MIRZA BARI | Trikon Architects

Project Category: Alteration & Extension
Location: North Chashara, Narayanganj, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Build Area: 3,370 sft
Year Designed: 2022-23
Principal Architect: Ar. Shafique Rahman (MIAB)
Design Team: Shanila Saifullah, Rakib Patwary
Structural Consultant: Eng. Shamsul Alam, Eng. Nazrul Shakil (TDM)
Photography: Junaid Hasan Pranto

Concept:
Mirza Bari is an urban vicinity nestled in the semi-industrial mixed-use zone of Narayanganj, Bangladesh. Like many other vicinities of its age, it has faced the formidable challenges posed by rapid industrialization and urbanization giving rise to various social and cultural issues, including the loss of cultural heritage, social isolation, fragmentation, and the disappearance of green spaces. This has prompted reevaluating the need to preserve heritage, culture, social engagement, and connectivity through the lens of Architectural semiotics. Amidst the chaos that came with the growth of numerous industries, trade centers, and haphazardly developed housing, the city's urban fabric and cultural heritage suffered immensely. Mirza Bari was not an exception to this change.

Dating back to 1894, this historic household has great significance in Narayanganj's history, once belonging to the renowned physician Dr. Mirza. Regrettably, over the years, the younger generations moved away to other cities, leaving it unoccupied. The project's focal point revolved around the meticulous restoration of this two-story family home and its subsequent expansion to accommodate the families of each of the three children of the late Dr. Mirza. With a vision of reuniting the entire family under one roof, the design thoughtfully ensured three separate dwellings with distinct entrances, promoting modern family living while preserving the spirit of a joint family. The family's unwavering commitment to maintaining the existing architectural style while introducing renovations and extensions brought their collective dream to life.

The structural expansion incorporated two steel-structure wings connected to the original brick masonry building. The result was a harmonious union of the extended and pre-existing parts, interweaving shared spaces like circulation corridors, stairs, a courtyard, a common terrace, and a mezzanine space enabling 3 families to live together. his thoughtful architectural arrangement now accommodates three families together and grants each family their own private space, while the shared courtyard brings everyone together under the open sky. The design was crafted to provide controlled separations when needed, yet enabling reconnection as desired, fostering a deep sense of communal living.

The old structure was constructed with brick masonry walls with the rafter-purlin roof structure. But the existing structure was too weak to hold the new extension. Therefore, the retrofitting structural system of masonry and steel frame was adopted for the extension parts where the main masonry structure was framed with structural steel beams and columns to increase constructional rigidity. Fenestration played a crucial role in revitalizing the building; carefully designed perforations and enlarged window sizes allow ample airflow and natural light to permeate the spaces. The classical-style fenestrations were meticulously preserved, as a nod to the cherished historical details.

Maintaining the courtyard was a pivotal aspect of the extension, a task made challenging by the limited and congested site. However, with utmost care, an existing Mahogany tree was retained, becoming the heart of the rejuvenated courtyard. Interactive family spaces thoughtfully designed around this central space ensure the courtyard remains a cherished location, evoking nostalgic memories.

The architectural significance of Mirza Bari is evident in its fusion of colonial and Roman archways with keystones, showcasing the family's cultural preferences. Carefully selected textures and materials bridge the gap between tradition and modernity. The rough texture of the concrete finish on the blocks and the rough con-mix cement exterior wall adds a rustic touch manifesting a rawness while the neutral colors capture the essence of traditional style. Additionally, the bright and warm colors in the interiors not only balance the rawness but also symbolize the unity of the family.

Perforated screen facades, crafted from concrete brick blocks, separate distinct zones, providing privacy while maintaining essential ventilation, critical in the tropical climate. The spatial distribution of new and old functions has been adjusted in a sequential way so that the living condition can be upgraded for the occupants. This deliberate arrangement of spaces not only elevates the living environment but also fosters a harmonious coexistence between the old and the new.

A double-height space at the staircase, adorned with linear panels of exposed brick and glass windows, exudes a grand aura, reminiscent of times past. The connected corridor between existing and extended parts features an iron cast railing and pivoted screen windows, echoing the atmosphere of an old loggia space.

In summary, Mirza Bari beautifully exemplifies the harmonious union of heritage and modernity, showcasing how thoughtful architecture can breathe life back into cultural treasures while adapting to the ever-changing demands of a dynamic city. The preservation of the courtyard and integration of open-to-sky spaces have revived the cultural heritage, creating a sanctuary that pays tribute to its rich past while embracing the opportunities of the future. This transformation infuses new vitality into the beloved site, establishing it as a haven where the essence of history gracefully connects with the promise of tomorrow.