Threads Of Connection: A Multinational Space For Artisan Revival In Benaroshi Polli | Architecture Thesis

Site Context

Context and Challenges: The site is situated in Mirpur 10, Benaroshi Polli, adjacent to the Paris Canal. Currently, the settlement faces severe spatial and social isolation within the broader urban context, limiting the artisans’ access to both social interaction and economic opportunities. This detachment has serious socio-economic implications, as Benaroshi handloom weavers remain disconnected from local consumer networks. The underlying causes stem from weak spatial connectivity, low permeability, and the absence of strong public and community-oriented infrastructure. Consequently, artisans are deprived of direct market engagement, constraining the development of their craft and the sustainability of their livelihoods.

Program: The project is organized around four primary functional zones — a community park, residential housing, a handloom Benaroshi factory, and integrated shop and showroom spaces. Together, these components aim to elevate the social and economic welfare of the Bihari community while revitalizing the area’s spatial and functional vitality.

Handloom Benaroshi Weaving:  The production of a handloom Benaroshi sari comprises two essential stages: thread preparation and design weaving. The process begins with motif creation — first drawn on graph paper, then translated into punch cards that control the jacquard loom. Simultaneously, silk yarns are degummed, dyed in vivid colors, and interwoven with metallic zari threads of gold or silver to achieve richness and sheen.

During weaving, the jacquard mechanism selectively lifts warp threads, enabling the insertion of supplementary wefts of silk or zari to form intricate motifs while the base weave continues beneath. Once completed, the fabric undergoes meticulous finishing — including trimming, polishing, and stretching — to ensure its signature texture and brilliance.

Design Process

The site is conceived to foster inclusivity and opportunity by ensuring accessibility from all surrounding directions. Public functions are strategically located on the podium level, where visitors can experience live demonstrations of handloom Benaroshi saree weaving. Complementary retail and showroom spaces are integrated within this level to facilitate direct engagement between artisans and consumers, thereby strengthening economic connections and cultural appreciation.

Above the podium, residential units for the weavers are arranged to promote a live–work environment, enhancing both convenience and productivity while preserving the integrity of the craft.

Additionally, a large, accessible community park is introduced as a shared public realm for both local residents and the wider city population. This open green space reinforces inclusivity, recreation, and urban permeability, transforming the site into a vibrant social and cultural hub.

Final Outcome

The project seamlessly weaves community, craft, and culture into an integrated architectural framework. At the ground level, a spacious community park acts as an essential urban breathing space, reconnecting the site with its surrounding fabric through a network of accessible pathways. The park features diverse amenities — including landscaped gardens, children’s play zones, a cycling track, fishing deck, and other recreational facilities — while the revitalized Paris Canal enhances both ecological and experiential value.

The ground floor houses key public functions such as showrooms and retail spaces where authentic Benaroshi sarees are exhibited and sold. Adjacent to these, the handloom factory provides artisans with well-equipped work environments, including designated zones for weaving, embroidery, storage, jacquard card punching, and a cafeteria. Visitors are invited to observe live demonstrations of handloom weaving, fostering a transparent and engaging relationship between makers and consumers.

Above the podium level, residential units offer a healthier and more dignified living environment for the Bihari community. The housing comprises three unit types, each incorporating dedicated service areas to address existing challenges where multiple families share essential facilities like kitchens and toilets. Designed with open and flexible layouts, the floor plans omit permanent internal partitions, allowing residents to customize their living spaces through movable partitions — a reflection of their adaptive spatial practices. Shared corridors and communal amenities further promote interaction and a sense of belonging.

Finally, the rooftop serves as an accessible communal terrace — a serene elevated zone for social engagement, recreation, and collective well-being — completing the project’s vision of an inclusive and vibrant live–work community.

Conclusion: Ultimately, the project unites housing, craft, and community to empower the Bihari artisans and revive the Benaroshi weaving tradition. By integrating living, working, and public spaces, it fosters cultural preservation, social inclusion, and a renewed sense of dignity for the community.

[This Academic Project has been published with text and images submitted by the student]