Revitalizing Shibbari Morh: Design of a Public Hall Complex at Khulna, Bangladesh | Architecture Thesis

Site Context

Located in the centre of Khulna, Bangladesh, Shib Barir Morh is an unique intersection of bustling commercial areas, mixed-use areas, and tranquil residential neighbourhoods. Despite its ideal location close to the renowned City Museum, this area appears fragmented and underutilised, with little connection between the museum and the surrounding neighbourhoods.

The site has the potential to develop into a vibrant urban centre where public life and cultural landmarks coexist seamlessly. By analysing the spatial, social, and cultural facets of Shib Barir Morh, the goal is to transform it into a lively, community-centered space that strengthens Khulna’s sense of identity.

Design Process

Site Analysis and Contextual Study: The initial phase involved a comprehensive study of Shib-bari Morh and its surrounding urban fabric. Located in a rapidly expanding region of Khulna, the site’s close proximity to important landmarks like the divisional museum and a local school offered unique opportunities to reconnect these fragmented spaces. Through contextual analysis, the project determined that Khulna needed a vibrant, easily accessible civic area that would respect its cultural legacy while tackling the problems of uncontrolled urban growth.

Concept Development: Inspired by the vision of a sustainable, community-oriented space, early concept sketches focused on the flow and accessibility between different site functions. Physical barriers between the site, museum, and school were removed to create an open plan that promotes visual coherence and easy movement. The concept places a strong emphasis on inclusivity, with areas designed to interact with people of all ages and backgrounds in a welcoming, green setting that blends in perfectly with Khulna’s urban landscape.

Form and Flow: The site’s free-flowing design prioritizes accessibility, with pathways and open spaces connecting the museum, school, and public hall complex. The removal of restrictive barriers has created a space where people from different walks of life can engage with each other, the museum, and the surrounding amenities. Curved forms and organic pathways soften boundaries, making the space inviting and emphasizing Khulna’s commitment to an environmentally friendly urban design.

Final Outcome

Design and Detailing: The final design of Khulna’s urban core combines historical aesthetics with modern functionality, creating a civic symbol of growth. It features shaded seating areas, green terraces, and play zones for comfort, and open-air structures for accessibility. The design emphasizes inclusivity, providing equal access to all facilities, making it a hub for social and cultural engagement.

Program Integration and Spatial Planning: The Public Hall Complex serves as a multifunctional urban center designed to meet diverse community needs. It features a 500-seat auditorium, digital library, seminar halls, gym, shopping areas, indoor play zone, and a swimming pool. The design also includes rental office spaces to support local businesses and stimulate the economy. Green terraces and sustainable materials promote environmental responsibility, while the plaza with food courts, play areas, shaded seating, and green spaces creates a lively hub for recreation and relaxation.

Sustainability and Economic Planning: Green terraces, native plant landscaping, and permeable materials that reduce urban heat and promote local biodiversity showcase the design’s emphasis on environmental sustainability. Additionally, economic planning focused on ensuring the project’s financial sustainability. This economic foresight allows the complex to remain a vibrant community hub without burdening public funds.

Cultural and Community Engagement: As a new urban hub, the Public Hall Complex is designed to host cultural events and support community involvement. The flexible spaces are suitable for local fairs, art exhibitions, and performances, promoting Khulna’s environmental pledge by focusing on sustainable practices.

Conclusion: This thesis project presents an innovative transformation of the city centre with an emphasis on revitalising and reconnecting the urban fabric to improve accessibility, inclusivity, and community involvement. By converting a previously isolated site—divided by walls and lacking cohesion—into a central green civic centre, the project establishes a space where the whole community can congregate.

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