Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture

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Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture

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  • Project Name: Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub
  • Student Name: Rajoana Islam
  • Softwares/Plugins: AutoCAD , SketchUp , D5 Render , Adobe Photoshop , Autodesk Revit
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Excerpt: ‘Revival of Muslin’ is an architecture thesis by Rajoana Islam from the ‘Faculty of Architecture and Planning – Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology (AUST).’ The project aims to revive Bengal muslin as a living cultural and economic heritage by creating a dedicated center for research, training, weaving, and public engagement. It seeks to support local artisans, preserve traditional knowledge, integrate modern technology, and establish sustainable, climate-responsive conditions for producing high-quality muslin.

Introduction: “Lighter than air, a fabric so fine that you could fit it through a matchbox—such goes the legend of Bengal Muslin.” The “Revival of Muslin” project aims to reinvigorate the traditional art of muslin weaving by establishing a state-of-the-art training and research hub in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This facility is designed to blend historical craftsmanship with modern innovation, supporting local artisans and promoting sustainable practices.

The demand for Bengal muslin declined in the 19th century due to factors like the Industrial Revolution and stories of brutal methods allegedly employed by the British to stop production, including cutting weavers’ fingers. After 200 years, local artisans and the Bangladesh government aim to restore this rich heritage.

Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Background Study

But creating high-quality muslin requires meticulous attention to specific environmental and technical criteria due to the delicate and intricate nature of the fabric. One of the essential conditions for muslin production is maintaining a humidity level of 60-70% to increase the elasticity of cotton fibers and prevent breakage. Moreover, the yarn is so thin that it is nearly invisible to the naked eye under standard lighting conditions. And integrating advanced research with traditional weaving workshops has been challenging, but adhering to these criteria can revive and sustain the ancient art, preserving its legendary quality and beauty.

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Site Context

Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Site Location
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Site Surroundings
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Site Surroundings
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Site Surroundings

Sonargaon is one of the old capitals of the historic region of Bengal and was an administrative center of eastern Bengal.  It corresponds to the Sonargaon Upazila of Narayanganj District in Dhaka Division. It was also a river port. It’s hinterland was the center of the muslin trade in Bengal, with a large population of weavers and artisans.

Design Process

Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Concept Development
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Massing Development

The design process began by exploring the historical significance and unique production requirements of Bengal muslin. The project was developed around the journey of muslin—from cotton cultivation and research to weaving, learning, exhibition, and public engagement. This process informed the spatial organization and architectural form, creating a connection between traditional craftsmanship, contemporary research, and public interaction. The result is an integrated environment that supports the production, learning, and revival of Bengal muslin.

Final Outcome

Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Floor Plan
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Elevation and Section
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Exploded Diagram

The project incorporates sustainable and climate-responsive strategies to create an optimal environment for muslin production. Locally sourced clay bricks provide thermal mass, while polystyrene insulation reduces heat transfer and energy consumption.

Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Nature-integrated Muslin Production Processing Zone
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Shaded Walkways
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Drying Zone

Vaulted roofs enhance natural lighting and support passive cooling, while advanced humidification systems maintain the required 60–70% humidity for high-quality weaving. Rainwater harvesting and water-recycling systems reduce freshwater consumption and wastewater discharge, while solar panels provide clean, renewable energy and lower the project’s overall environmental impact.

Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Breakout Space
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Weaving Zone
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Dyeing Zone
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Exhibition and Retail Space

The final design establishes a contemporary architectural identity rooted in the cultural legacy of Bengal muslin. Through its spatial experience, environmental responsiveness, and connection to the surrounding context, the project creates a setting where heritage is not merely preserved but given a renewed presence. The architecture ultimately becomes a symbol of continuity—linking a remarkable past with new possibilities and allowing the legacy of Bengal muslin to remain relevant in the future.

Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Workshop Corridor
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Workshop Courtyard
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Cotton Field

Conclusion: The project revives Bengal muslin by combining traditional craftsmanship, contemporary research, and sustainable architecture. Rooted in Sonargaon’s heritage, it creates a climate-responsive environment that supports weaving, learning, and innovation, ensuring this delicate cultural legacy continues into the future.

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

Site Context

Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture

Design Process

Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture

Final Outcome

Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture
Revival of Muslin: Weaving Tradition and Innovation Through A Research and Training Hub | Bachelors Design Thesis on Cultural Architecture

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