Urban Tune-Up : Architectural Packages for Block-Based Rooftop Spaces as Containers of Public Life in Dhaka, Bangladesh | Architecture Thesis on Urban Revitalization

Site Context

The site encompasses the Karwan Bazar-Farmgate area and its surroundings in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This densely populated and heavily built-up region is well-suited for testing the proposed concept. With new Metro stations planned, the area is set to undergo significant transformation, placing it at the heart of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD). Positioned between the Farmgate and Karwan Bazar Metro stations, the site falls within the TOD radius, making it ideal for block-based development. This approach aligns with the government’s Detailed Area Plan (2022-2035), which supports mixed-use redevelopment along the Metro Line, replacing the existing small 2-4-6 story buildings built on smaller plots.

In the past 30 years, Dhaka has lost 66% of its green spaces, exacerbating the urban heat island effect. Currently, 90% of the city is at risk of experiencing severe heat waves. The absence of open spaces and resting areas has created a cramped, suffocating environment, leaving indoor venues like restaurants as the only options for social interaction. However, these spaces cannot offer the same mental health benefits as parks and public areas. The proposed rooftop network aims to tackle Dhaka’s urban challenges, including the heat island effect and waterlogging, while also enhancing social and economic value. This elevated layer introduces a new economic model for the city, transforming underutilized rooftops into vibrant public spaces.

Design Process

The design strategy is built around three key components: a connected rooftop layer for both plot and block developments, architectural packages to enhance rooftops, and an elevated walkway that introduces a new dimension to car-centric Dhaka. Together, these elements form an integrated urban system.

By combining data from local practices, such as Dhaka’s Detailed Area Plan 2022, with international urban design principles, the future development of the site is projected. The master plan for block development, based on unified plots and the surrounding street network, uses parametrically generated block variations to identify the most practical block structure. As a result, the potential rooftop layer is developed, aligned with architectural enhancement packages.

In Dhaka’s densely built urban environment, there is a complete lack of spaces for interaction or greenery, with only brick and concrete structures dominating the landscape. The architectural packages aim to transform these static, permanent buildings by converting barren rooftops into a connected network of public spaces. These packages, made up of primary folly and roof modules, are designed to evolve and adapt to the city’s ever-changing urban landscape. Their configurations are shaped by the specific roof areas, without fixed programs, allowing for flexible uses such as play areas, community events, urban farming, food kiosks, and more.

The proposed walkway between the two metro stations serves as a linear catalyst for public life. It efficiently utilizes the urban gap created by the 20-22 meter high metro piers, running seamlessly through the space. The walkway enhances pedestrian flow, connects with new mixed-use block developments, and alleviates congestion from the stations. While the main road follows a linear path due to its long-distance nature, the walkway is shaped by local dynamics, resulting in a fluid structure that mirrors the organic urban fabric around it.

Final Outcome

Publicly accessible buildings are categorized into three land use patterns: residential, commercial, and mixed-use. These categories are examined in two phases: existing assessment (plot-based) and future projection (block-based). The study explores urban tune-up in both scenarios to determine how architectural packages can be adapted to different rooftop types.

Plot-Based Existing Assessment: In the existing residential buildings, rooftop usage varies depending on the owners. This results in a mix of private and public spaces, with some rooftops accessible to everyone and others restricted to owners. Similarly, commercial buildings might offer public rooftops while retaining private areas restricted to building users.

Block-Based Future Projection: This strategy envisions a future-oriented network of rooftop architecture, where architectural packages are tailored to fit this unified roofscape. The elevated walkway from the MRT station leads to public rooftops, while further into the neighborhood, rooftops transition into private spaces for building owners. This design creates a dynamic layering of urban spaces, fostering both community interaction and individual privacy.

By activating rooftop architecture, Dhaka can better prepare for the future. The lower levels will continue to consist of traditional, permanent buildings, while the upper levels will serve as a flexible, evolving layer. The architectural features are designed to be timeless and adaptable, allowing rooftops and the skyline to evolve with the community’s needs. This approach ensures that the city core remains architecturally flexible and receptive to new ideas.

Conclusion: By reimagining rooftops as a connected urban network, this project offers a practical solution to the city’s lack of green spaces and social hubs. Leveraging unused rooftops not only revitalizes Dhaka’s urban fabric but also aligns with both local and international urban planning strategies, paving the way for sustainable urban growth and enhanced quality of life for all citizens.

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