily blow away the CI sheets. Therefore, attention was given to strengthen the house. The building process began by erecting the structure i.e. frame of the building which is actually a combination of wooden and RCC posts. An inverted T-shaped RCC bases (bolli) were used embedded into the plinth and connected with lower horizontal frame for safety option to prevent the house from being blown by wind.

Another option was the concrete stump (Kaatla).Both of these were used to protect the wooden frame/posts, forming composite joints and being placed alternatively for anchorage into the ground and as a safety option to prevent the house from being blown away by wind.

Both vertical and horizontal cross-bracing were used to give structural stability. The roof was constructed using improved joineries and purlins, on the lower edges of roof are closely spaced to prevent heavy wind from blowing away the CI sheets. The wall panels were a combination of CI sheet at the bottom (recycled from the previous house) and bamboo mat at the top. Finally the mud plinth was cement stabilized (mixed5% cement+mud then rammed) to prevent it from eroding. An optimize use of space is evident i.e. even the peak of the roof is used for storage and children play area. Thus, not only did it become a safe haven for the humans but also the pigeons for which a small shed made built. In the end with limited construction timeframe, the project was finally completed in May 2008 with the participation of the beneficiaries (men and women). Thus selecting the building material, buying it, designing the space according to requirements, doing the construction work gave them a sense of belonging and helped to develop responsibility towards maintaining the house enabling them to eventually call it their ‘home’.

introducing horizontal bracing at the corner. joint detail for connecting roof and the beam with metal bar,and for extra safety tying those part with rope.

introducing cross bracing and using sustainable building material like bamboo mat on the exterior surface with perforated character for ventilation.

All photos& drawing: Md.Imrul kayes

Floor area: 19.5 m2 Building costs: 680 € Building costs/m2: 35 €/m2 Thermal performance: no heating

Changing SEMIOTICS

There are millions of Example of similar type of space in Dhaka.

Project name: LIFE in 1.5’ x 30’ Client : Imran and Akhtar hossain gazi Project leader: Md.Imrul Kayes Funding : Trii , Landscape design consultant, Student of BRAC University,Bangladesh Project and design team : Students of BRAC University Dhaka, Bangladesh : Md.Imrul Kayes,Fardous habib khan Supervision of design: Khondaker Hasibul Kabir Supervision of site: Md.Imrul Kayes,Fardous habib khan,Abdun naim, Kaisar hossain, Mr. Roni, Md.Zahid hasan Consultancy: Abdun naim (Landscape design), Dr. Saiful haq(energy concept),Mr. Roni (iron work) write up prepard by : Md.Imrul Kayes, Rabeya rahman

previous perspective

present perspective

Life in 1.5’ x 30’ Changing SEMIOTICS of urban grey space Client : Imran In the urban fabric, “Grey Spaces” occurs in gaps of what is planned, controlled, financed by authorities or simply built by private developers in irregular or unplanned way. Occupying and setting up small businesses on such land that has remained vacant for a long time or with poor accessibility or space used for dumping waste. Although, the arrangements are often legal or semi-legal but the enterprises produce and distribute legal goods and services. Hence the naming- the ‘Grey Space’. This particular issue is the result of changes in the worldwide economy. This is really about how to deal with globalization and the demands it puts on a city . Although these activities seem trivial, but what they show is a demand to use space, which can be seen as a new form of urban citizenship. This movement is increasing every year but the respective authorities have turned ‘blind eye’ to this growing problem. A widespread misconception exists against this particular economy, related to the underground. However, such attitude is no solution to this emerging problem, as various factors are involved and the problem seems to be worldwide. These grey spaces are growing and seem to be a permanent feature of a city. Factors acting as stimuli are- lack of enough modern job opportunities to absorb surplus labor; slow rate of economic growth or faster rate of population growth. It was found to contain several forms and dimensions.

the colorful background, the vivid color of the products, the passersby wearing bright colors

interior lighting and color

space for green (under construction)

Grey spaces are contingent in nature.

However, In the face of uncertain economic and political conditions, these dynamic developments have an inherent power to change and adapt, for their investment is minimal in the creation of shelters and are responsive to local conditions. An example of such a phenomenon is this project located at Mohakhali, in between two building with 1.5’ at the narrowest, 3.6’ at the widest and 30’ in length. The story of this grey space began when a 12 year old boy, ran off to city from his hometown for survive which is a common phenomenon of a developing nation. The living condition is very poor because of two solid walls on the longer directions making the interior space dark, gloomy and congested. Even then, they are living here for more then 15 years because they have perceived several advantages for being into this place including their economic development.

My intention was to create a new semiotics of these types of space where one family can survive with better living condition and will be very meaningful for the micro entrepreneurs.

living space at the top level

promotion of urban grey space

Wall of 20 storied building

Floor area: 14 m2 Building costs: 250 € Alternative energy : 250 € Construction: april 2008 -may 2008

Connecting all the spaces both visually and physically broke the tunnel effect,allowing the space to flow- thus, giving a sense of a single space. Also ensuring natural light, ventilation, use of alternative energy (present energy crisis) creates the space more meaningful. The semiotic of the space is such that it not only denotes the functions but connotes symbols such as- home, a sense of belonging. Such notion has made many spectators’ remark‘Arey eta to ekta bari!’ (Wow! This is a twostoried house!).To return the lost green a 1.5’X5’ of space was put aside but this decision was even more justified when a hidden talent of my client was revealed i.e. he can play three different instruments. Thus a space with a touch of green and water would surely increase his artistic ability apart from contributing to the local ecology! Although these people have been living as a parasite for all these years but it was my desire to let them have the technology of conserving energy i.e. solar water heater. One other issue considered is rain water harvesting-which is done in a small scale to run a small aquarium. Lastly, a lot of vibrant colors are used on the exterior- so that the colorful background, the vivid color of the products, the passersby wearing bright colors (as preferred by our society & culture.)

hands on project and its construction process

all forms an ever-changing,dynamic collage.

Collected Recycled timbers, plywood panels, bamboo mats from the students of architecture department, are mainly used for this project.

Corrugated roofing sheets andsome metal angle are also collected from the surrounding area. In all aspects an attempt is made to free them from the oppositions imposed by the society, authority and re-construct a whole new place with a new semiotics- which they can identify it as theirs without any fear or hesitation. So despite the continuing debates about its development it is increasingly being recognized as a key to promoting growth and/or reducing poverty. It provides income for the poor and a safety net in times of crisis. This small scale enterprise that thrives in these grey spaces contributes in the social process by increasing the interaction between people and using the urban unused spaces. Thus, making the neighborhood more attractive and also, redefining the public spaces, which are closely related to their activities. As a concluding remark I want to say “those occupants are actually helping to restructure and revitalize our cities and I don't think those spaces are dead, it’s just changing. They activate the dead space, and break down boundaries between public and private. The blurring of boundaries leads to new ways of conceptualizing these areas”. .....................................Md.Imrul kayes

ensuring natural light and ventilation ,flow of space and its overall indoor quality

All photos & drawing :Md. Imrul kayes

Analytical section and plan

Client and funding : BRAC TARC Concept :Md.Imrul Kayes.

Project supervision: Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick.

Design and Supervision : Md.Imrul Kayes, Dr.Saiful Haq ,Abdun Naime Consultancy (energy concept):Dr. Saiful Haq. Special thanks: K.H.Kabir , Md. Shajedul Hossain. write up prepard by : Md.Imrul Kayes, Rabeya rahman

low cost , Energy efficient mobile TEA-STALL for Bangladesh Client : BRAC TARC One of the wonderful qualities about Bangladeshi people is that they enjoy other people’s company, gossiping with family-members, friends or even strangers. Unfortunately with rapid urbanization, means of recreation have become quite limited which have also reduced social interactions. However, tea stalls or other such small food stalls, which are one kind of vending, have been attracting people of all ages, religions, class and upbringing, for a while.

Though, unnoticed and often less appreciated but such stalls have been effectively creating public gathering spaces of different dimensions, types and forms for a long time which cannot be compared or even classified with any other public space seen anywhere else in the world.

Ironically, these dynamic developments have evolved in the face of uncertain economic, political conditions and growing problems such as rapid urbanization, poverty, lack of employment etc. In their own way, they have given a wonderful solution for the economic development not only for our country but also for similar situations that persists all over the world.

They not only have ensured employment opportunities for the poor but also fulfill the demand of lower income group and contribute to the overall economy.Saves time and energy consumption from the customers point of view

There are millions of example of such different existing typology .

as they are within easy reach of their home or office. Also there is no gender biasness between men and women since all of them are engaged in these activities. However in order to do that, they have occupied and established their own business on land that has remained vacant for a very long time or with poor accessibility or just beside the road with moving character. So although they have shown a demand to use space but since is it done in an illegal way, they often face eviction. Nonetheless, vending is no trivial matter. They might seem like a minority but it is rather a huge sector. Therefore time has come to seriously deal with this issue. In spite of being ignored and despised by many, this sector was found to have enormous potentials. Close observation revealed that they have the inherent power to fold and unfold in accordance to changing political conditions. Also they have the ability to change and adapt, for their investment is minimal. In other words, these architecture and urbanisms of “necessity� operates with extremely limited material conditions that challenge the professionals such as planners and architects.Inspired by their indigenous knowledge in utilization of space, the design concept of-maximum utilization of minimum space was derived. So the idea formulated was

Urbanization and Grey spaces and activity works symbiotically. these micro-entrepreneurs actually help to restructure and revitalizied our city with the help of minimal resources.

Typology 02 : Plan and elevation

Special feature Solar water heater - 1 gallon 80’C Solar oven Cooling system/ refrigerator The proposed solar system Pop corn machine Expendable and retractable Waste disposal system Paddling system for moving all in one so easy to use and move, also effective for cost minimization.

10. World first mobile vending system with the use of alternative energy.

11. Most advanced technology interms of energy use makes it UNIQUE for the billions of microentrepreneurs around the world.

either recycled or sustainable in nature. Later wood was chosen as the construction material.

Thus, although further improvement will be required for long term operation and system efficiency but the development progress are in initial stage. Micro enterprises have a huge prospect for a developing nation like ours and this project represents the present time and acknowledges the forces acting upon the urban condition. The focus of this project was how the very existence of this informal sector has been threatened. They have been thrown apart and discarded like garbage yet they continue to thrive, fulfilling the basic necessities of our lives and most importantly they contribute to about 60% of a developing nation’s GDP. This module, probably the first mobile vending system in the world makes use of alternative energy and other innovative technology. also an attempt is made to free them from the oppositions imposed by the society, authority and re-construct a new idea for urban planning issue- which they can identify it as theirs without any fear or hesitation. It can be considered as a great introduction for the development of billions of microentrepreneurs both within our country and outside, since vending is an integral part of urban fabric that cannot be ignored nor eliminated. The only remaining to do then is to relocate them or legalize them at certain part of urban areas- so that they can grow in a controlled and planned way.

All photos: Imrul kayes

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that of a structure, retractable in character, i.e., it can be folded to form a compact structure.

Also, based on their ergonomics, energy efficiency, a low-cost structure was to be designed for the BRAC TARC that will be affordable by these vendors. The intention of this experimental project was to demonstrate a possible solution of how different mechanisms can be integrated under a single system/unit which not only will minimize the cost but make it possible those people who are engaged in this profession to earn double then their previous income. Further study on this issue revealed some interesting facts, which are: 1. About 1 million vendors spend 20million Euro/month for making Tea. If this fuel could be reduced then their monthly income will increase by the same amount.

2. These 1 million vendors can reduce 1100 ton carbon emission per month for making Tea by reducing their fuel use.

3. Single Pop-corn machine utilizes 1300w/h of electricity. If Bio-gas is used to run1million machine then 13000mw/h of energy could be saved.Therefore an attempt was made to make use of renewable energy instead of using natural fuel, coal etc. making it unique in terms of environmental sustainability for this sector.

Although it meant that the initial investment will be double the previous one but in the long run the entrepreneurs will be the gainer since it would reduce the monthly fuel consumption.

Also materials to be used are decided to be

Into this developed system there is an integrated Waste collector, Water Recycling system, integrated Solar water heater, Solar Oven, Improved burner and newly develop Motor for Pop corn machine and LEED lights.

low cost emergency housing for SIDR affected area

Location: Funding : Design team: Engineer: Construction:

SIDR effected area,Bangladesh BRAC Ngo BRAC University Architecture Dept.

BRAC University Architecture Dept.

Feb 2008 -June 2008

low cost , appropriate shelter/Housing in SIDR affected areas

participatory workshop and construction process with the involvement of community people.

On November 15th 2007, Cyclone SIDR has left behind a trail of devastation affecting the lives of at least 4 million people. In the aftermath of this disaster BRAC NGO initiated a project, in the coastal areas to provide 1200 emergency shelters in six villages. The government, international organizations and NGOs have been working for quite a while now ‘to give’ shelter to the victims but so far the approach to solve the problem has been quick and efficient but also superficial, often not paying attention to the actual needs of the people. The entire process including beneficiary selection, site location, choice of materials and house construction is decided at the bureaucratic level. So rather than a superficial quick-fix to very deep-rooted problems the design team believes in “sustainability”. Being responsive to that aspect requires the users’ involvement in the whole process .Gender Awareness is another important factor, considered in this project. Thus to make the project successful bottom-up approach was encouraged allowing the non-professionals to participate actively and make them feel confident and enabling the fusion of the traditional and professional knowledge. Based on these decisions a field

study was conducted to understand the typologies and the context since the spatial needs of low-income households are based on family members; occupations; economic activities at home; presents of cattle. socio-cultural norms, space use pattern and their activities were understood by interviewing individually or in groups to identify the building techniques, strengths and weakness of houses,building materials, local builder’s idea about safer houses etc. Several appropriate options for core house were formulated and estimated cost was prepared. These information were further refined through a participatory workshop to exchange knowledge (both local and design team), cross-examine them and transmitting knowledge to the participants (local builders) so that they too can build houses themselves and help more people to try the possibilities discussed. Interacting with the community with regard to find what shall be the appropriate means of construction technique so that strength could be maximized with minimal cost; Local people will take part in the construction process for the core house.

Later they will design and construct other necessary spaces by themselves.

owners of the house who lost everything in SIDR and site is just beside Kuwakata Sea beach ( tourist atraction)..”hope for the life”

View from the neiborhood courtyard. the wooden cross bracing beyond the building’s introduced to improved the detailing. local materials blends with the nature.

low cost emergency housing for SIDR affected area stabilized plinth

4'-9"

motka CI sheet

4" 9'-

6'-1"

living room

wooden rafter

4'-4"

4'-4"

3'-8"

wooden floor

varanda

wooden bracing

10'

2'

concrete post

4'-10"

33°

5"brick layer

4'-10"

4'-9"

wooden post

4'-10"

2'

11" 10'-

GI wire/wooden bracing

wooden post 4"x4"

ground floor plan

concrete post

3'

Floor area: 17 m2 Building costs: 500 â‚Ź Building costs/m2: 29.5 â‚Ź/m2 Total number of house : 1200

4" 4"

sectional elevation and plan

8"

16'

concrete post with ms angle(Katla)

side elevation of each corner are fixed for more support. In most houses purlins on lower edges of roof were not closely spaced so that heavy wind easily blew away the CI sheets So purlins (butti) are placed at close intervals on the lower portion although the spacing may become even as one moves upwards. The number of screw used, can be more at the lower part although the total number of screw used is the same as the conventional roof. Also, tall trees with shallow roots were located at a close distance which got up-rooted and fell upon the house. Therefore, homesteads were carefully landscaped, planting trees at strategic location to weaken storm and tidal surge.

Thus during the implementation process both men and women took part because when a person builds a house, a sense of possession and responsibility develops. So involvements in every steps and finally having a house for the family is a useful experience for the owners. It allows residents to make their own decisions and feels that they own the houses and the maintenance of the houses is their responsibility.

All photos: Imrul kayes

Now the core house concept was a local originality evolved through trials and errors, for centuries. This typology consists of a semi twostoried house with central space around which other spaces/rooms gradually evolved.During the construction process emphasis were given on strengthening plinth using cementstabilization technique since during the time of disaster tidal surge eroded the mud plinths, causing many buildings to fall on its sides. The whole structure of the house sat on plinth without any anchorage in the ground. Wooden posts were common but as a safety option RCC posts were preferred, at least at the corners if not all. An inverted t-shaped RCC bases (bolli) were used embedded into the plinth and connected with lower horizontal frame for safety option to prevent the house from being blown by wind. Another option was the concrete stump (Kaatla). Both of these could be used to protect the wooden frame/posts by forming composite joints. To increase stability and wind resistance of the structural frame, both vertical and horizontal cross-bracing was introduced. Also wooden pieces across the top

some details and the process of the construction. the house is totaly build by hand .

participation of women in the construction process so that they can maintainance the house.

ground floor for the living and uper local craft manship (owner is making rloor for storage and can be use as parforated bamboo made screen an emergency shelter. for the partition wall like behind.

Its time to rethink the “value” in architecture and its impact on the society‐ Md.Imrul Kayes

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Contact information For detail information sees the project description stated above or any other specific project information contact with the project leader of different projects which has been mentioned in the project write‐up.

Ar.Anna Heringer (anna‐heringer@meti‐school.de) Dr. Fuad H Mallick (fuad@bracuniversity.ac.bd) Khondaker Hasibul Kabir(khkabir@bracuniversity.ac.bd) Dr.Saiful Haque(saifulhq@citechco.net) Md.Imrul Kayes(motion_architect@hotmail.com)