Naungan Ark

Recurring  floods  have  persistently  displaced local communities, disrupting daily life and threatening livelihoods. In seeking a solution, we turned to the rich cultural heritage of the region, identifying the floating  market  as a central element of riverine life. Inspired by this tradition, the design integrates conventional construction techniques and materials with contemporary innovations, creating an architecture that is both functional and culturally resonant. The resulting structure sustains a vibrant market while accommodating social and cultural activities, and it doubles as a secure refuge during floods, ensuring safety, continuity, and access to essential needs for the community.

To address the community’s needs and respond effectively to recurring floods, the design is organized into three interconnected layers, each performing a specific role in ensuring resilience, functionality, and cultural continuity.

Layer 1: Adaptive Canopy System
A dynamic roof that opens for ventilation and shading during daily market activities, and closes during heavy rain or floods to provide shelter and protection.

Layer 2: Modular Core & Flexible Space
The central area consists of modular timber units that can adapt to market stalls, social gatherings, or emergency refuge, maintaining cultural vibrancy and practical utility.

Layer 3: Responsive Ground & Floating
Platforms
The foundation rises with water levels up to 1.5 meters, with safety margins to 5 meters, ensuring uninterrupted use and protection for people, goods, and infrastructure.

Together, these three layers create a resilient, functional, and culturally meaningful architecture. By integrating adaptive systems, flexible spaces, and responsive foundations, the design honors the legacy of floating markets while providing a safe and sustainable environment for the community in the face of recurring floods.