Commoning Urban Lifelines

Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Planning, Dhaka

Project idea

Inhabitation with Rivers and Canals at Basila, Dhaka Western Fringe — enhancing the well-being of low-income communities in a river-edge urban setting through collaborative efforts with middle and high-income groups to bridge socioeconomic gaps.

Project description

The design research project focuses on enhancing the well-being of low-income communities in a river-edge urban setting at Basila through collaborative efforts with middle and high-income groups to bridge socioeconomic gaps, foster inclusivity, and create a harmonious urban environment that caters to the diverse needs of all communities. By facilitating dialogue, empathy, and shared ownership of the community's well-being, the aim is to create spaces that promote social interaction, cultural exchange, and mutual support. The incorporation of green spaces and accessible river edge amenities will not only improve the physical environment but also contribute to the mental and emotional well-being of communities. The participatory nature of the project fosters a sense of empowerment among all stakeholders through workshops, collaborative approaches and ongoing feedback loops. The project explores urban commoning through policy framework and trade-offs, with commoning community and collaborating community as key concepts.

Technical information

The project portrays a holistic approach to urban design that extends beyond physical infrastructure to encompass the social fabric of Basila. It emphasizes continually assessing the impact of design interventions on the well-being of the low-income group and other stakeholders to refine strategies and ensure ongoing relevance of initiatives.

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