The Centre was created to train staff of an NGO working with people inhabiting nearby ‘chars’. It is also rented out for conferences and events.

The architect claims 'inspiration' (sic!) for the building came from the Buddhist monasteries in the area, and the exposed brickwork, stark character and quadrilateral layout, are clearly the architectural influence.
The architect claims 'inspiration' (sic!) for the building came from the Buddhist monasteries in the area, and the exposed brickwork, stark character and quadrilateral layout, are clearly the architectural influence. © Aga Khan Trust for Culture / Eric Chenal

Offices, a library, meeting rooms, prayer and tea rooms are included in pavilion-like buildings surrounded by courts and pools. Structural elements are of the local hand-made brick construction and reinforced concrete. Finishes also include timber and stone. The naturally ventilated structures have green roofs. The Centre is located in an agricultural area susceptible to flooding, earthquakes and low-bearing soil.

To prevent flooding, the Friendship Centre is built directly on the low land and the entire site is protected with an embankment which could be built and maintained for much less.
To prevent flooding, the Friendship Centre is built directly on the low land and the entire site is protected with an embankment which could be built and maintained for much less. © Aga Khan Trust for Culture / Eric Chenal
Isometric view
Isometric view © Kashef Mahboob Chowdhury
Courtyard
Courtyard © Aga Khan Trust for Culture
Section showing rain water retention and overflow drainage system
Section showing rain water retention and overflow drainage system © Kashef Mahboob Chowdhury
Floor Plan
Floor Plan: 1. Reception 2. Library 3. Office 4. Meeting Hall (by joining two training rooms) 5. Prayer Space 6. Training Room 7. Breakout Pavilion 8. Training Pavilion 9. Sitting Pavilion 10. Cha Shop 11. Store 12. Pump-Out 13. Surface Water Retention Tank 14. Grey Water Retention Tank 15. Pavilion 16. Female Dormitory 17. Dining 18. Kitchen 19. Male Dormitory 20. Male Staff Quarters 21. Female Staff Quarters 22. Family Quarters 23. Entry 24. Service Entry 25. Generator  26. Security 27. Water Purification Plant © Kashef Mahboob Chowdhury
Section
Section © Kashef Mahboob Chowdhury
© Aga Khan Trust for Culture

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