The inaugural occasion of this year’s 2A Asia Architecture Award 2015 will always be remembered for the glorious presence of Bangladesh in the arena of architecture in Asia.
Out of 613 projects submitted from all around Asia, Bangladeshi architects take out two spots including first place in Commercial category in the 2AAA , 2015.
“Loom Shade for Amber Denim at Gazipur” designed by Bangladesh’s Archeground Ltd has won the first prize in Commercial category.
On behalf of Archeground, architect Jubair Hasan received the award at a ceremony held in Turkey’s Istanbul on October 16.
The project Loom Shade for Amber Denim took its inspiration from the vernacular architecture of Bangladesh while it is modern in stylistic expression, reported contextbd.com, an online news outlet that publishes the latest news and key issues in the fields of architecture, design, technology and art.
According to the report, “the humble structure with modern amenities inside” is fabricated with the locally available materials both natural and crafted. The lily pond and vegetation around the loom shade reflects sense of place in the truest sense.
Quoting the Archeground, the report further stated: “Keeping the project cost low was a challenge which was worked out throughout its completion. As for running expenses the introduction of watrebody, bamboo screen, high ceiling and other vernacular elements substantially reduces electricity cost by eliminating the need for air conditioning and artificial lighting and makes the space cool and comfortable to work in. The main intention is ease of use and comfort.”
Another Bangladeshi project that took the attention of the honorable Jury is “Friendship Centre” designed by Kashef Mahboob Chowdhury. The project received second prize in Urban/ Rural / Landscape category.
Besides, Hill Scholte and Gerrit Schilder from Netherlands won the second prize in Public category “For the people by the people” project, which is also located in Bangladesh.
The theme for 2AAA, 2015 was “The Emergence of Contemporary Architecture in Asia.” The award recognises projects that are driven by significant design innovation supported by contextual analysis and studies and which showcased technical advancement, innovative use of material, reflection of sense of place and ecology, reflection of cultural identity.
The entries from seven categories, have been reviewed and assessed by the Jury members– Romi Khosla, Bahram Shirel, Seung H-Sang, Sinan Mert Sener, and Yavuz Selim Sepin—in presence of Ahmad Zohadi, CEO of 2A magazine and chief organiser of the award.
Based on the award criteria, each jury selected three projects from each category, and jury members discussed on their selections. Out of 145 projects, 51 were selected through this process.
The final stage judgement done by voting to the projects, and based on the numbers of votes had been received. Some projects were also selected as honorable mentions in five categories.
This year, the award has been given to 29 projects in seven different categories.
Source: Dhaka Tribune
