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University : Khulna University
Tutor(s) : S.M. Nazimuddin
Project Description
Old buildings, like storytellers of a town’s past, hold the magic of its unique character. Yet, many of these treasures are being forgotten, slowly fading away and losing their special tales. It’s not just about history; it’s like missing out on a chance for the town to blossom and grow. Think of railway stations, once lively and full of stories. Now, many just sit there, losing their stories and the chances for the town to thrive. If we don’t take care of these places, they might become a burden, taking away from the beauty and stories they once shared.
Khulna, the third-largest city in Bangladesh, is facing a significant challenge that stems from two interconnected issues: the neglect of its rich heritage and culture, and a noticeable shortage of public spaces.
The historical landmarks that once defined the city’s character are now abandoned, causing a gradual loss of its unique identity. Additionally, there’s a lack of spaces where people can come together and share experiences, affecting social bonds and overall well-being. Urgent action is needed to address this by preserving historical sites, creating more communal spaces, and revitalizing a sense of pride in the city’s culture. These efforts can transform Khulna into a more vibrant and inclusive urban environment, fostering a strong sense of belonging for both current and future residents.
The study identifies Khulna railway station as an ideal public space for the city. Adaptive reuse of its old buildings is proposed to revive the station and preserve its historical significance.Five buildings have been selected for reuse with contemporary functions assessing their historical value.
Khulna’s old railway station is crucial to its history. Built in 1884, a time capsule from the British era, this station was once a lifeline for the region. Now, it’s weathered and worn, surrounded by neglect. Restoring its charm could breathe life into history, drawing in travelers and preserving stories. But it’s a dance that needs everyone – leaders, businesses, and the community. The challenge? Crafting a plan that not only mends the building but also dreams of a better tomorrow for the locals.
The main objective of the design is to restore Khulna old railway station’s physical infrastructure in accordance with its original layout and historical value, creating vibrant and inclusive public spaces for the city providing modern functions and facilities of the building according to present needs.
Reviving the Khulna old railway station involves collecting data, understanding the surroundings and legal aspects, assessing the station’s condition, ensuring accessibility, and collaborating with the community. This informs a concise revival plan, considering economic and cultural possibilities for a successful transformation where memories play a key role in revitalization. The neglected station, a historic relic near a bustling market, faces accessibility challenges due to market activities. The surroundings blend commerce with nature, serving a community reliant on the adjacent market. However, the station urgently needs attention due to safety concerns from structural issues and a lack of amenities. Its historical significance and prime location offer both challenges and opportunities for potential revitalization.
The revitalization of Khulna’s old railway station blends history with modernity, transforming it into a vibrant cultural hub. The station will feature a library café, railway archives, an open-air gallery, a nostalgic cinema, and guest houses. A plaza will connect these spaces to a lively riverfront, with repurposed rail wagons serving as local-run shops. The project is managed by the railway authority with community support, using minimalist design that integrates metal structures and contemporary materials.
The indoor exhibition at the revitalized Khulna railway station will use dragono² led pulse technology to display the history and future of railway technology. This advanced system, with its 3d light projections, will showcase key railway milestones and innovations, offering an immersive, interactive experience. The technology will blend historical and futuristic content, highlighting the evolution of railways while envisioning future developments in transportation.
Once restored, the station will celebrate Khulna’s rich heritage while serving as a dynamic center for culture and community. It will host events and activities that draw locals and tourists alike, creating a space where people of all backgrounds can gather, share stories, and create lasting memories.
Established in 2012, Tamayouz Excellence Award is an unaffiliated, independent initiative that aims to advance the profession of architecture academically and professionally. Tamayouz is dedicated to supporting aspirational and transformative projects that tackle local and global challenges and that are informed by a holistic understanding of context.